Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches: 5 Steps to Deliciousness

October 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Let me tell you, making instant pot pulled pork sandwiches is an absolute game-changer! Seriously, if you’re looking for a quick dinner that’s hearty and full of flavor, this is the recipe for you. I love how the instant pot does all the heavy lifting, transforming a simple pork shoulder into tender, juicy goodness in no time. The first time I made these, my family couldn’t get enough, and the aroma that fills the kitchen is just divine. Trust me, once you get a taste of that rich barbecue sauce and perfectly seasoned pork on a soft bun, you’ll want to make this again and again!

instant pot pulled pork sandwiches - detail 1

Ingredients for Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Gathering the right ingredients makes all the difference! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these mouthwatering sandwiches:

3 lbs pork shoulder: Look for a well-marbled cut; it’s perfect for shredding and will give you that juicy texture we all love.
1 cup barbecue sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade version for that lip-smacking flavor. Trust me, it makes all the difference!
1 cup chicken broth: This adds moisture and depth to the dish. You can also use vegetable broth if that’s what you have on hand.
1 onion, sliced: A sweet onion works great here, adding a lovely flavor as it cooks down.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic punch. You can never have too much garlic, right?
1 tablespoon paprika: This gives the pork a beautiful color and a hint of smoky flavor.
1 teaspoon cumin: Adds an earthy warmth that complements the barbecue sauce perfectly.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors in your dish.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A little kick to balance the sweetness of the sauce.
8 hamburger buns: Choose soft, fresh buns to soak up all that delicious sauce and hold the pork nicely.

With these ingredients ready to go, you’ll be on your way to creating a sandwich that’s not just filling, but also bursting with flavor!

How to Prepare Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part! I promise, making these instant pot pulled pork sandwiches is a breeze. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!

Season the Pork

First things first, let’s season that pork shoulder! I like to sprinkle the paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper all over the meat, making sure to coat every side evenly. It really amps up the flavor! Don’t be shy—get in there and rub those spices into the pork. This little step goes a long way in making your pulled pork super tasty!

Sauté the Pork

Next, it’s time to fire up the instant pot! Set it to sauté mode and let it heat up. Once it’s nice and hot, carefully add the seasoned pork shoulder. You want to brown it on all sides, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. This step is crucial because it locks in those delicious juices and gives the pork a beautiful color. Trust me, the little caramelization makes a world of difference!

Add Aromatics and Sauces

Now for the best part—adding the aromatics! Toss in the sliced onion and minced garlic, sautéing them for about 2 minutes until they’re fragrant and just starting to soften. Oh, the smell is heavenly! Then, pour in the chicken broth and barbecue sauce, making sure to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Those bits are flavor gold! You’ll love how everything comes together.

Pressure Cook the Pork

Time to seal the deal! Close the instant pot lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 60 minutes. Don’t forget to make sure the steam release valve is in the sealing position. After the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before switching to quick release for any remaining steam. This helps the pork stay juicy and tender—so don’t skip this step!

Shred and Serve

Once the pressure has released, carefully remove the lid and take a moment to admire your handiwork. The pork should be fall-apart tender! Use two forks to shred the pork right in the pot, mixing it with all those tasty juices. Serve it on those soft hamburger buns, and if you’re like me, don’t hesitate to drizzle on some extra barbecue sauce. Wow, your taste buds are in for a treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With the instant pot, you can have tender pulled pork ready in just over an hour, perfect for those busy weeknights!
Flavorful Results: The combination of spices and barbecue sauce creates a rich, mouthwatering flavor that’s hard to resist.
Easy Cleanup: One pot means less mess! You can focus on enjoying your meal instead of doing a mountain of dishes.
Versatile Serving: These sandwiches are great for casual dinners, game day, or even a barbecue with friends—everyone loves a good pulled pork sandwich!
Customizable: Feel free to tweak the spices or sauces to suit your taste; this recipe is a great base for your culinary creativity!
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love digging into these delicious sandwiches, making it a fantastic choice for family meals.

Tips for Success with Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches

To make sure your instant pot pulled pork sandwiches turn out absolutely perfect, I’ve got some tried-and-true tips for you. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will help you avoid any hiccups along the way!

Choose the Right Cut: Always go for a well-marbled pork shoulder. The fat helps keep the meat moist and tender during cooking, which is key for that melt-in-your-mouth texture!
Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning! Make sure to cover the pork thoroughly with the spices. This is where all the flavor comes from, so really rub it in!
Don’t Rush the Pressure Release: Letting the pressure release naturally for at least 10 minutes helps the pork retain its juices. If you rush it, you might end up with drier meat, and nobody wants that!
Use a Meat Thermometer: If you’re unsure about doneness, a meat thermometer is your best friend. Aim for an internal temperature of at least 190°F for easy shredding. It’s a simple way to ensure perfect results every time!
Mix It Up: Feel free to play around with different barbecue sauces! You can even add a splash of apple cider vinegar or honey to the sauce for a sweet and tangy twist.
Store Properly: If you have leftovers (which you probably won’t, but just in case!), store the pulled pork in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay good for about 3-4 days. Reheat gently to keep it tender!

With these tips up your sleeve, you’re well on your way to making the most delicious pulled pork sandwiches ever. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying delicious instant pot pulled pork sandwiches, it’s always good to keep an eye on the nutrition. Here’s a general idea of what you can expect per sandwich:

Calories: 400
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 100mg

Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. This information is an estimate and not provided precisely, so feel free to adjust based on your preferences or dietary needs!

FAQ about Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Can I use a different cut of meat?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is my go-to for its tenderness, you can also use pork butt or even a boneless pork roast. Just keep in mind that the cooking time might vary slightly, so adjust accordingly.

What if I don’t have barbecue sauce?
No worries! You can make a simple sauce by mixing ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and your favorite spices. Or, try using a dry rub and serve the pulled pork with a vinegar-based sauce on the side. It’ll still be delicious!

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the pulled pork a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to keep it moist.

What are some great toppings for my pulled pork sandwiches?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! I love adding coleslaw for crunch, pickles for tang, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick. You could also top it with cheese or avocado for a creamy twist. Get creative!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

After enjoying those tasty instant pot pulled pork sandwiches, you might find yourself with some delicious leftovers. No worries, I’ve got you covered on how to store and reheat them so they stay just as scrumptious as the first time around!

To store any leftover pulled pork, simply transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up to avoid any condensation buildup. You can keep the pulled pork in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you want to save it for later, it freezes beautifully! Just portion it out into freezer-safe bags or containers, and it’ll be good for up to 2-3 months. Don’t forget to label them with the date!

When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is a breeze. For the best results, I recommend using the stove. Simply place the pulled pork in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through. If you’re short on time, you can also pop it in the microwave—just cover it with a lid or microwave-safe wrap to prevent splatters. Heat it in short intervals, stirring in between, until it’s warmed to your liking.

And there you go! With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor those delicious pulled pork sandwiches all over again. Enjoy every bite!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.