Juicy, tender pulled pork infused with smoky BBQ flavors is just over an hour away with this Instant Pot recipe. The pork cooks to perfection in a fraction of the time, soaking up a rich, tangy-sweet sauce that’s irresistible. Each bite delivers a melt-in-your-mouth texture, balanced by the slight crunch of a toasted bun. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy as it is delicious.
With just 5 minutes of prep, you’ll have a hearty, protein-packed meal ready to serve. The bold BBQ aroma fills your kitchen, promising a feast of smoky, savory, and subtly sweet flavors. Pair it with your favorite coleslaw or pickles for a satisfying contrast. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, these sandwiches are sure to impress without keeping you tied to the kitchen.
Ingredients for Smoky BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
- 3 pounds pork roast (shoulder or butt works best for tenderness)
- 3 Tablespoons smoked paprika (adds a rich, smoky flavor)
- 1 Tablespoon salt (adjust to taste if using a salty BBQ sauce)
- 1 Tablespoon pepper (freshly ground preferred)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or substitute with fresh minced garlic)
- ⅓ cup liquid smoke (optional, but enhances smokiness)
- 18 ounces BBQ sauce (any variety, store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup water (only for Instant Pot; omit for slow cooker)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Instant Pot: Plug in your Instant Pot and turn it on.
- Add Ingredients: Place the pork roast in the bottom of the Instant Pot. Sprinkle with smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Pour in the liquid smoke, BBQ sauce, and water.
- Seal and Cook: Secure the lid and turn the knob to “sealing.” Select the “Manual” setting and set the timer for 60 minutes.
- Natural Release: Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for at least 10 minutes. Carefully remove the lid.
- Check Tenderness: If the pork is too tough to shred, reseal the lid and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Shred and Serve: Use two forks to shred the pork directly in the pot. Mix well with the sauce. Serve on buns for delicious pulled pork sandwiches.
- Slow Cooker Option: If using a slow cooker, add all ingredients (except water) and cook on low for 8-10 hours. Shred and serve as directed.
Delicious Sauce and Topping Ideas
Elevate your pulled pork sandwiches with creative sauces and toppings! Try adding a tangy coleslaw for a refreshing crunch, or drizzle extra BBQ sauce for a saucy finish. For a spicy kick, mix in some chipotle mayo or top with pickled jalapeños. Don’t forget classic options like pickles or caramelized onions for added flavor depth.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
Serve your smoky BBQ pulled pork sandwiches with classic sides like corn on the cob, baked beans, or potato salad. For a lighter option, pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. These sandwiches also make a great addition to game-day spreads or backyard barbecues!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm it in a skillet with a splash of water or BBQ sauce to keep it moist, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. Perfect for quick meals later in the week!
Recipe Variations to Try
Switch things up by using chicken thighs or beef brisket instead of pork. For a sweeter twist, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a drizzle of honey to the BBQ sauce. You can also experiment with different spice blends, like adding cayenne pepper for extra heat or cumin for a smoky depth.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
To save time, prep your pork roast the night before by seasoning it and storing it in the fridge. If using a slow cooker, set it up in the morning for an easy dinner. For even faster shredding, use a hand mixer on low speed to break apart the pork after cooking—just be careful not to overmix!
Instant Pot Smoky BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches Recipe
Equipment
- Instant Pot
Ingredients
- 3 pounds pork roast
- 3 Tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 Tablespoon salt
- 1 Tablespoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ⅓ cup liquid smoke
- 18 ounces BBQ Sauce one bottle, any variety
- ½ cup water
Instructions
- Plug in Instant Pot and turn on.
- Add pork roast to bottom of Instant Pot, then add paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, liquid smoke, barbeque sauce, and water.
- Twist lid on and turn lid knob to “sealing” not “venting.”
- Click “Manual” and set timer for 60 minutes.
- Let release for at least 10 minutes, then remove lid.
- If pork is too tough to shred, twist lid back on and cook longer as needed.
- Pick roast up with forks, shred, and serve on buns.
- Add ingredients to slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours. (You do not need to add ½ cup water to the slow cooker.)