The moment I unsealed my Instant Pot, a wave of anticipation washed over me. The rich aroma of spices filled the kitchen as I prepared to transform a humble pork shoulder into something divine. This is not just any recipe—this Instant Pot Pork Shoulder promises succulent, tender meat that practically melts in your mouth, all while cutting out the hours typically needed for a slow-cooked feast.
Imagine serving it as pulled pork for a cozy family gathering or slicing it for elegant sandwiches—it’s versatile, freezer-friendly, and gluten-free! Whether you’re fatigued by fast food or simply seeking an effortless, flavorful meal, this recipe is the solution you’ve been looking for. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into a dish that’s designed for flavor and ease, making the ordinary extraordinary!
Why will you love Instant Pot Pork Shoulder?
Ease of Preparation: This recipe is as simple as it gets—just a few ingredients and an Instant Pot do all the work!
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Tenderness: The pressure cooking method ensures your pork shoulder comes out incredibly tender, easily shreddable or sliceable for any occasion.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as pulled pork, in sandwiches, or over rice; the options are endless!
Healthy Choice: Gluten-free and dairy-free, it caters to various dietary preferences while being full of flavor.
Time-Saving Wonder: Cook up deliciousness in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods, leaving you more time to enjoy with family and friends.
You’ll be impressed with the flavor and tenderness—perfect for thrilling meals any night!
Instant Pot Pork Shoulder Ingredients
• Create the ultimate flavor with these key components!
For the Spice Rub
• Yellow Onion – Aromatic base; can be substituted with shallots for a milder flavor.
• Garlic – Adds depth; substitute with garlic powder, using 1 teaspoon for every clove.
• Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and enhances caramelization; use maple sugar or honey as a substitute.
• Chili Powder – Offers heat and flavor; can be replaced with smoked paprika for a smoky taste.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances overall flavor; feel free to use sea salt or table salt, adjusting amounts as needed.
• Ground Cumin – Adds earthiness; substitute with coriander for a different flavor profile.
• Ground Cinnamon – Provides warmth; omit for less sweetness.
For Cooking the Pork
• Olive Oil – Cooking fat for sautéing; can be replaced with vegetable oil or avocado oil.
• Pork Shoulder (4.5 to 5 pounds) – The main protein for shredding or slicing; pork butt is a common interchangeable cut.
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth or Water – Liquid for cooking; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
Optional for Serving
• Tomato-based Barbecue Sauce – Perfect for pulled BBQ sandwiches; use homemade or store-bought, depending on your preference.
Dive into this Instant Pot Pork Shoulder recipe, and watch how easily it transforms into a scrumptiously tender dish your whole family will adore!
How to Make Instant Pot Pork Shoulder
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Slice the yellow onion into about 1 1/2 cups and chop the garlic into small pieces. These aromatic bases will bring life to your dish!
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Combine the spice rub by mixing brown sugar, chili powder, kosher salt, ground cumin, and ground cinnamon in a bowl. This blend adds lovely warmth and depth of flavor.
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Heat the olive oil in the Instant Pot on Sauté mode. Cook the chopped onions and garlic until softened, about 4 minutes. Enjoy the fragrant aroma swirling around your kitchen!
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Prepare the pork shoulder: cut it into 4 pieces and pat dry with paper towels. Next, rub the spice mixture generously over the pork ensuring each piece is coated richly.
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Add low-sodium chicken broth or water to the pot. Layer the seasoned pork on top of the sautéed onions, and turn off the Sauté mode.
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Seal the lid and cook on HIGH pressure for 60 minutes. Afterward, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully quick release the remaining pressure.
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Transfer the cooked pork to a cutting board; discard the bone if present. Now, either shred or slice the pork as desired—it’s up to you!
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If making pulled pork, strain the cooking liquid, skim off any fat, and toss the meat with the flavorful cooking liquid or some tomato-based barbecue sauce for that extra zing.
Optional: Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added color and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Pork Shoulder
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Drying the Meat: Pat the pork dry before seasoning to ensure better browning and flavor absorption, avoiding a soggy texture.
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Spice Hotness: For those who enjoy a little kick, consider adding cayenne pepper to the spice mix for an extra layer of heat.
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Fat Skimming: Skim the fat from the cooking liquid after pressure cooking for a leaner dish, which helps in making it healthier without compromising flavor.
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Slicing Technique: Always slice the pork against the grain for more tender bites; when pulled, use forks to shred for the best texture.
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Broth Choices: Customize your dish by using low-sodium broth or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version, keeping it gluten-free and delicious!
These tips will help you master the art of crafting a perfect Instant Pot Pork Shoulder that will impress your family and friends!
Make Ahead Options
These Instant Pot Pork Shoulder preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to streamline meal planning! You can season the pork up to 24 hours in advance; simply rub the spice mixture on the pork shoulder, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. The sautéed onions and garlic can also be made ahead—just store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious meal, simply layer the pork and aromatics in the Instant Pot, add the broth, and cook as directed. This way, you’ll savor the same tender, mouthwatering results with less fuss on the day you serve it!
What to Serve with Instant Pot Pork Shoulder?
Creating a well-rounded meal enhances the joy of sharing flavors with loved ones. Picture the delightful aroma of your tender pork shoulder mingling with these perfect accompaniments.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A crisp and tangy slaw offers a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the rich, savory pork. It’s the perfect way to balance the flavors on your plate.
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Garlic Bread: Buttery, golden garlic bread is an inviting addition that soaks up any barbecue sauce or juices, making each bite an indulgent treat.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn with a hint of smokiness complements the tender pork while adding vibrant color to your meal. It’s a classic summer delight!
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes brings depth to your dish, while their soft texture contrasts nicely with the pork’s heartiness.
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Pickled Vegetables: Tangy, pickled veggies add a delightful zing, cutting through the richness of the pork and offering a burst of freshness with each bite.
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Cornbread Muffins: Warm, buttery cornbread muffins are a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with pulled pork sandwiches, enhancing that Southern cuisine feel.
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Craft Beer or Iced Tea: A refreshing craft beer or a chilled glass of sweet iced tea adds a touch of relaxation to your meal, making it a perfect family gathering experience.
Whatever you choose to serve, these combinations will elevate your dining experience and have everyone asking for seconds!
How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Pork Shoulder
Fridge: Store any leftover Instant Pot Pork Shoulder in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This ensures the meat stays fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pork in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Make sure to label it with the date for easy tracking.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This helps retain moisture and texture in your leftovers.
Reheating: To reheat, place the pork in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water, covering it to steam until heated through. Alternatively, use the microwave in short intervals, adding moisture to avoid dryness.
Instant Pot Pork Shoulder Variations
You can easily customize this delightful pork shoulder recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs. Let’s get creative and elevate your culinary experience!
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Dairy-Free: Replace any butter or dairy-based sauces with coconut cream or olive oil for a creamy touch without the dairy.
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Heat It Up: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to your spice rub for a zesty kick that tantalizes your taste buds.
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Smoky Flavor: Substitute chili powder with smoked paprika and throw in some liquid smoke for a barbecue flavor that’s downright irresistible.
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Herb Infusion: Swap in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme in the spice mixture for an aromatic twist that’ll elevate the dish beautifully.
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Sweet & Spicy: Mix honey or maple syrup into your barbecue sauce for a delectable balance of sweetness and heat in a pulled pork sandwich.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in chopped bell peppers or carrots into the Instant Pot alongside the onions to enhance texture and add natural sweetness to the dish.
With these variations, you’ll discover fun ways to make this tender Instant Pot Pork Shoulder your own, delighting your family and friends every time!
Instant Pot Pork Shoulder Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose a pork shoulder?
Absolutely! When selecting your pork shoulder, look for well-marbled meat with a pinkish-red color and minimal dark spots. The fat is your friend; it renders down during cooking, ensuring juicy, tender meat. The weight should be around 4.5 to 5 pounds for optimal cooking time in the Instant Pot.
How should I store leftover Instant Pot Pork Shoulder?
You can refrigerate your leftover pork shoulder in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Just make sure it’s completely cooled down before sealing it up to maintain freshness. If you plan to keep it longer, freezing is your best bet!
Can I freeze my cooked pork shoulder? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your cooked Instant Pot Pork Shoulder, allow it to cool completely. Then, place the shredded or sliced pork in a freezer-safe container or bag, remove as much air as possible, and seal tightly. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What are some common issues when making Instant Pot Pork Shoulder?
One common issue is ending up with dry meat, often caused by overcooking. To avoid this, always follow the cooking time specified in the recipe. If the meat does come out dry, you can mix it with the cooking liquid, which adds flavor and moisture back into the meat. Also, remember to sear your pork shoulder well before pressure cooking to enhance the rich flavors!
Is Instant Pot Pork Shoulder suitable for special diets?
Yes! This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free, perfect for those with dietary restrictions. However, always double-check labels on your broth and any sauces you might add to ensure they meet your dietary needs. If you’re cooking for pets, be sure to consult your veterinarian about any specific ingredients before sharing!
Tender Instant Pot Pork Shoulder for Flavorful Weeknight Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice the yellow onion into about 1 1/2 cups and chop the garlic into small pieces.
- Combine the spice rub by mixing brown sugar, chili powder, kosher salt, ground cumin, and ground cinnamon in a bowl.
- Heat the olive oil in the Instant Pot on Sauté mode. Cook the chopped onions and garlic until softened, about 4 minutes.
- Prepare the pork shoulder: cut it into 4 pieces and pat dry with paper towels. Rub the spice mixture generously over the pork.
- Add low-sodium chicken broth or water to the pot. Layer the seasoned pork on top of the sautéed onions, and turn off the Sauté mode.
- Seal the lid and cook on HIGH pressure for 60 minutes. Afterward, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully quick release the remaining pressure.
- Transfer the cooked pork to a cutting board; discard the bone if present. Shred or slice the pork as desired.
- If making pulled pork, strain the cooking liquid, skim off any fat, and toss the meat with the flavorful cooking liquid or BBQ sauce.