Ultimate BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches in Slow Cooker or Instant Pot

Create the most tender and flavorful BBQ pulled pork sandwiches using either a slow cooker or instant pot for an effortless meal.

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 hours
  • Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
  • Servings: 12 servings

Full Ingredient List

  • 3 pounds boneless pork shoulder, pork butt, or pork sirloin roast
  • 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons liquid smoke
  • 3 cups BBQ sauce (plus more for serving)
  • 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper

Pork Preparation

Tools and Equipment

  • Slow cooker
  • Instant Pot
  • Measuring cups
  • Kitchen tongs

Ingredients

Quantity Name Preparation Notes Substitutions
3 pounds boneless pork shoulder, pork butt, or pork sirloin roast Cut into large 4-inch pieces (optional)
2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons liquid smoke
3 cups BBQ sauce Plus more for serving
1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
½ teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Cut the pork roast into large 4-inch pieces, which is optional but helps it cook more evenly. (Tips: This can reduce cooking time and improve tenderness.)
  2. Step 2: Season the pork on all sides with salt and pepper. (Tips: Use coarse seasoning for better flavor infusion.)
  3. Step 3: For Slow Cooker: Place water or broth and liquid smoke into the slow cooker. Add the seasoned pork. (Tips: Ensure liquid covers most of the pork for even cooking.)
  4. Step 4: Slow Cooker Method: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 5-6 hours until fall-apart tender. (Tips: Check tenderness before stopping cooking.)
  5. Step 5: For Instant Pot: Decrease water or broth to 1 cup. Add the liquids, pork, and liquid smoke to the pressure cooker. (Tips: Make sure the lid is securely fastened and valve is set to seal.)
  6. Step 6: Instant Pot Method: Cook on high pressure for 55-60 minutes. Allow pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes or more. (Tips: Ensures even, thorough cooking and prevents dryness.)
  7. Step 7: Remove pork from cooker and discard most of the liquid, leaving about 1/4 cup. Shred the pork with forks. (Tips: The pork should shred easily if it is cooked correctly.)
  8. Step 8: Return shredded pork to the cooker and stir in BBQ sauce to heat through. (Tips: Keep on warm setting until ready to serve.)
  9. Step 9: Serve on buns with additional BBQ sauce. (Tips: Add coleslaw or cheese if desired.)

Additional Information

Notes: This dish is fantastic for meal planning; it freezes and reheats easily. If unavailable, liquid smoke can be omitted or replaced with smoked paprika.

Tags

dairy-free egg-free freezable gluten-free main dish make-ahead meal pork pressure cooker adaptable sandwiches slow cooker