Instant Pot Root Beer Pulled Pork

Name: Instant Pot Root Beer Pulled Pork
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 125 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 2 teaspoons onion powder; 1 tablespoon kosher salt; 2 teaspoons black pepper; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 3 pounds boneless pork shoulder (cut into 6 pieces); 1 cup diced white onion; 12 ounces root beer; 3 tablespoons white vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional); 1 cup barbecue sauce; 1/2 cup root beer

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Tender Instant Pot root beer pulled pork is made entirely in the electric pressure cooker! This flavorful shredded pork makes a great barbecue sandwich.

Instant Pot root beer pulled pork on a brioche bun.

Instant Pot root beer pulled pork is a simple but delicious recipe! This quick prep recipe takes just minutes to get into the Instant Pot.

The pork is incredibly tender and has lots of flavor. It makes great sandwiches, but don't stop there! Mix it into mac and cheese or use it to make pulled pork pizza.

Ingredients

Garlic powder: Be sure to use garlic powder, not salt.
Onion powder: Make sure you use onion powder, not onion salt.
Kosher salt: If using table salt, use half the amount of salt.
Black pepper
Smoked paprika
Pork shoulder: A boneless pork butt also works.
Onion: Yellow or white onion works well.
Root beer: The root beer helps to make the pork tender and adds flavor.
Vinegar: The vinegar helps to make the pork tender and the acidity adds balance.
Liquid smoke: Liquid smoke adds a bit of smokiness to the pork. It's optional but tasty.
Barbecue sauce: Choose a barbecue sauce that you like.

How to make Instant Pot root beer pulled pork

Step 1: Combine the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika in a small bowl.

Step 2: Add the pork pieces to the Instant Pot inner pot.

Step 3: Rub the pork with the seasoning mix.

Step 4: Add the onion around the pork pieces.

Step 5: Pour the 12 ounces of root beer, vinegar, and liquid smoke, if using, around the root beer into the inner pot.

Step 6: Close and lock the lid. Make sure that the pressure release valve is set to sealing. Press manual high pressure and adjust the cooking time to 90 minutes.

Step 7: Once the cooking time has ended, let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes. Then turn the pressure release valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.

Step 8: Remove the pork from the inner pot and shred.

Step 9: Drain the cooking liquid, reserving 1 cup.

Shredded pulled pork with barbecue sauce in an instant pot inner pot.

Step 10: Add the shredded pork back into the inner pot along with the cup of reserved cooking liquid. Pour in the barbecue sauce and ½ cup root beer. Stir to combine. Additional barbecue sauce or root beer to taste.

A root beer pulled pork sandwich on a white plate.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use diet soda?

You can! Diet soda or regular soda will work in this recipe.

Can I use a different type of soda?

Sure! Coke, Dr Pepper, or Pepsi all work well.

Can I add some heat?

Absolutely! Adding some chili powder to the spice mixture and using a spicy barbecue sauce are easy ways to add some heat.

A plate of root beer pulled pork next to a kitchen linen.

Serving suggestions

Pulled pork makes a great sandwich! Add some coleslaw on top of the pulled pork or served alongside for an easy and delicious meal.

Storage

Any leftover pulled pork should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pulled pork will keep for up to 4 days when properly stored in the fridge.

More Instant Pot pork recipes!

If you’ve tried this Instant Pot root beer pulled pork recipe, don’t forget to rate the recipe and leave me a comment below. I love to hear from people who’ve made my recipes!

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