Get ready to revolutionize your dinner game with the most mouthwatering, fall-apart tender pulled pork recipe that's about to become your new obsession! Imagine succulent pork infused with the sweet, caramel-like notes of Dr Pepper, slow-cooked to perfection in an Instant Pot, creating a dish so incredibly delicious that your family and friends will be begging for seconds. This isn't just another pulled pork recipe - it's a culinary experience that transforms an ordinary meal into an extraordinary feast that will have everyone asking, "What's your secret?"
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 70 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 pounds pork shoulder
- 1 can Dr Pepper
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut into large 3-4 inch chunks to ensure even cooking.
- Season the pork chunks generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, ensuring all sides are well-coated.
- Place the seasoned pork chunks into the Instant Pot inner pot.
- Pour the entire can of Dr Pepper over the pork, ensuring the meat is partially submerged.
- Add Worcestershire sauce to the liquid for additional depth of flavor.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to sealing position, and select Manual/Pressure Cook on High Pressure for 60 minutes.
- Once cooking is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 15 minutes, then carefully do a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Remove the pork from the Instant Pot and place on a cutting board. Shred the meat using two forks, discarding any large fat pieces.
- Drain most of the cooking liquid, reserving about 1/2 cup for moisture.
- Mix the shredded pork with barbecue sauce, ensuring even coating.
- Serve hot on buns, in tacos, or as desired. Garnish with additional barbecue sauce if preferred.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Always use pork shoulder (also called pork butt) for the most tender and flavorful result. The marbling ensures juicy meat that shreds beautifully.
- Chunk Size Matters: Cut your pork into consistent 3-4 inch chunks to guarantee even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
- Seasoning is Key: Don't be shy with your salt, pepper, and garlic powder. A generous coating ensures deep flavor throughout the meat.
- Natural Pressure Release: Allow at least 15 minutes of natural pressure release to help the meat become extra tender and retain its moisture.
- Sauce Strategically: Mix barbecue sauce gradually to control the moisture and flavor intensity. You can always add more, but you can't take it away!
- Make Ahead Friendly: This pulled pork tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare it in advance and reheat gently.
- Versatility Wins: Use this pulled pork in sandwiches, tacos, nachos, or even as a topping for loaded baked potatoes for maximum culinary creativity!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 120mg
