“Discover the ultimate convenience of cooking a succulent pork roast in the Instant Pot. Unlocking tender, juicy flavors in record time, this effortless method will revolutionize your culinary experience. Elevate your meals with perfectly cooked pork roast that’s meltingly tender and packed with mouthwatering aromas. Unleash the full potential of your Instant Pot and savor an unforgettable dining experience.”
Easy Instant Pot Pork Roast Recipe
This Instant Pot Pork Roast Recipe is a simple way to cook a flavorful and tender pork roast in a fraction of the time. The Instant Pot is an incredible tool in the kitchen for making dishes that usually take a long time, and it can drastically cut down the cooking time for dishes like this tender pork roast. Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes and gravy, roasted cauliflower, green beans, or crispy roast potatoes, this pork roast is versatile and pairs well with any side dish.
There are a few different cuts of pork that make a good pork roast, such as pork shoulder (also called pork butt), pork leg, or loin. For a sliceable roast, I typically use pork leg. It’s important to remove the skin and fat cap before cooking in the Instant Pot to avoid burning. I also recommend using a dry rub on the pork for added flavor. Searing the pork before pressure cooking gives it a nice browned crust.
The cooking time will vary depending on the size of your roast. For a boneless 3 lb roast, it is recommended to cook for 45 minutes in the Instant Pot for a sliceable roast. If you prefer a fork-tender, shredded pork texture, cook for 60 to 70 minutes. After cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally before slicing or shredding the meat. You can also make gravy from the flavorful broth left over in the Instant Pot by thickening it with cornstarch.
Why Use An Instant Pot
The Instant Pot is an incredibly useful kitchen appliance because it drastically cuts down on cooking time for a variety of dishes. It is especially great for making tender and flavorful pork roasts in a fraction of the time compared to traditional cooking methods.
One of the main advantages of using an Instant Pot is its ability to develop flavors quickly in soups, stews, and roasts. The pressure cooker function allows for faster cooking times while still infusing the meat with delicious flavors.
Additionally, the Instant Pot is versatile and can be used for a wide range of recipes. It can cook tough cuts of meat until they are tender, bake cheesecakes, and even steam vegetables. This makes it a valuable tool in any kitchen.
Which Cut of Pork to Use
When cooking a pork roast in the Instant Pot, there are several cuts of pork that work well. Pork shoulder, also known as pork butt, is a popular choice for slow-cooked dishes like carnitas or pulled pork. It is marbled and tender, making it easy to shred. For a pork roast that can be sliced and served with side dishes, pork leg is a good option. It typically weighs around 2-4 lbs and fits nicely in a 6-8 qt Instant Pot. Pork loin is another lean cut of meat that cooks faster in the Instant Pot, but it can quickly become dry if overcooked.
Overall, the choice of cut depends on your preference for texture and cooking time. Pork shoulder is great for shredding, while pork leg and loin are better for slicing. Consider the size of your roast and the number of people you’re serving when selecting the cut.
Pork Shoulder
Pork shoulder, also known as pork butt, is a great cut of meat for cooking in the Instant Pot. It is marbled with fat, which helps to keep the meat moist and tender during the cooking process. Pork shoulder is often used for pulled pork or carnitas recipes, as it easily falls apart when cooked slowly. In the Instant Pot, you can achieve the same tender results in a fraction of the time.
To cook a pork shoulder roast in the Instant Pot, start by removing any string netting or packaging from the meat. Trim off any excess fat or skin, but leave a little for added flavor and moisture. Rub the pork shoulder with your favorite dry rub or seasoning blend, making sure to coat all sides of the meat.
Next, sear the pork shoulder on all sides using the sauté function on your Instant Pot. This will help to develop a nice crust and enhance the flavors of the meat. Once seared, remove the pork shoulder from the pot and set it aside.
Pork Leg
Pork leg is a great cut of meat to use for a pork roast in the Instant Pot. It is usually sold in roasts weighing around 2-4 lbs, which fit nicely in a 6-8 qt Instant Pot and can feed around 4-8 people. Pork leg turns out as one large piece of meat, making it ideal for slicing and serving with side dishes.
When cooking a pork leg roast in the Instant Pot, it is recommended to cook it for 15 minutes per pound. For example, a 3 lb pork leg roast would require cooking for approximately 45 minutes. This cooking time will result in a sliceable roast that is not overly tender or falling apart.
If you prefer a fork-tender roast that falls apart like shredded pork, you will need to cook it for longer, typically around 60 to 70 minutes. In this case, it is also recommended to place the roast directly into the pot without using a trivet.
Pork Loin
Pork loin is the leanest cut of meat and doesn’t have much fat. It’s also usually sold in smaller roasts that are thinner. Thus, a pork loin will cook a lot faster in the Instant Pot. Overcooking can quickly lead to dry pork. That’s why I mostly avoid this cut. On a side note, if you’re looking for high-quality ground beef and meat, check out Butcher Box. It’s a subscription meat box with 100% grass-fed beef, free-range, organic chicken, heritage breed pork, and wild-caught Alaskan salmon. All the meat is humanely raised and never given antibiotics or added hormones ever.
Ingredients You Need
To make this Instant Pot Pork Roast, you will need the following ingredients:
- Pork roast (3 lbs)
- Dry rub seasoning
- Olive oil
- Beef or chicken broth (for deglazing and making gravy)
- Cornstarch (for thickening the gravy)
These simple ingredients will help you create a flavorful and tender pork roast in the Instant Pot.
Thermapen ONE (read our review)
The Thermapen ONE is a highly accurate and reliable instant-read thermometer that is perfect for checking the internal temperature of your pork roast. With a read time of one second or less and an accuracy of ± 0.5°, you can be confident that your meat will be cooked to perfection every time.
Not only does the Thermapen ONE provide quick and accurate temperature readings, but it also comes with a 5-year warranty, ensuring that you can rely on it for years to come. The auto-rotate display and motion-sensing feature make it easy to use, while the insanely long battery life of up to 2000 hours means you won’t have to worry about replacing batteries frequently.
Whether you’re cooking a sliceable roast or a fork tender roast, the Thermapen ONE will help you achieve the perfect level of doneness. Simply insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat and wait for the reading. With its high level of accuracy, you can ensure that your pork roast reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees F for a safe and delicious meal.
Preparing the Pork Roast
Before cooking the pork roast in the Instant Pot, it’s important to prepare the meat properly. Start by removing any string netting or ties that may be wrapped around the roast. This will allow for even cooking and easier slicing later on.
If there is a large fat cap or skin on the roast, it’s recommended to remove them before cooking in the Instant Pot. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut away the skin and excess fat, taking care not to cut into the meat itself. Leaving a thin layer of fat can help keep the pork moist and add flavor.
Applying a Dry Rub
Before cooking the pork roast in the Instant Pot, it’s important to apply a dry rub to enhance the flavor. The author recommends using their dry rub recipe, which can be found on their website. For a 3 lb pork roast, they suggest using half of the amount called for in the recipe and generously coating the pork with it. Make sure to pat the pork dry before applying the rub and get it into all the little nooks. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
To achieve a nice browned and flavorful crust on the pork roast, it should be seared on all sides before pressure cooking. Heat olive oil in the Instant Pot on saute mode and sear each side of the pork for about 3 minutes. Be cautious not to let the dry rub burn on the bottom of the pot. If necessary, remove the roast temporarily and add more oil to prevent burning. Once mostly browned, turn off saute mode as residual heat will continue to finish searing.
After searing, there will be browned bits stuck to the bottom of the Instant Pot. Add broth to deglaze these bits and create a flavorful base for gravy later on. Use a whisk to scrape up all those tasty bits from sauteing. Then place a trivet inside the pot – this is optional but recommended as it helps keep the roast whole and allows for steaming rather than boiling during pressure cooking.
The cooking time for a boneless pork roast in an Instant Pot depends on its weight. The general recommendation is 15 minutes per pound of meat. For example, a 3 lb roast would require 45 minutes of cooking time. Cooking it for this duration will result in a sliceable roast, rather than a fork-tender one. However, if you prefer the meat to be falling apart like shredded pork, you can cook it for 60 to 70 minutes instead.
After the pressure cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes before manually releasing the rest. The internal temperature of the pork should reach 160 degrees F for safe consumption. If it’s undercooked, simply turn on the Instant Pot for an additional 5 or 10 minutes. Let the pork rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving with potatoes, carrots, or mashed potatoes. To make gravy, use the flavorful broth left over in the Instant Pot by thickening it with a cornstarch slurry.
How to Make a Pork Roast in the Instant Pot
To make a pork roast in the Instant Pot, start by choosing a cut of pork such as pork shoulder, pork leg, or pork loin. Remove any string netting and excess fat from the roast. Season the roast with a dry rub and let it sit for about 5 minutes.
Next, sear the pork on all sides in the Instant Pot using the saute mode. This will give it a nice browned crust. Remove the pork from the pot and turn off saute mode.
Add broth to the pot and use a whisk to scrape up any browned bits on the bottom. Place a trivet in the pot and place the roast on top of it. Close the Instant Pot and set it to pressure cook (or manual) for 15 minutes per pound of meat. For example, if you have a 3 lb roast, cook it for 45 minutes for a sliceable roast or 60-70 minutes for a fork-tender, shredded pork.
After cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure. Check that the internal temperature of the roast is at least 160 degrees F using a meat thermometer.
Remove the pork from the Instant Pot and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving on a platter. If desired, you can make gravy from the leftover broth in the pot by adding cornstarch slurry and simmering until thickened.
1. Sear the Pork
1. Sear the Pork: To add flavor and create a nice crust on the pork roast, start by searing it on all sides in the Instant Pot on saute mode. Use olive oil and let it brown for about 3 minutes per side. Remove the pork from the pot once it’s browned.
2. Remove Skin and Fat Cap: Since the Instant Pot doesn’t allow for the fat to render and skin to crisp up like in the oven, it’s best to remove the skin and fat cap before cooking. Carefully cut them away from the meat, being careful not to cut into the meat itself.
3. Apply Dry Rub: Coat the pork roast with a dry rub mixture for added flavor. You can use a recipe like the one provided in this article or your own favorite dry rub recipe. Make sure to pat the pork dry before applying the rub and get it into all the nooks of the meat.
4. Add Liquid and Scrape Browned Bits: After searing, add broth to deglaze the pot and scrape up any browned bits from searing. This adds great flavor to the broth, which will be used later for making gravy.
5. Cook with Trivet: Place a trivet in the Instant Pot and place the roast on top of it. This helps keep the roast whole and steams it rather than boiling it. If desired, you can skip using a trivet, but using one gives a nicer presentation.
6. Set Pressure Cook Time: Close the Instant Pot and set it to pressure cook or manual mode, depending on your model. The cooking time will vary based on the size of your roast. For example, a boneless pork roast should be cooked for 15 minutes per pound in an Instant Pot.
7. Natural Release Pressure: Once cooking time is complete, allow for natural release of pressure for 15 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure. Check the internal temperature of the pork roast to ensure it has reached 160 degrees F.
8. Rest and Slice: Remove the pork roast from the Instant Pot and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. You can either slice it into pieces or serve it whole on a platter to be sliced at the table.
9. Make Gravy: If desired, use the flavorful broth left in the Instant Pot to make gravy. Strain off any excess fat and turn on saute mode again. Once boiling, add a slurry of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the gravy.
10. Serve with Sides: Serve your cooked pork roast with your choice of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted cauliflower, green beans, or crispy roast potatoes. Pour the gravy over the top to finish off the dish.
By following these steps, you can easily cook a flavorful and tender pork roast in a fraction of the time using an Instant Pot.
2. Cooking the Pork Roast
When cooking a pork roast in the Instant Pot, it is recommended to cook a boneless roast for 15 minutes per pound. For example, a 3 lb roast would require 45 minutes of cooking time. This cooking time will result in a sliceable roast rather than a fork tender one.
To ensure that the pork roast is cooked to the proper doneness, it is important to check its internal temperature. The desired temperature for pork is 160 degrees F. If the roast has not reached this temperature, it can be turned back on for an additional 5 or 10 minutes of cooking time.
Searing the outside of the pork roast before pressure cooking adds flavor and helps to create a flavorful broth. To sear the roast, heat olive oil in the Instant Pot on sauté mode and brown the meat on all sides for about 3 minutes per side. After searing, remove the roast from the pot.
After searing, add liquid (such as broth) to deglaze the pot and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Place a trivet in the pot and place the pork roast on top of it. Close the Instant Pot and set it to pressure cook or manual mode depending on your model.
Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release of pressure for 15 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure. Check that the internal temperature of the pork roast has reached 160 degrees F before removing it from the Instant Pot.
Letting the pork rest for a few minutes before slicing allows for juices to redistribute and results in more tender meat. Serve with potatoes, carrots, or mashed potatoes and pour gravy made from flavorful broth over top for added taste.
2. Slice It Up and Serve It
After cooking the pork roast in the Instant Pot, it’s time to slice it up and serve it. Let the pork rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meat moist. You can either slice it into individual pieces or present it on a platter to be sliced at the table.
To make serving easier, you can use a sharp knife to cut the roast into thin slices against the grain. This will help ensure tenderness and make it easier to chew. Arrange the slices on a serving plate and drizzle some of the flavorful broth from the Instant Pot over them.
Pork roast pairs well with a variety of side dishes, so you have many options to choose from. Mashed potatoes and gravy are classic choices that complement the savory flavors of the pork. Roasted cauliflower, green beans, or crispy roast potatoes also make excellent accompaniments.
For added flavor and moisture, you can pour some of the homemade gravy made from the broth over the sliced pork roast. The rich and flavorful gravy enhances the taste of both the meat and any side dishes you choose to serve.
Overall, slicing up and serving your Instant Pot pork roast is a delicious way to enjoy this flavorful and tender dish alongside your favorite sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long do I cook a pork roast in the Instant Pot?
The cooking time for a pork roast in the Instant Pot will vary depending on the size of your roast. It is recommended to cook a boneless pork roast for 15 minutes per pound. For example, a 3 lb roast would be cooked for 45 minutes. Cooking it this long will result in a sliceable roast rather than a fork tender one.
2. What cuts of pork are best for a pork roast?
Pork shoulder (also known as pork butt), pork leg, and loin are all good cuts of meat for a pork roast. Pork shoulder is great for slow cooking and shredding, while pork leg is better for slicing and serving with side dishes. Pork loin is the leanest cut with less fat and cooks faster in the Instant Pot.
3. Should I remove the skin and fat from the pork before cooking?
If you prefer, you can remove the skin and fat from the pork before cooking in the Instant Pot. However, leaving on a little extra fat can help with moisture and flavor. It’s recommended to use a large knife to carefully cut away the skin and fat without cutting into the meat.
4. Can I make gravy from the broth left over in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can make gravy from the broth left over in the Instant Pot. After removing the cooked pork, check the level of fat in the broth and strain off any excess if necessary. Turn on saute mode again and bring the liquid to a boil. Add a slurry of cornstarch mixed with cold water to thicken the gravy.
5. How should I serve my cooked pork roast?
You can serve your cooked pork roast with a variety of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted cauliflower, green beans, or crispy roast potatoes. You can also serve it with gravy poured over the top for added flavor.
How long do I cook a pork roast in the Instant Pot?
Cooking time for a pork roast in the Instant Pot will vary depending on the size and cut of the roast. For a boneless pork roast, it is recommended to cook for 15 minutes per pound in the Instant Pot. For example, a 3 lb roast would need to be cooked for 45 minutes. This cooking time will result in a sliceable roast that is not overly tender. If you prefer a fork-tender, shredded pork texture, cook the roast for longer, around 60 to 70 minutes.
To ensure that the pork roast is fully cooked, check its internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should read at least 160 degrees F. If it’s undercooked, you can turn on the Instant Pot for an additional 5 or 10 minutes.
Why is my pork roast tough?
There are a few reasons why your pork roast may turn out tough. One possible reason is that you didn’t cook it for long enough. Pork roast becomes tender when the connective tissues break down, so if it’s undercooked, it will be tough. Make sure to cook the roast for the recommended amount of time based on its weight.
Another reason could be that you didn’t sear the pork before cooking it in the Instant Pot. Searing the outside of the roast adds immense flavor and helps to lock in moisture. It also adds flavor to the broth, which can be used to make gravy or serve as a sauce for the pork.
Lastly, if you’re using a lean cut of meat like pork loin, it can easily become dry and tough if overcooked. Lean cuts of meat don’t have as much fat to keep them moist, so it’s important to cook them for shorter periods of time to avoid drying them out.
Do I have to sear the pork before cooking?
Searing the pork before cooking is highly recommended. It not only adds immense flavor to the pork, but it also helps to create a flavorful broth that can be used for deglazing the pot and making gravy. The seared crust on the outside of the pork adds depth and richness to the overall dish.
Tying up the pork roast is not necessary if you are using a pork leg roast, as it generally stays in one piece during cooking. However, if you are using a pork shoulder roast, it is recommended to tie it up with string to keep it together. This will help ensure even cooking and prevent it from falling apart during the cooking process.
The recommended cooking time for a boneless pork roast in the Instant Pot is 15 minutes per pound. For example, a 3 lb roast would need to be cooked for approximately 45 minutes. Cooking it this long will result in a sliceable roast rather than a fork tender one. If you prefer a fork tender texture, you will need to cook it for longer, around 60-70 minutes.
In conclusion, cooking a pork roast in an instant pot is a quick and convenient way to achieve delicious results. The tender and flavorful meat can be easily prepared using simple ingredients and minimal effort. With the help of the instant pot, you can enjoy succulent pork roast in no time, making it a perfect choice for any meal.
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