How Long to Cook 8 lb Pork Shoulder in Instant Pot

Cooking an 8 lb pork shoulder in an Instant Pot can be tricky because of the size.

Unlike smaller cuts, this one won’t fit into the pot as a whole piece.

To get tender, pull-apart pork, you’ll need to cut it into smaller chunks before cooking.

Let’s break down the timing, method, and what to expect so you get the best results.

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Can You Cook an 8 lb Pork Shoulder Whole in an Instant Pot?

Most 6-or 8-quart Instant Pots simply aren’t large enough to hold a whole 8 lb pork shoulder.

Even if it fits, the meat won’t cook evenly.

For safety and texture, it’s best to cut the shoulder into four to six large chunks.

This lets the pressure penetrate all the way through.

Cooking Time for Pork Shoulder in the Instant Pot

The general rule for pork shoulder in a pressure cooker is:

• 15 minutes per pound when cut into chunks

• Add 10–15 minutes natural pressure release

For an 8 lb pork shoulder (cut into chunks), here’s the math:

• 8 lbs × 15 minutes = about 120 minutes (2 hours) under pressure

• Plus 15 minutes natural release = 2 hours 15 minutes total cooking time

If you tried to cook it whole, you’d be looking at well over 3 hours, and even then, the center might not shred easily.

👉 Want to compare Instant Pot cooking with pellet grilling? Check out this guide on pork shoulder pellet grill time and temperature to see how traditional smoking stacks up.

Steps for Cooking an 8 lb Pork Shoulder in Instant Pot

• Cut into chunks (roughly 1–1.5 lb each).

• Season generously with a rub or marinade.

• Sear the pieces using the sauté function (optional, but adds flavor).

• Add liquid – at least 1 to 1.5 cups (water, broth, or apple juice).

• Set to Pressure Cook – 120 minutes on high.

• Natural Release for 15 minutes before opening.

• Shred and serve – the pork should fall apart with a fork.

For the best shred, let the pork rest a few minutes before pulling it apart.

If you’re serving it outdoors, remember your grill will need a good clean afterward.

A safe tool like the Easy Function Wood Grill Scraper is a natural, bristle-free option for keeping cooking surfaces ready for the next round.

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Best Liquid and Flavor Add-Ins

Pork shoulder pairs well with sweet and tangy flavors.

Try:

• Apple cider or juice

• Chicken or beef broth

• A splash of vinegar or soy sauce

• Garlic, onion, and smoked paprika

The Instant Pot locks in moisture, so the meat stays juicy.

After cooking, you can reduce the leftover liquid into a flavorful sauce.

If you ever take your pork shoulder outdoors for smoking, pairing these flavors with wood smoke is another level.

A quick-reference tool like the Easy Function Meat Smoking Guide helps you match the right wood to the right cut of meat.

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Checking for Doneness

Pork shoulder should reach at least 190°F internal temperature for shredding.

It’s fully cooked at 145°F, but not tender.

The extra time allows the collagen to break down, making it melt-in-your-mouth soft.

To make this easier, you can use a magnetic meat temperature guide like the Easy Function Meat Temp Guide.

Stick it on your fridge or smoker for quick reference whenever you’re cooking meat.

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Serving Ideas

Once cooked, shredded pork shoulder is perfect for:

• Pulled pork sandwiches

• Tacos or burritos

• BBQ plates with coleslaw

• Meal prep protein for the week

You can crisp up the shredded pork under the broiler for extra texture before serving.

Final Thoughts

Cooking an 8 lb pork shoulder in an Instant Pot is totally doable, but only if you cut it into chunks.

Plan for about 2 hours under pressure plus 15 minutes release time.

The result is juicy, tender pork that’s perfect for shredding and serving in a variety of dishes.

If you love cooking pork and other proteins, check out our other range of BBQ-friendly tools from Easy Function to make your grilling and smoking even easier.

Click the image below to explore.