Air Fryer Pulled Pork
Ready in about 70 minutes.
Updated 7 September 2026
Tender, smoky pulled pork is achievable in the air fryer using a compact boneless shoulder joint. The enclosed heat renders the fat and builds a deep bark, then it shreds into juicy strands for buns and bowls.
Ingredients
- 1.2 kg boneless pork shoulder
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 150 ml barbecue sauce
Method
- 1Mix the sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper into a rub.
- 2Pat the pork dry and coat all over with the rub.
- 3Preheat the air fryer to 180°C/360°F.
- 4Cook the joint 50-60 minutes, flipping halfway, until deeply browned.
- 5Check it reaches 90°C/195°F so the collagen breaks down and it pulls easily.
- 6Rest 15 minutes, then shred with two forks and toss through the barbecue sauce.
Tips for the best results
- Wrap in foil for the final 15 minutes if the outside darkens too fast.
- Low internal temperatures will be tough; pork shoulder needs to hit around 90°C to shred.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature and time for air fryer pulled pork?+
Cook at 180°C / 360°F for 50-60 min, flip halfway.
Why so much higher internal temp than pork chops?+
Shoulder is full of connective tissue that only softens well above 88°C, unlike lean cuts served at 63°C.