best pork butt recipe
The Best best pork butt recipe
I love this recipe because it’s forgiving. You can throw it in the oven, let it simmer low and slow, and by the time it’s done, the meat falls apart at the touch of a fork. It’s perfect for big meals, like a holiday spread or a weeknight when you want something hearty but not complicated. Plus, the way the pork absorbs all that smoky, savory sauce makes every bite feel like a little reward. My husband says it’s his favorite way to eat pork, and honestly, I don’t blame him. It’s simple, it’s satisfying, and it’s something you can’t really mess up—unless you let it burn, which I’ve learned to avoid.
Juicy Pulled Pork Butt with Smoky BBQ Sauce
A tender, fall-apart pork butt slow-cooked to perfection, then shredded and tossed in a rich, slightly sweet BBQ sauce. Ideal for sandwiches, tacos, or serving over rice.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 (6–7 lb) bone-in pork shoulder (butt)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp kosher salt
- 2 tbsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp liquid smoke
- Salt and black pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Pat the pork butt dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, salt, pepper, brown sugar, garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, and cumin. Rub the mixture all over the pork, coating every inch. -
2
Place the pork butt in a slow cooker or a roasting pan. For oven method, roast at 275°F until the internal temperature reaches 195–203°F (about 3–4 hours). For slow cooker, cook on low for 6–8 hours. -
3
While the pork cooks, whisk together the BBQ sauce ingredients in a bowl. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. -
4
Once the pork is tender, remove it from the cooker or pan and let it rest for 15 minutes. Shred the meat with forks, discarding any large fat chunks. -
5
Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker or pan. Pour the BBQ sauce over it and stir to combine. Cook on low for another 30–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
🔧Equipment
- Slow cooker or oven
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Juicy Pulled Pork Butt with Smoky BBQ Sauce Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Juicy Pulled Pork Butt with Smoky BBQ Sauce
1. How do I ensure my pork butt stays moist while cooking?
Use a few tablespoons of apple cider vinegar or brown sugar in the marinade to tenderize the meat. After cooking, let the pork rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing. Wrap the meat tightly in foil and keep it warm in a 170°F oven while you finish slicing.
2. What’s the best way to check if the pork butt is done?
The pork is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 195–203°F on a meat thermometer. The edges should pull away from the bone, and the meat should be fork-tender. Avoid overcooking, as it can dry out.
3. Can I use a slow cooker instead of an oven for this recipe?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time. For a slow cooker, cook on low for 8–10 hours or high for 5–6 hours. If using a pull-apart method, you may need to add a little extra liquid (like broth or apple juice) to prevent drying out.
4. Should I render fat off the top of the pork before serving?
It depends on your preference. Rendering the fat makes the meat leaner and reduces greasiness, but it also removes some flavor. For a richer taste, leave the fat intact and serve with a side of pickles or a tangy sauce to balance it.
