This Oven Roasted Pork Butt is simply mouthwatering! It’s tender and juicy, with a crispy, golden crust that makes it so tempting. Seasoned just right, it’s packed with flavor!
I love how this dish fills the kitchen with a delicious smell while cooking. It’s great for family dinners, and leftovers (if there are any!) make awesome sandwiches the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Butt: This is a great cut for slow cooking due to its marbling. You can use bone-in for more flavor or boneless for easier slicing. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using pork loin, but remember it may not be as juicy.
Olive Oil: A must for helping the spices stick and for moisture. You can swap it with vegetable oil or melted butter if you prefer a different flavor or if olive oil is not available.
Spices: The mix of spices adds depth to the flavor. Feel free to personalize! If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works too. For a zesty twist, consider adding some cumin or coriander.
Liquid: I often use apple cider for a hint of sweetness, but chicken broth or just water also works. Adjusting this can give your pork a different flavor profile.
Why is Proper Seasoning Important for Oven Roasted Pork Butt?
Seasoning is what elevates the flavor of your pork butt. Take time to mix your spices well and rub them deeply into the meat. This not only infuses flavor but also creates that delicious, crusty exterior.
- Pat the pork dry before seasoning. This helps the seasoning stick better.
- Don’t be shy with the rub! Ensure it’s coated evenly; the flavor needs to get into every inch.
- Let the seasoned pork rest for at least 30 minutes to absorb the seasoning before cooking. This makes a huge difference!
Oven Roasted Pork Butt
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 to 5 pounds pork butt (also called pork shoulder), bone-in or boneless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or dried rosemary (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili powder (optional for heat)
- 1 cup water or apple cider (for the roasting pan)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep time, plus 4 to 4.5 hours of cooking time. You’ll spend the first part seasoning and setting up the pork, then let it roast low and slow for that perfect tenderness. After a quick crisp up in the oven, you’ll have a fantastic dish ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow cooking is what makes the pork butt so tender and juicy!
2. Prepare Pork Butt:
Grab some paper towels and pat the pork butt dry. This helps achieve a nice, crispy crust when roasting.
3. Season:
In a small bowl, mix together the kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and cayenne pepper if you want some heat. Rub olive oil all over the pork, then coat it generously with the spice mix, doing your best to cover every nook and cranny.
4. Roasting Setup:
Place the seasoned pork butt fat side up on a rack inside a roasting pan. Pour water or apple cider into the bottom of the pan. This will help keep the meat moist as it roasts.
5. Roast Low and Slow:
Put the pork in the oven and roast for about 3.5 to 4 hours, checking for an internal temperature of 195°F to 205°F (90°C to 96°C). This is the sweet spot for shredding tender pork!
6. Crisp the Crust:
Once the pork is tender, crank up the oven to 425°F (220°C). Roast the pork for an additional 20-30 minutes to get a beautiful, crispy brown crust on the outside.
7. Rest the Meat:
Once done, take the pork out of the oven and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 20 minutes. This helps keep all those delicious juices locked in before you slice or shred it.
8. Serve:
Now, slice or shred the pork butt as you like. Serve it up with your favorite sides, or pile it high on a sandwich for an amazing meal!
Enjoy your tender, flavorful oven roasted pork butt with its perfectly crispy crust! You’ll impress everyone with this dish for sure!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes, you can! While pork butt is ideal for its marbling and flavor, you can substitute with pork shoulder or even a pork loin for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, especially for lean cuts.
How Can I Store Leftover Pork Butt?
Store any leftover pulled or sliced pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing to avoid any moisture buildup.
What Should I Serve with Oven Roasted Pork Butt?
This pork is incredibly versatile! Consider serving it with creamy coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or your favorite mac and cheese. It also makes for fantastic sandwiches when piled high on a bun with BBQ sauce!
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! If you prefer using a slow cooker, season the pork butt as instructed, then place it in the slow cooker with a little broth or cider. Cook on low for about 8-10 hours until it’s tender and easy to shred.