How Long To Cook Pork Shoulder At 350

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Introduction

Pork shoulder, also known as Boston butt, is a cut celebrated for its rich flavor and versatility. Slow-cooked, it transforms into tender, succulent meat perfect for pulled pork, tacos, and countless other dishes. Cooking pork shoulder at 350F (175C) is a method that strikes a balance between achieving a deeply flavorful exterior and rendering the interior wonderfully tender. This method of cooking pork shoulder at 350 is a reliable approach for achieving a delightful meal.

Ingredients

Pork Shoulder: A 4-6 pound (1.8-2.7 kg) pork shoulder, bone-in or boneless. Bone-in generally adds more flavor. Dry Rub: 2 tablespoons paprika 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1 tablespoon garlic powder 1 tablespoon onion powder 1 tablespoon kosher salt 1 tablespoon black pepper 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat) Optional Liquid: 1 cup apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, or water (for braising). Binder (Optional): Yellow mustard or olive oil to help the rub adhere.

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Pork: Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. This helps the dry rub adhere better. 2. Apply the Binder (Optional): Lightly coat the pork shoulder with yellow mustard or olive oil. This acts as a binder for the dry rub. 3. Make the Dry Rub: Combine all the dry rub ingredients in a bowl and mix well. 4. Season Generously: Liberally apply the dry rub all over the pork shoulder, ensuring every surface is covered. Massage the rub into the meat. 5. Rest: Wrap the seasoned pork shoulder in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). 2. Prepare the Pork for Cooking: Place the pork shoulder in a Dutch oven or a large roasting pan. If using, pour 1 cup of apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, or water into the bottom of the pan, being careful not to wash away the rub. This braising liquid will keep the pork moist during cooking. 3. Cover and Cook: Cover the Dutch oven or roasting pan tightly with a lid or aluminum foil. This is crucial for trapping moisture and tenderizing the pork. 4. Cook Time: Cook for approximately 4-5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 203F (95C). The pork shoulder should be easily shreddable with a fork. A 4-pound shoulder will likely take about 4 hours. A 6-pound shoulder will likely take about 5 hours. 5. Check for Tenderness: After 4 hours, check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the shoulder. If it’s not yet at 203F (95C), continue cooking, checking every 30 minutes. 6. Rest: Once cooked, remove the pork shoulder from the oven and let it rest, still covered, for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat. 7. Shred: After resting, shred the pork shoulder using two forks. Discard any excess fat or bones. 8. Toss with Sauce (Optional): Toss the shredded pork with your favorite barbecue sauce, or serve it plain.

Serving Suggestions

Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Serve the shredded pork on hamburger buns with coleslaw and barbecue sauce. Tacos: Use the shredded pork as a filling for tacos, topped with your favorite taco toppings like salsa, guacamole, and sour cream. Nachos: Top tortilla chips with shredded pork, cheese, jalapeos, and other nacho toppings. Salads: Add the shredded pork to salads for a protein-packed meal. Sides: Serve with classic barbecue sides like coleslaw, baked beans, macaroni and cheese, or cornbread.

Tips and Common Mistakes

Don’t Skip the Rest: Resting the pork shoulder after cooking is crucial for tenderness. Don’t be tempted to shred it right away. Use a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure the pork shoulder is cooked to the proper temperature. Don’t Be Afraid of Fat: Pork shoulder is a fatty cut of meat, and that fat is what makes it so flavorful and tender. Don’t trim too much of the fat off before cooking. Low and Slow: While this method uses 350F, remember the principles of slow cooking still apply. The longer the cook, the more tender the result. Adjust Cooking Time: Always prioritize internal temperature over estimated cooking time. Every piece of meat is different, so use cooking time as a general guide only.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Mastering how long to cook pork shoulder at 350F unlocks a world of culinary possibilities, bringing a rich, smoky flavor to a versatile and beloved dish. Its tender texture and ease of preparation make it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for casual gatherings or family meals. The beauty of pork shoulder lies in its adaptability experiment with different rubs, sauces, and sides to create a personalized culinary masterpiece. Ready to impress your friends and family? Try this method at home and discover the magic of perfectly cooked pork shoulder. For more inspiring recipes and cooking guides, visit foodrecipestory.com.