If you’re looking for a simple, flavorful, and tender pulled pork recipe, you’re in the right place. This dish is perfect for family dinners, BBQ parties, or meal prep. With minimal effort and a handful of ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that everyone will love.
Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–8 hours
- Servings: 8–10
Why You’ll Love It
- Effortless Cooking: The oven does most of the work for you with its “low and slow” magic.
- Versatile Dish: Use it in sandwiches, tacos, salads, or even on baked potatoes.
- Customizable Flavors: Adjust the spices and sauces to suit your taste.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Ingredients
For the Dry Rub:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Pork:
- 4–5 pounds pork shoulder (also called pork butt), excess fat trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth or apple cider
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pork
Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder. Pat it dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick.
2. Make the Dry Rub
In a small bowl, mix all the dry rub ingredients. Generously coat the pork with olive oil, then rub the spice mixture all over, ensuring every inch is covered.
3. Preheat and Set Up
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the seasoned pork in a roasting pan or Dutch oven. Pour chicken broth (or apple cider) around the pork to keep it moist during cooking.
4. Cook Low and Slow
Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil or a lid. Roast in the oven for about 6–8 hours (or roughly 1.5 hours per pound) until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 190–200°F (88–93°C). The meat should be tender enough to shred easily with a fork.
5. Rest and Shred
Let the pork rest for 15 minutes before shredding it with two forks. Mix some of the pan drippings back into the meat for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Sandwiches: Serve on toasted buns with coleslaw and pickles.
- Tacos: Stuff into tortillas with avocado, salsa, and lime.
- Bowls: Add to rice or quinoa with roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.
- Nachos: Use as a topping for loaded nachos with melted cheese and jalapeños.
Tips for Customization
- Add BBQ Sauce: Toss shredded pork in your favorite BBQ sauce for extra flavor.
- Go Spicy: Increase chili powder or add cayenne pepper to the rub.
- Crispy Edges: After shredding, spread pork on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes until crispy.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Approximate values based on an average serving size.
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of pork?
Yes! Pork shoulder or Boston butt works best due to its fat content, but you can also use pork loin if you prefer leaner meat (adjust cooking time accordingly).
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store shredded pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Pulled pork tastes even better after sitting overnight as flavors deepen.
4. What if I don’t have a roasting pan?
A Dutch oven or any oven-safe dish with a tight-fitting lid works just as well. This easy oven-roasted pulled pork is guaranteed to become your go-to recipe for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a party or prepping meals for the week, this dish delivers every time.
