This oven roasted pork butt is a tender and juicy dish that’s packed with flavor. It’s perfect for family dinners or any time you want something hearty and comforting!
You can just season it, pop it in the oven, and let it work its magic. The smell alone will make everyone gather in the kitchen! 😋 I love serving it with some warm bread to soak up the tasty juices.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Butt: This is the star of the dish, known for its rich flavor and marbling. If you can’t find pork butt, a pork shoulder works just as well. Both cuts are great for slow roasting!
Olive Oil: It helps the seasoning stick and keeps the meat moist. You can use vegetable oil or melted butter as an alternative if needed. I often use avocado oil too for a mild flavor.
Spices: The seasoning mix is key! If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika will work. For a different twist, try adding a bit of cumin or chili powder. Make it your own!
Chicken Broth: This adds flavor and moisture. Vegetable broth or even water can be used if you want a lighter option.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crispy Crust on My Pork Butt?
Getting that crispy, golden crust is all about the roasting technique! Once your pork butt is tender, you finish it off by increasing the oven temperature. Here’s how:
- After slow roasting, remove the foil to allow the heat to reach the surface.
- Raise the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and roast for another 20 to 30 minutes.
- Keep an eye on it to prevent burning. You want it golden and crispy!
Letting it rest afterward also helps retain those delicious juices. Enjoy your cooking!
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
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 large onion, quartered (optional, for roasting bed)
- 6 to 8 whole garlic cloves (optional)
- Whole baby potatoes or mushrooms (optional, for roasting alongside)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious oven roasted pork butt takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 3 to 4 hours to cook slowly in the oven. After that, give it some resting time for the juices to settle, which makes it even tastier. All together, you can expect to dedicate around 4 to 5 hours for this fantastic dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). A steady, low heat is key to making your pork nice and tender.
2. Prepare the Pork:
Using paper towels, pat the pork butt dry to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a nice crust later on.
3. Mix the Spices:
In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, and cayenne pepper if you like a little kick. This mix brings out amazing flavors!
4. Season the Pork:
Rub the pork all over with olive oil, then coat it generously with your spice blend. Make sure to cover all sides and really press it in!
5. Set Up for Roasting:
If you’re using them, place the quartered onion and whole garlic cloves in a roasting pan or baking dish to form a flavorful base. Place the seasoned pork butt on top, and if you’re adding baby potatoes or mushrooms, surround the pork with them.
6. Add Moisture:
Pour the chicken broth or water into the pan. This will help keep your pork succulent while it roasts.
7. Cover and Roast:
Tightly cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil to keep the moisture inside. Roast in the oven for about 3 to 4 hours. You want the internal temperature to reach about 195°F to 205°F (90°C to 96°C) for perfectly tender meat.
8. Crisp Up the Crust:
Once the pork has finished roasting, carefully remove the foil and raise the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Roast it uncovered for an additional 20 to 30 minutes until the crust is crispy and deeply browned.
9. Rest and Serve:
Take the pork butt out of the oven and let it rest for at least 15 to 20 minutes before slicing or shredding. This is crucial for keeping it juicy!
10. Enjoy:
Serve your juicy roasted pork butt with the roasted vegetables and drizzled with pan juices. It’s perfect for family dinners or pulled pork sandwiches! Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes, you can substitute pork shoulder for pork butt if that’s what you have on hand. Both cuts contain enough fat to keep the meat moist and flavorful during roasting!
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No problem! You can use regular paprika for a milder flavor, or even a mix of paprika and a bit of cumin for a unique twist. Adjust according to your taste preference!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can season the pork butt the night before and let it marinate in the fridge. Just bring it to room temperature before roasting, and adjust the cooking time as needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the oven or a skillet to maintain its moisture and flavor.