Prep
15 min
Cook
3 hr 30 min
Total
4 hr 5 min
Servings
10

Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C).

  2. Use a pairing knife to make 8 small slits in the pork, about 1 1/2 inches deep. Insert a garlic clove into each slit.

  3. Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly on all sides of the pork.

  4. Place the pork, fat-side up, in a 9x13-inch baking dish.

  5. Cook in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

  6. Reduce the heat to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).

  7. Carefully pour 3/4 cup of water around the sides of the pork.

  8. Cover the baking dish with foil and continue cooking for 1 1/2 hours.

  9. Remove the foil and cook for an additional 1 1/2 hours, or until the pork is tender and the meat has pulled away from the bone. The internal temperature should reach at least 145 degrees F (63 degrees C) when measured with an instant-read thermometer.

  10. Remove the pork from the oven and let it stand for 20 minutes.

  11. Remove any large fat layer and discard. Shred the pork by pulling it apart.

  12. Note: Pork butt may also be labeled as pork shoulder in grocery stores.

  13. Alternatively, this entire recipe can be cooked on Low in a slow cooker for 6 to 8 hours.

About this recipe

Are you craving tender and juicy pulled pork but don't have a smoker or grill? Don't worry, because I've got you covered with this easy oven pulled pork recipe! In this article, I'll show you how to make mouthwatering pulled pork using only your oven. No fancy equipment required!

The Secret to Perfect Pulled Pork

Before we dive into the recipe, let's talk about the secret to perfect pulled pork. It's all about low and slow cooking. This method allows the pork to cook slowly, resulting in tender and flavorful meat that practically falls apart.

Just imagine sinking your teeth into a sandwich filled with succulent, melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork. Picture the smoky aroma filling your kitchen as the meat cooks to perfection. Sounds amazing, right? Well, with this easy oven pulled pork recipe, you can bring that experience to life in your own home.

Prepping the Pork

The first step in making oven pulled pork is choosing the right cut of meat. I recommend using a pork shoulder or pork butt for the best results. These cuts are well-marbled and have enough fat to keep the meat moist during the long cooking process.

Once you have your pork, it's time to season it. You can keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or get creative with a dry rub of your choice. The key is to let the flavors penetrate the meat, so make sure to rub the seasoning all over and let it sit in the fridge for at least an hour.

Slow and Steady Cooking

Now that your pork is prepped and seasoned, it's time to cook it low and slow. Preheat your oven to a low temperature, around 250째F (120째C). Place the pork in a roasting pan or a Dutch oven, cover it tightly with foil or a lid, and let it cook for several hours.

During this time, the magic happens. The low temperature allows the collagen in the meat to break down, resulting in tender and juicy pulled pork. The fat also renders, adding flavor and moisture to the meat.

The Finishing Touch

After a few hours of slow cooking, your pork should be fork-tender and ready to be pulled apart. Remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before shredding it with a fork or your hands. The meat should easily fall apart into delicious, bite-sized pieces.

Now comes the fun part - serving and enjoying your oven pulled pork! Whether you prefer it on a bun with coleslaw, in tacos with a squeeze of lime, or simply on its own, this versatile meat is sure to be a hit.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use a different cut of pork for oven pulled pork?

While pork shoulder or pork butt are the preferred cuts for pulled pork, you can also use a pork loin or tenderloin. However, keep in mind that these leaner cuts may not result in as tender and juicy meat.

. How long should I cook the pork?

The cooking time will vary depending on the size of your pork and the temperature of your oven. As a general rule of thumb, calculate around 1 hour of cooking time per pound of pork. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 195째F (90째C) for optimal tenderness.

. Can I make oven pulled pork ahead of time?

Absolutely! Oven pulled pork is a great make-ahead dish. Once the meat is cooked and shredded, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop.

. Can I freeze oven pulled pork?

Yes, you can freeze oven pulled pork for future use. Place the cooled meat in freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to remove any excess air. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

. How can I add more flavor to my oven pulled pork?

While the slow cooking process will infuse the meat with delicious flavors, you can enhance it further by adding a barbecue sauce or your favorite spices during the last hour of cooking. This will create a sticky and flavorful crust on the outside of the pork.

. Can I use a slow cooker instead of the oven?

Absolutely! If you prefer to use a slow cooker, you can follow the same steps for seasoning and prepping the pork. Simply place it in the slow cooker, cover it, and cook on low heat for 8-10 hours or until the meat is fork-tender.

. Can I make oven pulled pork without seasoning?

While seasoning adds flavor to the meat, you can still make delicious pulled pork without it. The slow cooking process will result in tender and juicy meat, and you can always add your favorite sauce or seasoning when serving.

. Can I use this oven pulled pork recipe for a large crowd?

Absolutely! This recipe is easily scalable, making it perfect for feeding a large crowd. Simply adjust the amount of pork and seasoning according to the number of people you're serving. Keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted as well.

In conclusion, making tender and flavorful pulled pork is easier than you think. With this easy oven pulled pork recipe, you can enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of pulled pork without the need for a smoker or grill. So why wait? Fire up your oven, grab a pork shoulder, and let's get cooking!

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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