Savory Oven-Baked Pork Butt Recipe

There’s something incredibly satisfying about the aroma of seasoned pork butt roasting in the oven. This recipe transforms a simple cut of meat into a tender, juicy masterpiece that will have your family begging for seconds. Whether it’s a Sunday dinner or a special occasion, this oven-baked pork butt is sure to impress.

Ready to fill your kitchen with mouthwatering scents? This dish combines the perfect blend of spices to create a flavorful crust on the outside while keeping the meat succulent on the inside. The slow roasting process breaks down the fat, making every bite melt in your mouth.

Preparation for the Perfect Pork Butt

Creating a succulent pork butt starts with preparation. Begin by patting the meat dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. This initial step sets the foundation for an incredible crust.

Next, generously coat the pork with olive oil. This not only helps with seasoning adherence but also contributes to a beautifully crisp exterior. The right oil will enhance the pork’s natural flavors, making each bite more satisfying.

Seasoning: The Key to Flavor

The magic lies in the seasoning mix. A blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, cumin, and optional cayenne pepper creates a complex flavor profile.

Apply the spice mixture generously all over the pork. This ensures that every slice is packed with flavor. Don’t shy away from massaging the spices into the meat; this helps the spices permeate the pork for an even tastier end result.

Roasting Process: Slow and Steady Wins the Race

After seasoning, place the pork butt in a roasting pan fat side up. Pour in chicken broth or apple juice for moisture. This step is critical for retaining juiciness during the long cooking process. Cover the pan with aluminum foil to trap heat and steam.

Roast the meat at a low temperature. This slow cooking method breaks down tough fibers, resulting in tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat. The key is patience; allow the pork to cook for several hours until it reaches the desired internal temperature.

Creating the Perfect Crust

As your pork butt nears completion, remove the foil for the last hour of cooking. This is where the magic happens—exposing the meat allows the exterior to crisp up beautifully.

The heat will caramelize the sugars in the seasoning, creating a golden brown, flavorful crust that contrasts perfectly with the juicy interior. Watching this transformation is part of the excitement of cooking!

Resting and Serving

Once the pork butt is done, it’s vital to let it rest before slicing. Allowing the meat to rest for 15-20 minutes helps retain juices, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor.

When ready, slice or shred the meat to serve alongside sides like roasted vegetables and creamy mashed potatoes. The combination makes for a hearty meal that’s perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

Accompaniments: Enhancing the Feast

No feast is complete without sides. Pair your pork butt with roasted vegetables, which can be seasoned similarly for a cohesive flavor experience.

A steaming bowl of mashed potatoes provides a comforting addition, perfect for soaking up the savory juices of the pork. Together, these elements create a visually appealing and satisfying meal that will impress any guest.

The Ultimate Oven-Baked Pork Butt Recipe

This oven-baked pork butt is seasoned with a rich blend of spices, slow-cooked to perfection. The final result is a dish that’s both savory and slightly sweet, with a crispy exterior and a juicy interior that makes it truly irresistible.

Ingredients

• 1 (4-5 pound) pork butt or shoulder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 cup chicken broth or apple juice for basting

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Prepare the Pork: Pat the pork butt dry with paper towels. Rub the olive oil all over the meat.
3. Season the Meat: In a bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Rub this spice mixture generously over the pork butt.
4. Roast: Place the pork butt in a roasting pan fat side up. Pour the chicken broth or apple juice into the pan to keep the meat moist. Cover the pan with aluminum foil.
5. Cook Slowly: Roast in the oven for about 4-6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C). Remove the foil during the last hour to allow the crust to form.
6. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing or shredding. Serve with your favorite sides.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 hours
• Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes

• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories: 350kcal
• Fat: 22g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 5g