Cooking a pork shoulder in the oven is a fantastic way to get tender, juicy meat that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep. This cut of meat is flavorful and forgiving, making it ideal for slow roasting. If you’ve ever wondered how to cook a pork shoulder in the oven to perfection, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step with easy tips and tricks.
What You’ll Need
– 1 pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless, about 4-7 pounds)
– Salt and pepper
– Olive oil or another cooking oil
– Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, sage (optional)
– Garlic (optional)
– Your favorite spices (paprika, garlic powder, etc., optional)
– A roasting pan with a rack or a baking dish
Step 1: Preparing the Pork Shoulder
Start by taking the pork shoulder out of the fridge and letting it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps it cook more evenly. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) for a slow roast that will make the meat tender and juicy.
If you want crispy skin (crackling), make sure your pork shoulder has the skin on. Score the skin with a sharp knife and season it generously with salt. For extra crispy crackling, season the skin a day ahead and leave it uncovered in the fridge overnight.
Step 2: Seasoning the Meat
Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Rub the entire surface with olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper. You can also add herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage, plus garlic and spices such as paprika or garlic powder to boost flavor. Mix fresh herbs with olive oil and garlic to create a herb paste to coat the meat if you like.
Step 3: Optional Searing for Extra Flavor
For a richer flavor and a beautiful golden crust, sear the pork shoulder in a hot pan with a little oil before roasting. Brown all sides for a few minutes until you get a nice crust. This step is optional but recommended.
Step 4: Roasting the Pork Shoulder
Place the pork shoulder on a rack in a roasting pan or directly in a baking dish. Cover the pan tightly with foil or a lid to keep the moisture in, which helps make the meat tender.
Roast the pork shoulder low and slow. A good rule of thumb is to cook it for about 25 minutes per pound. For example, a 5-pound pork shoulder will take roughly 2 to 2.5 hours at 325°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; you want it to reach between 190°F and 205°F (88°C to 96°C) for perfectly tender, pull-apart meat.
If you want crackling, you can start roasting at a high temperature (around 450°F or 230°C) for the first 30-45 minutes to crisp the skin, then reduce the heat to 325°F (165°C) for the rest of the cooking time.
Step 5: Resting the Meat
Once the pork shoulder reaches the right temperature and is tender, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it juicy and flavorful.
Step 6: Serving Your Pork Shoulder
After resting, you can slice the pork shoulder or shred it with two forks for pulled pork. Serve it with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or in sandwiches with barbecue sauce.
Tips for Perfect Oven-Roasted Pork Shoulder
– Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking or undercooking.
– If the skin isn’t crispy enough, increase the oven temperature at the end for a few minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
– Baste the pork occasionally with its own juices or add a splash of broth or beer to the pan to keep it moist.
– For extra flavor, add sliced onions, garlic cloves, or herbs to the roasting pan.
Cooking pork shoulder in the oven is straightforward and rewarding. With simple seasoning and slow roasting, you’ll have tender, flavorful meat that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious aroma and the satisfying taste of your perfectly cooked pork shoulder!