Oven Roasted Pulled Pork

This oven roasted pulled pork is a fantastic way to get tender, flavorful meat without needing special appliances. With just 15 minutes of prep and a homemade seasoning blend, you can enjoy the satisfying taste of pulled pork right from your oven. It’s perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or just piled high on a plate with a side of your favorite BBQ sauce.

I started making this during a week when my slow cooker broke and have not looked back. The family actually prefers the oven method now because it gives great flavor and a wonderful crust if you uncover it near the end.

Ingredients

• Boneless pork shoulder: affordable and full of flavor choose a well marbled cut for juiciness
• Yellow mustard: acts as a natural marinade and helps the seasoning stick Dijon or spicy brown mustard work well too
• Smoked paprika: adds smoky richness Spanish smoked paprika is best if you can find it
• Garlic powder: delivers a deep savory note fresh isn’t needed here because it infuses over the long cook time
• Onion powder: complements the garlic for a balanced aroma
• Salt: enhances every flavor use coarse salt for better control
• Black pepper: contributes mild heat and warmth
• Red pepper flakes: a little kick without overpowering adjust to taste
• Dried thyme: adds an herby brightness
• Cumin: brings earthiness and warmth to the mix
• Beer: a subtle sweetness and acidity that tenderize you can substitute regular soda or broth if preferred
• BBQ sauce: for serving either store bought favorites or a homemade version if you want to take it to the next level

Instructions

Sear the Pork Shoulder:

Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels to help the mustard and spices stick properly. Brush the entire surface with mustard using a clean finger or pastry brush coating evenly. This layer tenderizes and adds a subtle tang.

Mix and Apply the Spice Rub:

Combine smoked paprika garlic powder onion powder salt black pepper red pepper flakes thyme and cumin in a small bowl. Sprinkle the mixture all over the mustard coated pork shoulder then use your hands to press the spices in so they adhere well for maximum flavor on the crust.

Set Up for Roasting:

Place the seasoned pork shoulder in a roasting pan or large baking dish with high sides. Pour the beer carefully around the meat avoiding rinsing the spices off the top. Cover the pan with foil ensuring the foil is tented so it does not touch the meat.

Cook Low and Slow:

Roast the pork at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 ½ to 4 hours. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 203 degrees Fahrenheit for perfect tenderness. In the last 30 minutes of cooking remove the foil to allow the exterior of the pork to brown and develop a delicious crust.

Rest and Shred:

Once out of the oven let the meat rest for 30 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Transfer the pork to a sheet pan and remove any large pieces of fat. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite sized pieces.

Season and Serve:

Sprinkle one teaspoon of salt evenly over the shredded pork and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately with your favorite BBQ sauce whether that’s a classic bottled version or your own homemade recipe.

My favorite part of this recipe is the mustard step. It’s such a simple addition but it really boosts the flavor and juiciness of the pork in a way I didn’t expect at first. One family gathering I brought this pulled pork as sandwiches and everyone kept asking for seconds. That moment sealed it as a yearly staple in our house.

Storage Tips

To store leftovers allow the pork to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage freeze the pork in a freezer safe container or bag ensuring you squeeze out air to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Ingredient Substitutions

No beer on hand or prefer to skip it? Regular sodas like CocaCola or root beer work beautifully thanks to their sweetness and acidity. Broth is an option but tends to be less flavorful. Mustard can be swapped for Dijon or spicy brown varieties to add interesting layers of taste. Feel free to experiment with other spices such as sweet paprika or chili powder but avoid seasonings with sugar to prevent burning during roasting.

Serving Suggestions

Pulled pork is endlessly versatile. Pile it on a soft bun with coleslaw for classic sandwiches. Use it as a topping for nachos or tacos for a fun twist. It is also excellent served alongside traditional BBQ sides like baked beans or potato salad for a hearty meal. Don’t forget a drizzle of your favorite BBQ sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

This oven roasted pulled pork is easy and reliably delicious. Serve it on buns with coleslaw for a crowd pleasing meal.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can bone-in pork shoulder be used?

Yes, bone-in pork shoulder can be used, but cooking times may vary. Use a meat thermometer placed in the thickest part of the meat without touching the bone for accurate readings.

→ Are there alternatives to using beer?

Absolutely. Substitutes include regular sodas like Coca-Cola, Dr Pepper, or Root Beer, or broths such as beef or chicken. Avoid diet sodas for best flavor.

→ Why is mustard applied before roasting?

Mustard acts as a natural tenderizer and flavor enhancer by breaking down proteins and helping the spice rub adhere better to the pork.

→ What are good side dishes to accompany this pork?

Popular pairings include potato salad, coleslaw, baked beans, or using the shredded pork for sandwiches, tacos, or nachos.

→ How can leftover pork be stored and reheated?

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for 3 months. Reheat wrapped in foil with added moisture in an oven set to 350°F for 15-20 minutes.

→ Can different seasoning blends be used?

Yes, but avoid blends with sugar when roasting at high temperatures to prevent burning. Spices like cayenne, paprika, chili powder, and mustard powder work well.

→ How to keep shredded pork moist when serving?

Reserve and drizzle some of the cooking liquid over the shredded meat to maintain moisture and enhance flavor.