How Long to Cook Pork Shoulder in Oven at 350 Degrees Fahrenheit
Anyone who loves tender and juicy meat would surely love to dig into a perfectly cooked pork shoulder. This versatile cut of meat can be roasted, smoked, or braised, but for this article, we are going to focus on how to cook pork shoulder in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you are new to cooking pork shoulder, you may be wondering how long to cook it for. The answer to this question depends on the size of the pork shoulder and the desired level of doneness. But as a rule of thumb, you should cook the pork shoulder for about 45 minutes per pound. This means that a 5-pound pork shoulder will take about 3 hours and 45 minutes to cook.
Tips for Cooking Pork Shoulder
Here are a few tips to help you cook the perfect pork shoulder:
- Choose a pork shoulder that is well-marbled. This will help ensure that the meat is tender and juicy.
- Season the pork shoulder liberally with salt and pepper. You can also add other spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
- Roast the pork shoulder in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat. The pork shoulder is done when the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit, about 5 degrees below the recommended safe internal temperature of cooked pork of 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Let the pork shoulder rest for about 30 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat.
FAQs About Cooking Pork Shoulder
Here are some frequently asked questions about cooking pork shoulder:
- Q: What is the best way to season a pork shoulder?
A: The best way to season a pork shoulder is to use a combination of salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. You can also add a rub or marinade to the pork shoulder for extra flavor.
- Q: How long should I cook a pork shoulder per pound?
A: A pork shoulder should be cooked for about 45 minutes per pound.
- Q: What is the internal temperature of a cooked pork shoulder?
A: The internal temperature of a cooked pork shoulder should be 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Q: Can I cook a pork shoulder in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can cook a pork shoulder in a slow cooker. Cook it on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours.
Conclusion
Cooking a pork shoulder is a great way to feed a crowd. It is a relatively inexpensive cut of meat that is easy to cook and always a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy cooking your pork shoulder and let me know how it turns out in the comments below. If you have any other questions about this recipe or cooking pork shoulder in general, don’t hesitate to leave a comment.
