slow cook pork butt recipe

slow cook pork butt recipe

The Best slow cook pork butt recipe

I’ve been making slow-cooked pork butt for years, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. The dish originated from traditional American cuisine, where pork was a staple meat. The slow-cooking method breaks down the connective tissues in the meat, making it tender and juicy.

When I’m cooking for my family, I like to serve this dish with some crusty bread or over rice. It’s a comforting meal that never fails to impress. The key to this recipe is using a pork butt with the skin still intact.

This helps keep the meat moist during the long cooking process. I also like to use a mixture of spices and herbs to add depth of flavor. My kids love helping me prepare the ingredients, and they’re always eager to taste the finished product.

One of the best things about slow-cooked pork butt is its versatility. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion alike. I’ve even served it at potlucks and parties, where it’s always been a hit.

The leftovers are just as delicious, if not more so, when reheated the next day. From a health perspective, slow-cooked pork butt is a great option because it’s made with leaner cuts of meat and minimal added sugars or oils.

Slow Cooker Pork Butt

Slow Cooker Pork Butt

4.5 from 1574 votes

Tender, fall-apart pork butt cooked low and slow in a savory broth. This easy recipe yields juicy shredded pork perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or serving over rice.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time8 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time8 hours 15 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pork

4-5 pounds bone-in pork butt
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Cooking Liquid

1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 large onion, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced

👨‍🍳Directions

1Pat the pork butt dry with paper towels.
2In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne if using.
3Rub the spice mixture all over the pork, pressing it into the surface.
4Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
5Sear the pork butt on all sides until deeply browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6This step builds flavor and creates a rich crust.
7Place the sliced onion and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.
8Set the seared pork butt on top of the onions.
9In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce, then pour the mixture around the pork.
10Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or on HIGH for 5-6 hours.
11The pork is done when it is fork-tender and easily pulls apart with little resistance.
12The internal temperature should reach at least 195°F for optimal shredding.
13Carefully transfer the pork to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes.
14Use two forks to shred the meat, discarding any large pieces of fat or bone.
15Skim excess fat from the cooking liquid, then drizzle some of the liquid over the shredded pork to keep it moist.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker (6-quart or larger)
Large skillet
Tongs
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Two forks for shredding

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 6g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 42g

📝Notes

For extra flavor, add a splash of liquid smoke or a few sprigs of fresh thyme to the cooking liquid. Leftover shredded pork can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Pork Butt Works

This slow-cooked pork butt recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need something easy for dinner.

One of my favorite ways to serve it is by slicing it thinly and serving it with some steamed vegetables on top.

You can also store any leftovers in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for later use.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Pork Butt

1.

Q: What is the best way to cook a pork butt in a slow cooker?
A: To cook a pork butt in a slow cooker, place the meat in the cooker with your desired seasonings and liquids, then set the temperature to low or high depending on your preference. Cooking time will vary based on the size of the meat and your desired level of tenderness.

2.

Q: Can you use any type of pork for this recipe?
A: While you can use other cuts of pork for this recipe, such as shoulder or loin, pork butt is specifically designed for slow cooking due to its marbling and fat content.

3.

Q: How do you prevent overcooking when using this method?
A: To prevent overcooking when using this method, make sure to check on the meat regularly during the last few hours of cooking time. If it starts to dry out or becomes too tender, remove it from heat immediately.

4.

Q: Can you make this recipe in advance?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe in advance by preparing all your ingredients ahead of time and storing them in an airtight container until ready to cook.

5.

Q: What are some variations on this recipe that I can try?
A: Some variations on this recipe include adding different types of wood chips or chunks during cooking time for added smoky flavor.

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