How long to cook pork shoulder at 350? – The ultimate guide

Cooking pork shoulder at 350 degrees requires you to plan enough time for the meat to cook all the way through. This can be a tricky task since the exact cooking time depends on both the weight and shape of your roast. To help you figure out how long it will take, we’ve created a comprehensive guide that details everything from calculating estimated cooking times to some insider tips and tricks for perfecting your recipe results. Read on to discover exactly how long to cook pork shoulder at 350 degrees.

What is pork shoulder?

Pork shoulder is a cut of meat taken from the upper foreleg or front portion of the pig. It’s also known as “picnic” or “Boston butt.” This cut is full of flavorful fat, which makes it an ideal candidate for slow-cooking recipes like pulled pork and tacos.

Nutritional value of pork shoulder

Pork shoulder is a great source of protein and contains other essential vitamins and minerals. Since it’s high in fat, it has more calories than lean cuts of pork such as tenderloin. A 3-ounce serving of pork shoulder contains approximately 174 calories, 19 grams of protein, 9 grams of fat, and 1 gram of carbohydrates.

Why cook pork shoulder at 350?

Cooking pork shoulder at 350 degrees is a great way to ensure the meat is cooked through. The higher temperature helps to break down the fat and connective tissues in the cut without drying out the meat or making it too tough. Plus, the extra heat will give you that beautiful golden brown exterior that makes your dish so appetizing.

Preparing the pork shoulder for cooking at 350

Before you begin cooking pork shoulder at 350 degrees, it’s important to make sure the meat is prepared properly. Start by trimming off any excess fat or gristle and patting the roast dry with a paper towel. Once this is done, you can season the meat however you like. This could range from a simple rub of salt and pepper to something more complex like a BBQ marinade.

How to cook pork shoulder at 350?

In the oven:

When cooking pork shoulder in the oven at 350 degrees, you’ll want to preheat your oven to start. Place the seasoned roast on a roasting pan and add about 1/2 cup of liquid to the bottom. This can be any type of stock or even just some water. Cover the pan with foil and place it in the hot oven for approximately 2 hours for every pound of pork. Uncover the roast and then cook it for an additional 15 minutes or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 145 degrees. Once that’s done, remove the roast from the oven and serve it with your favorite side dishes.

In the air fryer:

If you’re using an air fryer to cook pork shoulder at 350 degrees, you’ll want to start by preheating the machine. Place the seasoned roast in the air fryer basket and cook it for approximately 30 minutes, flipping it once halfway through. When a meat thermometer inserted into the center of the roast reads 145 degrees, remove it from the air fryer and allow it to rest before serving.

On the stove:

You can also cook pork shoulder on the stove at 350 degrees. Begin by heating a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add some oil to the pan and then place your seasoned roast in it. Cook for approximately 4 minutes per side or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 145 degrees. When this is done, take the roast off the heat and serve it with your favorite accompaniments.

How long to cook pork shoulder at 350?

The exact cooking time will vary depending on the weight and shape of your roast, but as a general rule you should plan for about 2 hours of cooking at 350 degrees for every 1 pound of pork shoulder. For example, if you have a 4-pound roast then it should take approximately 8 hours to cook in the oven or 5-6 minutes per side on the stovetop.

Factors affecting the cooking time of pork shoulder at 350

Besides the size of your roast, there are a few other factors that can affect how long it takes to cook pork shoulder at 350 degrees. These include:

• The type of cooking method used (oven, stovetop, air fryer)
• The thickness of the cut
• The temperature of the oven or pan
• Whether or not the roast is covered
• How often you flip it while cooking

Tips for cooking pork shoulder at 350 perfectly

After knowing how long to cook pork shoulder at 350, we have some tips and tricks to make sure you get the perfect results every time.

• Always use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of your roast. You can also test it by piercing it with a knife – the juices should run clear when it’s done.
• If you’re using an oven, preheat it before adding your pork shoulder and avoid opening the oven until it’s almost done – this will help to preserve the temperature and ensure even cooking.
• To lock in moisture, cover the roast with foil while it cooks.
• For optimal flavor, let your roast rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing into it. This will allow all of those delicious juices to settle back into the meat.

Serving suggestions for cooked pork shoulder at 350

Once you’ve cooked pork shoulder at 350 degrees, there are a variety of ways to serve it. We suggest trying one of these tasty ideas:

• Pulled pork sandwiches with coleslaw
• Pork tacos topped with fresh salsa
• Pork carnitas served with rice and beans
• Chopped pork stir fry
• Grilled pork skewers with grilled vegetables
• Pork stew served over mashed potatoes
• Rotisserie pork shoulder with gravy and roasted vegetables.

How to store cooked pork shoulder at 350

If you have leftovers of cooked pork shoulder, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can also freeze it for up to three months. To reheat the meat, place it in a preheated oven at 325 degrees and cook until it’s heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave – just make sure to cover it with a damp paper towel or plastic wrap first.

Conclusion: How long to cook pork shoulder at 350?

Cooking pork shoulder at 350 degrees is a great way to ensure it’s cooked through and the fat and connective tissues are broken down. Depending on the weight of your roast, plan for about 2 hours of cooking time in the oven or 5-6 minutes per side on the stovetop. Always use a thermometer to check that it’s cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees before serving. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer and reheated when needed.

FAQ: Cook pork shoulder

Can you overcook pork shoulder?

If you leave pork shoulder in the smoker for too long, it can become dry and tough. While slow smoking at a low temperature can result in deliciously tender meat, be cautious not to exceed the recommended cooking time.

What temperature do you stop cooking pork shoulder?

Discover the ideal temperature to cook pork shoulder for maximum flavor. Experts recommend reaching an optimal temperature of 203°F (95°C) to achieve outstanding tastiness. While consuming pork shoulder cooked to 145°F (63°C) is safe, it unfortunately lacks the deliciousness we seek.

How long does it take to cook a 1 kg pork shoulder?

Master the art of cooking a mouthwatering 1 kg pork shoulder effortlessly. Achieve culinary perfection by setting your oven to 180°C and allotting 30-35 minutes per kg, tailored to your desired taste.

How do you not overcook pork shoulder?

Tips to avoid overcooking pork shoulder: Preserve the flavorful juices, fat drippings, or cooking liquid while preparing your pork shoulder, especially for those who tend to be forgetful during the cooking process.

Should I cover pork shoulder in the oven while cooking?

Achieve perfect pork shoulder by cooking it uncovered in the oven. This method creates a deliciously crispy exterior, while maintaining a tender and easily fall-apart inside.

How long to cook a pork shoulder in the oven at 250?

For tender and flavorful pork, cook a 2-3 pound pork shoulder in the oven at 250 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 6-7 hours. Allow approximately 1 hour per pound of meat, adjusting cooking time for the size of the pork shoulder.

Does pork shoulder get softer the longer you cook it?

Unlike lean cuts like tenderloin and chops, pork shoulder is remarkably forgiving. With each passing minute on the heat, it becomes more tender and succulent. Embrace a longer cook time without fear of ruining your dish – even if you leave it on a few minutes too many, you’ll still enjoy a juicy and flavorful result.

Can you speed up cooking a pork shoulder?

Enhance cooking time for pork shoulder: Increase the efficiency of cooking by wrapping a double layer of aluminum foil tightly around the top of the pan, ensuring a sealed environment. This technique effectively retains heat, resulting in faster pork cooking. Rest assured, you can still monitor the meat temperature by inserting a probe before wrapping.

What happens if you don’t let pork shoulder rest after cooking?

Learn why it’s crucial to give your pork shoulder or Boston butt time to rest before indulging. Avoid disappointing results and prevent the risk of burning your fingers with this simple practice.

Which is the best cooking method for a pork shoulder?

Unveil the perfect cooking technique for achieving exceptionally tender pork shoulder. Achieve optimal results by roasting it in the oven, uncovered, for an hour per pound of meat.