Bbq Pork Shoulder Recipe

Experience the legendary taste of Kansas City BBQ with this mouthwatering pork shoulder recipe! Slow-cooked to perfection, this fall-apart tender masterpiece boasts an unforgettable smoky flavor. Plan ahead for a 16-hour cooking journey (plus overnight marinades!), but trust us – the incredible results are worth every minute. Prepare for rave reviews! This recipe delivers an authentic Kansas City BBQ experience you won't soon forget. Impress your friends and family with this showstopper.

Prep Time 60 mins
Cook Time 1980 mins
Calories 1029.2 kcal
Protein 121g
Rating 4.1 (10 Reviews)
Bbq Pork Shoulder

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Bbq Pork Shoulder

  • 3-4 lb boneless pork shoulder
  • Brown Sugar
  • Paprika
  • Pepper
  • Kosher Salt
  • Garlic Powder
  • Onion Powder
  • Celery Seed
  • Cayenne Pepper
  • Ginger
  • Turmeric
  • Cider Vinegar
  • Onion
  • Red Pepper Flakes
  • Molasses
  • Dark Corn Syrup
  • Chili Sauce
  • Hot Sauce
  • Worcestershire Sauce

How to Make Bbq Pork Shoulder

  1. **Dry Rub:** In a bowl, combine 2 tbsp paprika, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tbsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp onion powder, 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tbsp salt, 1 tbsp black pepper, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional). Generously rub all over the pork shoulder.
  2. **Marinate:** Cover the rubbed pork shoulder and refrigerate for at least 24 hours (preferably longer).
  3. **Basting Sauce:** In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup apple cider vinegar, ½ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce, 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tbsp liquid smoke, and 1 tsp black pepper.
  4. **Refrigerate Basting Sauce:** Cover the basting sauce and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. **Preheat & Prep:** Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Place the pork shoulder on a rack in a roasting pan.
  6. **Initial Basting:** Brush a generous layer of the basting sauce over the pork shoulder.
  7. **Slow Cook:** Cook for 8-9 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds. Baste the pork shoulder with the remaining basting sauce every hour.
  8. **BBQ Sauce:** While the pork is cooking, prepare the BBQ sauce. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup ketchup, ½ cup apple cider vinegar, ¼ cup brown sugar, 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, and ½ tsp black pepper. Bring to a boil.
  9. **Simmer Sauce:** Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
  10. **Shred & Serve:** Once the pork is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes. Shred the pork with two forks. Serve on buns with the BBQ sauce, coleslaw, and your favorite sides.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

198 g

Sugar

133g

Fat

107g

Carbs

16g

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