There’s something incredibly satisfying about the smell of slow-roasted pork wafting through the house, even on an ordinary night. As soon as I slide the pork shoulder into the oven, anticipation builds—what will emerge in a few hours is not just a dish, but a warm hug for the soul. This recipe, with its melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and crispy crust, is the ultimate comfort food that transforms weeknight dinners into something special.

Not only is it budget-friendly and effortlessly simple, but the versatility of this pork shoulder allows you to serve it in countless ways—whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving a hearty meal for the family. If you’re ready to bid farewell to fast food and welcome homemade warmth into your kitchen, let me guide you through crafting this delightfully rich and flavorful dish that promises to become a cherished staple.

Why You’ll Love Slow Roasted Pork

Simplicity at its Best: This Slow Roasted Pork recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.

Melt-in-Your-Mouth Tenderness: Experience the incredible tenderness that comes from low and slow cooking—a true delight for your taste buds.

Budget-Friendly Comfort: Perfect for any budget, this dish transforms an affordable cut of meat into a gourmet experience.

Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a classic meal, or repurpose leftovers into tacos, sandwiches, or hearty breakfasts.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Impress friends and family with a rich, savory taste that makes any gathering feel special.

With all these reasons to adore this recipe, it’s time to dive in and bring the joy of slow-roasted pork to your table!

Slow Roasted Pork Ingredients

For the Pork
• Pork Shoulder – Bone-in, about 3-4 pounds; this cut ensures melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and rich flavor.

For the Spice Rub
• Smoked Paprika – 2 tablespoons; adds depth and a vibrant color, or use regular paprika for milder heat.
• Garlic Powder – 1 tablespoon; for a robust savory flavor, though fresh garlic is a tasty alternative.
• Onion Powder – 1 tablespoon; enhances sweetness and overall taste profile.
• Brown Sugar – 1 tablespoon; perfect for caramelization, with honey or maple syrup as substitutes.
• Dried Thyme – 2 teaspoons; brings aromatic notes to the dish, while fresh thyme is also delightful.
• Black Pepper – 1 teaspoon; provides a mild kick and rich flavor.
• Salt – 1 teaspoon; crucial for seasoning, feel free to adjust according to your taste.

For Braising Liquid
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – 1 cup; maintains moisture in the pork, swap with vegetable or beef broth if desired.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – 1/4 cup; tenderizes the meat and adds a tangy kick; white vinegar makes a good substitute.
• Bay Leaves – 2 leaves; infuse the braising liquid with aromatic goodness for added flavor.

Embrace the joy of making Slow Roasted Pork with these essential ingredients, and get ready for a heartwarming culinary experience!

How to Make Slow Roasted Pork

Preheat the Oven: Start by setting your oven to 300°F (150°C). A low temperature ensures that the pork becomes tender while developing flavor slowly.
Prepare Spice Rub: In a mixing bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to create a flavorful spice mix.
Season Pork: Take the pork shoulder and pat it dry with paper towels. Generously rub the spice mixture all over the meat, making sure it’s coated evenly for optimal taste.
Sear the Pork: Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter, then brown the pork shoulder on all sides for about 2-3 minutes each. This step locks in the juices and enhances flavor.
Prepare for Roasting: Place the seasoned pork on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Combine the chicken broth and apple cider vinegar, then pour this mixture around the pork—this will keep it moist while roasting.
Cover and Roast: Cover the pork with a lid or aluminum foil. Roast in the oven for 3-4 hours, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 200-205°F (93-96°C) and is super tender.
Rest the Pork: Once done, remove the pork from the oven and allow it to rest for 15-20 minutes. This step is crucial as it lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
Serve: After resting, shred the pork using two forks, drizzle some of the cooking juices over it, and serve immediately for a delicious meal.

Optional: Top with fresh herbs for an added burst of flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Slow Roasted Pork

Choose the Right Cut: Opt for a well-marbled pork shoulder, as this enhances tenderness and flavor. Avoid leaner cuts which can dry out.
Low and Slow Cooking: Stick to a low oven temperature of 300°F (150°C). This method ensures the meat melts in your mouth instead of becoming tough.
Avoid Frequent Peeking: Opening the oven door releases heat. Keep it closed to maintain a consistent cooking temperature for perfectly cooked slow roasted pork.
Resting is Key: Allow the pork to rest after roasting. This simple step ensures juiciness, as it lets the meat absorb its flavorful juices back in.
Use a Meat Thermometer: An instant-read thermometer is your best friend. Aim for an internal temperature of 200-205°F (93-96°C) for optimal tenderness.
Save Those Leftovers: Don’t let any of that delicious slow roasted pork go to waste! Use leftovers creatively in tacos, sandwiches, or breakfast hash for delightful meals.

Make Ahead Options

These Slow Roasted Pork Shoulder preparations are a game-changer for busy home cooks! You can season and sear the pork up to 24 hours in advance; simply rub it with the spice mixture and brown it, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat, making it even tastier. When you’re ready to serve, place the marinated pork on a wire rack, add the broth and vinegar, then cover and roast it as instructed. Trust me, it will be just as delicious and save you precious time on a hectic day!

What to Serve with Slow Roasted Pork Shoulder?

Transform your hearty pork dish into a memorable meal with delightful sides that complement its rich flavors.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of mashed potatoes pairs perfectly, soaking up the delicious juices from the pork for ultimate comfort.
Tangy Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch adds a bright contrast, cutting through the richness of the pork while providing a satisfying texture.
Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Enhance the meal with sweet, caramelized veggies that add warmth and a pop of color, creating a feast for the eyes as well.
Buttermilk Cornbread: This fluffy cornbread offers a sweet, buttery flavor and serves as the perfect vessel for any remaining juices.
Savory Gravy: A rich, homemade gravy drizzled over the pork and sides elevates the dish, delivering extra layers of comfort and flavor.
Crisp Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a zesty vinaigrette contrasts beautifully against the tender slow roasted pork, refreshing every bite.
Cider or Beer: Pair your meal with an apple cider or a light beer to enhance the meal’s depth, bringing an inviting touch to your dining experience.
Chocolate Cake: For dessert, indulge in a rich chocolate cake that balances the savory notes with its sweetness, leaving everyone satisfied.

Slow Roasted Pork Pairings

There’s magic in how certain side dishes can elevate a loving meal, making it a memorable experience for everyone at the table.

Coleslaw: A creamy, tangy coleslaw offers a delightful contrast to the rich, savory pork, balancing flavors beautifully. It’s the crunch every meal deserves!
Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with the smoky notes of the pork, perfect for soaking up those delicious juices.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and potatoes add a colorful and healthy touch to your table, enriching the overall meal experience.
Mac and Cheese: Indulge in creamy, cheesy macaroni as a comforting side that both kids and adults will adore, wrapping everyone in a warm embrace of flavor.
BBQ Baked Beans: For a filling side, savory BBQ baked beans complement the pork’s deliciousness while creating that nostalgic, backyard cookout vibe.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Soft, buttery mashed potatoes make for an ultimate comfort pairing, perfect for catching all the flavorful juices from the pork.

These sides not only enhance the deliciousness of the Slow Roasted Pork but also create a feast that will linger in your memories long after the last bite. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Storage Tips for Slow Roasted Pork

Fridge: Store leftover slow roasted pork in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps it fresh and ready for quick meals throughout the week.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the pork tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last for 2-3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat the pork on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth to keep it moist and delicious.

Thawing: Always thaw frozen slow roasted pork in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture and taste.

Slow Roasted Pork Shoulder Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when choosing a pork shoulder?
Absolutely! When selecting a pork shoulder, aim for a bone-in cut weighing about 3-4 pounds. Look for well-marbled meat, which means it has small streaks of fat running through it. This fat ensures that the pork stays juicy and tender during cooking. A skin-on cut is perfect if you’re after that crispy texture on the outside!

How should I store leftover slow roasted pork?
After enjoying your meal, store any leftover slow roasted pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just wrap the pork tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently.

Can I freeze slow roasted pork, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your slow roasted pork, first, ensure it’s completely cooled down. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, sealing it well to prevent air from getting in. Place the wrapped pork in a freezer-safe container or bag and label it with the date. When freezing, pork can be stored for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight. You can reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist!

What if my slow roasted pork comes out tough?
Very! If your pork turned out tough, it usually means it wasn’t cooked long enough or at too high a temperature. For melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, it should ideally cook at a low temperature (300°F/150°C) for 3-4 hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 200-205°F (93-96°C). Using a meat thermometer is a great way to monitor doneness efficiently. If you encounter this issue often, you might want to try cooking it for an extra hour next time.

Is slow roasted pork safe for pets?
While slow roasted pork can be delicious for us, it’s important to keep our furry friends in mind! Plain, cooked pork can be safe for dogs in moderation, but avoid giving them any bones, seasonings, or marinades, as these can harm them. Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new foods into your pet’s diet!

What dietary restrictions should I consider with slow roasted pork?
Great question! The core ingredients of slow roasted pork are generally considered safe, but it’s always best to check for allergies. Some people may need to avoid pork altogether due to dietary restrictions or religious beliefs. Additionally, if using store-bought spice mixes, be aware of sodium content and potential allergens. For gluten-free diets, ensure your broth and any other sauces used are gluten-free.