Recipe Overview
- Difficulty: Simple
- Makes: About 2 pounds of cooked pork
- Nutrition Facts (per serving - serves 12):
- Calories: 302
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 81mg
- Sodium: 365mg
- Total Time: 4 hours 55 minutes
- Preparation: 5 minutes
- Rest Time: 30 minutes
- Bake Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Imagine the irresistible aroma of tender, juicy pork shoulder filling your kitchencrispy on the outside, fall-apart soft inside. This foolproof recipe delivers melt-in-your-mouth perfection with minimal effort, turning a humble cut into a showstopping meal that begs to be shared.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped garlic
- Kosher salt and fresh black pepper
- 1 piece pork shoulder (about 4 pounds)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 425F and get ready for magic.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper into a fragrant rub. Generously coat every inch of the pork shoulder with your hands or a brushfeel the anticipation build!
- Place the pork on a rack in a roasting pan and slide it into the oven for 20 minutes. Drop the heat to 325F (no need to remove the pan) and roast until a thermometer in the thickest part hits 185Fabout 4 more hours of slow, succulent bliss.
- Remove the pan, tent loosely with foil, and let the pork rest for 30 minutes. This step locks in juices for the most tender bite you'll ever savor.
Notes
- The initial blast of high heat creates a golden, flavorful crust, while low-and-slow cooking ensures every fiber melts with tenderness.
- Resting makes it juicier and slice-readypatience pays off in pure deliciousness!
- Shred or slice for epic tacos, sandwiches, salads, or pair with your favorite sides.
Tips for Best Results
- Elevate the rub with thyme, rosemary, or your boldest spice blend for next-level flavor.
- Let pork sit at room temp 30 minutes pre-roast for even, edge-to-edge cooking.
- For crackly skin, uncover in the fridge overnightcrisp perfection awaits.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair slices or shreds with roasted veggies, creamy mash, or fresh salad for a feast.
- Transform leftovers into stellar sandwiches, rice bowls, or tacosendless yum!
