This Easy Oven-Roasted Pork Barbecue is a treat with tender, juicy pork coated in tangy sauce. It’s simple to make, and your kitchen will smell fantastic!
If you’re like me, you’ll want to load up on that sweet sauce! I love serving it with some crunchy coleslaw on the side. It’s a total winner for family dinners! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for slow roasting and becomes super tender. If you can’t find pork shoulder, any fatty cut like pork butt or even a brisket will work well. Just ensure it’s something that can handle low and slow cooking.
Barbecue Sauce: I love a homemade sauce, but a good store-bought variety works beautifully too. If you’re watching your sugar intake, look for low-sugar options or make your own with tomato sauce and spices for healthy customization.
Cayenne Pepper: This adds a nice kick. If you prefer milder flavors, feel free to leave it out, or try smoked paprika as a flavorful alternative that provides depth without heat.
Brown Sugar: A great way to add sweetness and caramelization. If you don’t have brown sugar, you can substitute with white sugar or honey, adjusting the amount for sweetness. Maple syrup is another good option!
How Do I Make Sure the Pork is Tender and Juicy?
The key to tender, juicy pork is cooking it low and slow. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Preheat your oven properly—this ensures even cooking across the cut.
- Keep the pork uncovered for the first part of cooking to develop a nice crust, then cover it with barbecue sauce in the final stages for a sticky glaze.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C). This indicates it’s perfect for shredding.
- Let the meat rest after taking it out of the oven; this helps keep the juices inside.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve melt-in-your-mouth pork barbecue that’s sure to impress! Enjoy!
Easy Oven-Roasted Pork Barbecue
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt, trimmed of excess fat
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This mouth-watering recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 3.5 to 4 hours of cooking time. You’ll spend a bit waiting for the magic to happen in the oven while the tempting aroma fills your home. In total, it’s about 4 hours but well worth the wait for that tender, juicy pork barbecue!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This steady, moderate heat will ensure the pork cooks evenly.
2. Season the Pork:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Rub this flavorful mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to cover all sides. This will lock in the flavor and create a delicious crust.
3. Prepare for Roasting:
Place the seasoned pork in a roasting pan or a baking dish. Drizzle olive oil over the pork to help keep it moist while roasting.
4. Roast the Pork:
Pop the pork into the preheated oven and roast it uncovered for about 3 to 3.5 hours. The goal is for the internal temperature to reach 190°F (88°C), which means it will be nice and tender, ready to pull apart with ease.
5. Add the Barbecue Sauce:
About 30 minutes before the pork is done, brush a generous amount of barbecue sauce over the entire surface of the pork. This step will give it a lovely, sticky glaze.
6. Raise the Temperature:
To finish off, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (204°C) and roast the pork for an additional 20 to 30 minutes. Baste with more barbecue sauce every 10 minutes during this time to create an amazing caramelized coating.
7. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, take the pork out of the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This resting time is important as it helps retain the juices.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
After resting, slice or shred the pork as desired. Serve it with additional barbecue sauce and your favorite sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Now you have a fantastic Easy Oven-Roasted Pork Barbecue recipe that’s sure to impress family and friends at any gathering! Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Oven-Roasted Pork Barbecue
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes, you can! While pork shoulder is ideal for slow roasting due to its fat content, you can also use pork butt or even spare ribs. Just adjust the cooking time based on the meat’s thickness and type—leaner cuts will cook faster and require less time.
What if I Don’t Have Any Barbecue Sauce?
No worries! You can make a quick homemade barbecue sauce using a mix of ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and your favorite spices. Combine equal parts ketchup and vinegar, add the sugar, and adjust seasoning to your taste for a tasty alternative!
How Should I Store Leftover Pulled Pork?
Store any leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm up in the oven or on the stovetop, adding a splash of barbecue sauce to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! You can cook the seasoned pork on low for 8 to 10 hours in a slow cooker. Follow the same steps for adding barbecue sauce and finishing with high heat for caramelization if desired. The result will be equally delicious!
