Oven Roasted Pulled Pork

Oven-roasted pulled pork recipe made with pork shoulder, smoked spices, mustard, and beer for a slow-cooked, tender, and juicy result. This homemade pulled pork is perfect for BBQ sandwiches, tacos, burgers, and family-style meals. Easy oven-baked preparation delivers melt-in-your-mouth meat with rich, deep flavor, ideal for gatherings, meal prep, and comforting dinner ideas. A classic American-style pork recipe designed for low and slow cooking, offering a perfectly shredded texture and well-balanced seasoning for versatile serving options.

Ingredients

• 6 lb boneless pork shoulder
• ¼ cup yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 12 oz bottle beer (any kind you like)

To serve:

• 1 tsp salt
• BBQ sauce

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven:
   Set the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the pork:
   Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick better.
3. Add mustard layer:
   Coat the entire pork shoulder with yellow mustard using your hands or a brush.
4. Mix spices:
   In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, thyme, and cumin.
5. Season the meat:
   Rub the spice mixture all over the pork, pressing it in so it adheres well.
6. Place in roasting pan:
   Transfer the pork to a deep roasting dish.
7. Add liquid:
   Pour the beer around the pork (not over it) to keep the seasoning intact.
8. Cover and bake:
   Cover tightly with foil (without touching the meat) and bake for 3½ to 4 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 203°F (95°C). Remove foil for the last 30 minutes to allow browning.
9. Rest and shred:
   Let the pork rest for 30 minutes before shredding. Remove excess fat.
10. Finish:
    Sprinkle with salt, toss well, and serve with BBQ sauce.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Produces tender, juicy pulled pork with deep flavor
• Simple preparation using pantry spices
• Ideal for feeding a crowd or meal prep
• Works well for sandwiches, tacos, or bowls

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Tips

• Don’t skip the resting time; it keeps the meat juicy
• Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness
• Cover tightly with foil to lock in moisture
• Shred while warm for easier handling

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Variations and Substitutions

• Replace beer with apple juice, chicken broth, or cola
• Adjust spice level by increasing or removing red pepper flakes
• Use pork butt if shoulder is unavailable
• Add liquid smoke for a deeper smoky flavor

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FAQs

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook on low for 8–10 hours until tender enough to shred.

Can I freeze pulled pork?
Yes, store in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.

What temperature is best for pulled pork?
The ideal internal temperature is around 203°F for easy shredding.

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Serving

Serve the shredded pork on buns with BBQ sauce for sandwiches, or use it in tacos, burritos, loaded fries, or rice bowls.

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Suggestions

• Add coleslaw for a crunchy contrast
• Serve with pickles for extra tang
• Pair with cornbread or roasted potatoes
• Use leftovers for sliders or nachos