How Long to Cook a Pork Butt Roast in the Oven for Fall-Off-The-Bone Meat

Pork butt roast, also known as Boston butt, delivers incredibly moist, flavorful and fork-tender meat when slowly roasted in the oven. But knowing exactly how many hours to cook a pork butt roast can be tricky. Read on for a detailed guide to oven roast times so your pork turns out perfect every time.

Why Roast Pork Butt in the Oven?

While you can certainly smoke or grill pork butt, the oven offers some advantages:

• Ability to cook multiple roasts evenly at once

• Convenience of an automatic oven over outdoor cooking

• Easier temperature regulation than grill or smoker.

• Opportunity for searing at a high temp first

• Hands-free roasting while you do other tasks.

When cooked low and slow, the oven transforms tough pork butt into succulent roasted meat.

Factors that Impact Pork Butt Roast Cook Times

Several variables affect how long pork butt takes to become tender in the oven:

• Size – A 5 lb roast cooks faster than 8 lb one.

• Bone-in or boneless – Boneless cooks slightly quicker.

• Shape – Uniform pieces roast more evenly.

• Meat texture – Tough, dense portions need more time.

• Fat cap – Thick fat cap protects meat, slowing cooking.

• Oven temperature – Lower oven = longer cook time.

• Altitude – Higher altitudes increase cook time.

Considering these factors will help estimate the roasting time needed.

Approximate Oven Cook Times for Pork Butt Roasts

Use these general time ranges as a guide when roasting pork butt at 325°F:

• 3 lbs: 4 – 5 hours

• 5 lbs: 5 – 7 hours

• 7 lbs: 7 – 9 hours

• 8 lbs: 8 – 10 hours

• 10 lbs: 10 – 12 hours

Always rely on an instant-read thermometer over cook times for perfect doneness. Pork butt should reach 195°F-205°F when done. If the meat isn’t yet tender, keep roasting in 30 minute increments until fork-tender.

Step-by-Step Guide to Roast Pork Butt

Follow these simple steps for foolproof oven-roasted pork butt:

1. Prepare and Season the Meat

• Trim excess fat and rub all over with seasoning of choice.
• Let sit for 30 mins up to overnight.

1. Preheat Oven and Pan

• Preheat oven to 325°F. Can place roasting pan inside while preheating.

1. Sear the Pork Butt

• In a hot skillet, sear all sides until well browned.

1. Transfer to Roasting Pan

• Place seared pork fat-side up in pan.

1. Roast Uncovered

• Cook for estimated time, checking tenderness periodically.

1. Rest, Slice and Serve

• Allow to rest 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

Helpful Roasting Tips

• Choose uniform roasts with ample fat marbling.

• Rub seasoning all over entire roast, even the bottom.

• Use a meat thermometer for accurate doneness.

• Let rest 15-20 minutes before slicing for juicier meat.

• Add liquids like broth or apple juice if reheating leftovers.

• Reheat gently to maintain tenderness when serving again.

Ideas for Incredible Flavor

Once you’ve mastered the basic roasting method, get creative with flavors! Consider rubbing the pork butt with:

• Brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic and onion powder

• Jamaican jerk seasoning

• Coffee and ancho chile rub

• Chinese five spice and ginger

• Cumin, oregano, citrus zest

• Kansas City barbecue rub

You can also brush the roast during the last 30 minutes with glazes like:

• Bourbon peach barbecue sauce

• Hoisin, chili garlic sauce, lime

• Pineapple salsa

• Spicy gochujang and honey

• Apple butter and whole grain mustard

The possibilities are endless for crafting your own signature pork butt roast.

Serving Suggestions

Fork-tender oven-roasted pork butt is fantastic served:

• Pulled or chopped in tacos or sandwiches

• Diced in fried rice or pasta dishes

• In burritos, enchiladas, tamales or empanadas

• On nachos, pizza, omelets or hash

• In stews, chili, soups or pot pies

Pair it with classic sides like potato salad, cornbread, coleslaw, beans, mac and cheese, or collard greens.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Properly stored leftover roasted pork butt keeps well:

• Refrigerate for 3-4 days

• Freeze for 2-3 months

• Reheat gently in oven at 325°F until warm

• Add moisture like broth or sauce if needed

Now that you know exactly how long to roast pork butt for melt-in-your-mouth, fall-off-the-bone meat, try this amazing cut of pork. The oven does all the work while you relax and anticipate the incredible flavors.