31 Pork Shoulder Recipes You’ll Want to Make Again and Again

When it comes to flavorful, affordable cuts of meat, pork shoulder is king. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or just looking for comfort food classics, pork shoulder is a versatile and delicious option. From slow-cooked goodness to quick air fryer bites, these 31 pork shoulder recipes are guaranteed to please every palate.

1. Classic Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Start with a timeless favorite. This recipe features pork shoulder rubbed with spices and slow-cooked until it falls apart. Serve it on buns with coleslaw for a hearty sandwich.

2. Oven-Roasted Pork Shoulder

Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside—oven-roasting your pork shoulder with garlic, herbs, and olive oil creates a dinner party-worthy main dish.

3. Cuban Mojo Pork

This citrusy, garlicky Cuban-style pork shoulder is marinated overnight and roasted until the flavors burst. It’s great in tacos, rice bowls, or just on its own.

4. Pork Carnitas

Crispy, golden bits of pork shoulder simmered in orange juice, garlic, and spices—pork carnitas are perfect for tacos, burritos, or nachos.

5. BBQ Pork Shoulder in the Oven

Skip the smoker and make mouthwatering BBQ pork right in your oven. Coat the shoulder in a tangy dry rub, bake low and slow, then smother in your favorite BBQ sauce.

6. Pork Shoulder Ragu

Looking for a cozy Italian dinner? Try braised pork shoulder in a rich tomato sauce over pappardelle. It’s the ultimate Sunday supper.

7. Pressure Cooker Pork Shoulder

Short on time? Use your Instant Pot to make a tender pork shoulder in under 90 minutes. Add broth, onions, and spices for a fast, flavorful meal.

8. Sweet and Spicy Asian Pork

Soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of honey make this pork shoulder recipe sweet, savory, and addictively good.

9. Pork Adobo (Filipino Style)

This tangy-salty Filipino classic simmers pork shoulder in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaves for maximum depth of flavor.

10. Smoked Pork Shoulder

Nothing beats the deep, smoky flavor of a properly smoked pork shoulder. Perfect for backyard BBQs and summer feasts.

11. Mexican Pork Tacos (Tacos al Pastor Style)

Thin slices of marinated pork shoulder mimic traditional al pastor. Grill or sear them, then top with pineapple and onion for a flavor-packed taco night.

12. Pork and Sweet Potato Stew

Pair pork shoulder with sweet potatoes, onion, and a warm blend of spices for a comforting stew ideal for fall or winter.

13. Carolina Pulled Pork

Vinegar-based and packed with spice, this pulled pork version hails from the Carolinas and tastes amazing with simple coleslaw.

14. Garlic Herb Pork Shoulder Roast

Use rosemary, thyme, garlic, and lemon to make this herby pork shoulder that’s perfect for holidays or special occasions.

15. Pork Shoulder Birria

This trendy Mexican stew uses pork shoulder instead of beef for a twist on birria tacos. Serve with consommé for dipping.

16. Crispy Pork Shoulder Bites

Dice and fry leftover pork shoulder for crispy bites perfect as a taco filling or party appetizer.

17. Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder

Braised with apple cider, onions, and sage, this dish is sweet, savory, and irresistibly cozy.

18. Pork Shoulder Chili

Ground pork gets all the love, but using shredded pork shoulder in chili gives it next-level flavor and texture.

19. Teriyaki Pork Shoulder

Cook your pork in a sticky homemade teriyaki sauce and serve over steamed rice with broccoli for a tasty, takeout-style dinner.

20. Pork Pozole Rojo

This traditional Mexican soup with hominy and red chile broth uses pork shoulder as the base for a soul-warming dish.

21. Honey Mustard Glazed Pork Shoulder

Roast pork shoulder slathered in a sweet-tangy honey mustard glaze is easy, elegant, and crowd-pleasing.

22. Pork Shoulder Gyros

Mediterranean meets comfort food. Marinate the pork in yogurt, lemon, and oregano, then roast and serve in warm pita with tzatziki.

23. Braised Pork Shoulder with Red Wine

This elegant, French-inspired dish is perfect for cold nights. Braise pork in red wine, garlic, and thyme for deep, rich flavor.

24. Korean-Inspired Spicy Pork Shoulder

Gochujang, sesame oil, and garlic bring the heat in this bold, fiery recipe. Serve with rice and kimchi for a Korean BBQ-style plate.

25. Maple Dijon Pork Shoulder Roast

Maple syrup and Dijon mustard make a magical pairing in this sweet and tangy pork shoulder recipe that works year-round.

26. Pineapple Pork Shoulder

Slow-cooked with pineapple and soy sauce, this tropical-inspired dish is sweet, tender, and perfect over rice or in sliders.

27. Pork Shoulder Stir Fry

Leftover pork shoulder shines in this quick stir fry with mixed veggies, soy sauce, and garlic.

28. Beer-Braised Pork Shoulder

Use a dark ale or lager to braise your pork, adding rich malty flavor that’s perfect for sandwiches or over mashed potatoes.

29. Cajun-Spiced Pork Shoulder

A spicy dry rub with paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne gives this pork shoulder bold Louisiana-style flavor.

30. Mediterranean Pork Shoulder Bowl

Roast the pork with oregano and lemon, then serve over couscous with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta for a healthy Mediterranean meal.

31. Stuffed Pork Shoulder

For a showstopper dinner, butterfly your pork shoulder and stuff it with spinach, herbs, and cheese before roasting.

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Tips for Cooking the Best Pork Shoulder

Whether you’re roasting, braising, or slow cooking, here are a few pro tips for making the most of your pork shoulder:

• Low and slow is key. Pork shoulder is tough but flavorful. Cooking it slowly breaks down the connective tissue and results in fork-tender meat.
• Don’t trim all the fat. The fat cap keeps the meat juicy and adds flavor.
• Use a meat thermometer. Aim for 190–205°F for pulled pork and 145°F for a firmer roast.
• Rest before slicing. Let your meat rest for at least 10–15 minutes to retain juices.

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Final Thoughts on Pork Shoulder Recipes

From slow cooker favorites to global flavors and weeknight quick-fixes, these 31 pork shoulder recipes prove just how versatile and delicious this cut of meat really is. Whether you prefer spicy, sweet, smoky, or savory, there’s something on this list for every taste and cooking style.

So grab a pork shoulder and get creative—you’re only one recipe away from your next favorite dinner.