How Long To Cook Pork Butt For Medium Rare

If you’re planning to cook a pork butt and prefer it to be medium rare, it’s important to know the right cooking time to achieve your desired level of doneness. Pork butt, also known as pork shoulder, is a delicious and versatile cut of meat that can be cooked in many different ways, including roasting, smoking, or braising.

However, cooking pork butt to medium rare can be slightly tricky since it’s a tougher cut of meat that requires a slow cooking process to become tender and juicy. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at how long to cook pork butt to medium rare and some tips to ensure it turns out perfectly.

How Long to Cook Pork Butt To Medium Rare

Cooking pork butt to medium rare is challenging, but with the right temperature and cooking time, you can achieve a delicious, juicy result. The cooking time and temperature for medium-rare pork butt vary depending on the cooking style and method you choose.

If you’re roasting your pork butt in the oven, you’ll want to preheat the oven to 325°F and roast the meat for about 25-30 minutes per pound. To achieve medium rare, the internal temperature of the pork butt should be around 145°F.

On the other hand, if you’re smoking your pork butt, you’ll want to maintain a smoker temperature of 225°F and smoke the meat for 1 1/2 – 2 hours per pound. The internal temperature of the pork butt should still be around 145°F to achieve medium rare.

If you’re braising your pork butt, you’ll want to cook it on low heat for several hours until it becomes tender and juicy. For medium rare, you’ll want to cook the pork butt until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

How Long Should I Cook Pork Butt To Medium Rare

Cooking a pork butt to medium rare requires a bit of care and attention to ensure the meat is cooked to the right temperature while remaining tender and juicy. Several factors affect the cooking time and temperature, including the size of the pork roast, the cooking method, the recipe, the size of your family, and your dietary preferences.

1. Temperature

To cook a pork butt to medium rare, the internal temperature should be around 145°F. This is considered safe and will give you a slightly pink center. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure that the meat has reached the right temperature, as cooking times can vary depending on the method you choose.

2. Size Of Pork

The size of the pork roast can also affect the cooking time. As a general rule, you’ll want to cook a pork butt for about 25-30 minutes per pound in the oven, or 1 1/2 – 2 hours per pound if smoking the meat. However, if you have a larger or smaller cut of meat, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

3. Recipe 

The recipe you choose can also affect the cooking time and temperature. Some recipes may call for a longer cooking time or a higher temperature, depending on the method and seasoning used. It’s important to follow the recipe instructions carefully to ensure your pork butt turns out perfectly.

4. Family Size 

If you’re cooking for a larger family, you may need to adjust the cooking time or choose a larger cut of meat to ensure everyone is fed. Similarly, if you’re following a specific diet, such as a low-carb or keto diet, you may need to adjust the cooking method or seasoning to fit your dietary preferences.

Cooking Time For The Perfect Medium Rare Cooked Pork Butt

Cooking a pork butt to the perfect medium rare requires the right cooking time and temperature. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the cut of meat and the cooking method applied. To help you achieve the perfect medium rare pork butt, we’ve prepared a table showing various pork butt names and their cooking time, cooking temperature, and internal temperature needed to cook them to medium rare.

Note: The aforementioned cooking times and temperatures are guidelines and may vary depending on your cooking method, equipment, and personal preference.

What Is The Doneness Level For The Perfect Pork Butt Cooked To Medium Rare?

Achieving the perfect level of doneness is important to ensure that the meat is cooked to your liking. Here is a table of different types of pork roast and their corresponding doneness levels:

How To Cook Pork Butt To Medium Rare (Recipe)

Here’s a recipe to cook your pork butt to medium rare:

Ingredients:

• 5-6 pound pork butt roast.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil.
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt.
• 1 tablespoon black pepper.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced.
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary.
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme.

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 325°F.
• Rub the pork butt with olive oil and season it with kosher salt and black pepper.
• Mix the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and chopped thyme in a small bowl.
• Rub the garlic and herb mixture all over the pork butt, making sure to get it in all the crevices and folds.
• Place the pork butt in a roasting pan and cover it with foil.
• Roast the pork butt in the oven for 25-30 minutes per pound or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
• Remove the foil and let the pork butt rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Remember to:

• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork butt to ensure that it has reached 145°F.
• Letting the pork butt rest before slicing will allow the juices to redistribute and make for a more tender and flavorful roast.
• Serve with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

Video

If you want to have a practical learning experience of how to cook pork butt To Medium Rare, watch the video below:

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to cook a pork butt to medium rare?

Cooking time can vary depending on the size of the pork butt, but generally, it takes 25-30 minutes per pound to reach an internal temperature of 145°F.

Can I cook pork butt to medium rare in a slow cooker?

Yes, cooking pork butt to medium rare in a slow cooker is possible. However, it may take longer than cooking in an oven, and the pork may not have the same crust or texture as an oven-roasted pork butt.

Can I eat pork butt that is cooked to medium rare?

Yes, pork butt can be safely consumed when cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F, which is considered medium rare.

Can I use a different seasoning for my pork butt?

Yes, you can use any seasoning you prefer for your pork butt. All you have to do is rub the seasoning in well and evenly distribute it on the meat.

How do I know if my pork butt is cooked to medium rare?

The best way to know if your pork butt is cooked to medium rare is to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The pork butt should read 145°F in the thickest part of the meat.

Conclusion

Cooking pork butt to medium rare can be a delicious and flavorful option for meat lovers. The recommended internal temperature for medium-rare pork butt is 145°F, and cooking time can vary based on the size of the roast. A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your pork butt is perfectly cooked. With the right seasoning and cooking method, pork butt can be a standout dish at any meal.