Pork Shoulder Cook Time Calculator — Smoking Time for Pulled Pork

Calculate how long to smoke pork shoulder or butt for perfect pulled pork every time.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long to smoke an 8 lb pork shoulder?
At 250°F, an 8-pound pork shoulder (butt) takes approximately 10–14 hours to reach 195–205°F internal temperature. Cook time varies significantly — always go by internal temperature, not time.
What internal temperature for pulled pork?
Pull pork shoulder at 195–205°F. At 195°F it's technically done and safe, but the collagen isn't fully broken down. At 200–205°F, the meat pulls apart effortlessly. Use the probe test — it should slide in with zero resistance.
Should I wrap pork shoulder when smoking?
Wrapping in butcher paper or foil at ~165°F helps push through the stall and preserves moisture. Butcher paper (the Aaron Franklin method) keeps more bark texture than foil.
Bone-in vs boneless pork shoulder for smoking?
Both work great. Bone-in shoulder (Boston butt) may cook slightly slower but many pitmasters prefer the flavor. Boneless is easier to inject and wrap. The bone provides a built-in doneness indicator — when it wiggles freely, the pork is done.

Specific Guides

Jump to a guide tailored to your exact situation:

5 lb Pork Shoulder 8 lb Pork Shoulder 10 lb Pork Shoulder At 250°F

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