How Long to Smoke a Pork Shoulder
Low, slow, and impossibly tender.
Pork shoulder (also called picnic shoulder) is the lower portion of the front leg — slightly leaner than pork butt but equally delicious. A 6–8 lb bone-in pork shoulder takes 12–14 hours at 225°F. Like pork butt, the target is 200–205°F for pulled pork, or 185°F for sliceable pork shoulder.
Step-by-Step Cook Schedule
Score the skin/fat cap in a crosshatch pattern. Apply mustard binder and dry rub. Refrigerate overnight.
Smoke at 225°F until bark is set and internal temp hits 165°F. Spritz with apple juice every 2 hours.
Wrap in butcher paper or foil. Return to smoker until probe-tender.
Rest in a cooler wrapped in towels for at least 1 hour before pulling.
Pitmaster Tips
Pork shoulder has more skin than pork butt — score it deeply for better rub penetration.
The skin can be crisped up at the end by placing it over direct heat for a few minutes.
For sliceable pork shoulder, pull at 185°F instead of 200°F.
Hickory gives a stronger smoke flavor than apple — great for pork shoulder.
Recommended Gear for Pork Shoulder
Bold, classic smoke flavor that pairs perfectly with pork shoulder.
Monitor your pork shoulder's temp from anywhere in the house.
Try 6 different rubs to find your perfect pork shoulder flavor.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to smoke a 7 lb pork shoulder?
At 225°F, a 7 lb pork shoulder takes approximately 10–14 hours. At 250°F, expect 8–11 hours. Always cook to internal temperature (200–205°F for pulled pork) rather than time.
What is the difference between pork shoulder and pork butt?
Pork butt (Boston butt) comes from the upper shoulder and has more intramuscular fat, making it ideal for pulled pork. Pork shoulder (picnic shoulder) is the lower portion with more connective tissue and skin. Both are excellent for smoking.
What temperature should smoked pork shoulder be?
For pulled pork, cook to 200–205°F. For sliceable pork shoulder, pull at 185°F. The probe test (thermometer slides in with no resistance) is the most reliable indicator.