How To Cook Pork Butt On Pellet Grill

Mastering the Art of Cooking Pork Butt on a Pellet Grill

Are you eager to impress your friends and family with mouthwatering, fall-off-the-bone pork butt? Look no further! With the help of a pellet grill, you can achieve perfectly cooked pork that will have everyone begging for seconds. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of cooking pork butt on a pellet grill, ensuring delicious results every time.

Choose the Right Cut of Pork Butt

The key to a successful pork butt cook is selecting the right cut of meat. For this recipe, we recommend choosing a bone-in pork butt with a good amount of fat marbling. The fat will render during the cooking process, keeping the meat moist and adding flavor.

Prepare the Pork Butt

Now that you have the perfect cut of pork butt, it’s time to prepare it for cooking. Start by trimming off any excess fat, leaving a thin layer on top. Next, apply a generous amount of your favorite rub, ensuring every inch of the meat is covered. Allow the rub to penetrate the meat by letting it sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour, but overnight if possible.

Preheat and Set Up Your Pellet Grill

While the pork butt is marinating, preheat your pellet grill to a temperature of 225°F (107°C). Pellet grills are known for their temperature control, making them an excellent choice for long, slow cooks. Set up your grill for indirect cooking by placing a drip pan below where you’ll position the pork butt.

Add Flavor with Wood Pellets

One of the advantages of cooking on a pellet grill is the wide range of wood pellet flavors available. Choose wood pellets that complement the flavors you want to infuse into your pork butt. Popular options include hickory, apple, cherry, or mesquite. Soak the wood pellets according to the manufacturer’s instructions and add them to the pellet hopper.

Slow and Steady Cooking Process

Once your pellet grill has reached the desired temperature and the wood pellets are smoking, it’s time to cook the pork butt. Carefully place the prepared meat directly on the grill grates, above the drip pan. Close the lid and let the magic happen.

For the best results, maintain a constant cooking temperature of 225°F (107°C) throughout the cooking process. Plan for approximately 1.5 hours of cooking time per pound of pork butt. Be patient; the low and slow method will reward you with tender, flavorful meat.

Keep an Eye on the Internal Temperature

It’s important to monitor the internal temperature of the pork butt as it cooks. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, making sure it doesn’t touch the bone. When the temperature reaches around 195°F (90°C), it’s time to check for doneness. The meat should be tender, allowing for easy shredding.

However, every piece of meat is unique, and some pork butts may require additional cooking time. If the internal temperature hasn’t reached the desired tenderness, close the lid and continue cooking, checking the temperature every 15-20 minutes.

Rest and Serve Your Perfectly Cooked Pork Butt

Once your pork butt has reached the ideal internal temperature and tenderness, remove it from the pellet grill and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and moist final product.

After the resting period, it’s time to get ready to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Use forks or meat claws to shred the pork butt, discarding any excess fat. Serve it on warm buns with your favorite BBQ sauce, or pair it with a tangy coleslaw for a delightful combination of flavors.

Conclusion

With a pellet grill and a little patience, you can elevate your pork butt cooking game to new heights. Remember to choose the right cut of pork, prepare it with a flavorful rub, and let it cook slowly on the pellet grill until it reaches the desired tenderness. Your effort will be rewarded with tender, juicy, and flavorful pork butt that will have everyone at the table coming back for more!