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Mission BBQ Pulled Pork Recipe

Mission BBQ Pulled Pork Recipe

Foodie Twist
This Mission BBQ Pulled Pork Recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen using simple techniques and everyday ingredients. 
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

  • Smoker or slow cooker (oven alternative included)
  • Meat thermometer
  • Aluminum foil
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Basting brush
  • Roasting pan (if using oven)

Ingredients
  

For the Dry Rub:

  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp ground mustard
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp kosher salt

For the Pork:

  • 4 –5 lb boneless pork shoulder Boston butt
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar for moisture

For the BBQ Sauce:

  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Prep the Pork Pat the pork shoulder dry and rub olive oil over the surface. Combine all dry rub ingredients and massage generously into the meat. Let it marinate overnight if possible for deeper flavor.

Set Up Your Cooking Method

  • 1: Smoker: Preheat to 225°F using hickory or applewood chips.
  • 2: Oven: Preheat to 300°F and use a roasting pan with a rack.
  • 3: Slow Cooker: Set to low for a hands-off method.
  • Cook Low and Slow Place the pork shoulder in the cooker. If using a smoker or oven, spritz with apple cider vinegar every 1–2 hours. Cook until internal temp reaches 195–205°F (about 6–8 hours).
  • Rest and Pull Remove pork and wrap in foil. Let rest for 30 minutes. Use forks or meat claws to shred the pork.
  • Make the BBQ Sauce Combine all sauce ingredients in a saucepan. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until thickened. Adjust sweetness or spice to taste.
  • Mix and Serve Toss the shredded pork with the desired amount of sauce. Serve on buns, over rice, or on its own.

Notes

  • Use a Meat Thermometer – Always check internal temperature to ensure the pork is cooked to tender perfection.
  • Let It Rest – Resting the meat locks in juices and improves texture.
  • Spritz for Moisture – Apple cider vinegar keeps the meat moist and enhances flavor.
  • Marinate Overnight – This allows the dry rub to deeply penetrate the pork.
  • Don’t Oversauce – Let the pork shine; add BBQ sauce gradually and to taste.
Keyword Mission BBQ Pulled Pork Recipe