Short answer: “pork butt” and “pork shoulder” both come from the same general region of the pig – the upper part of the front leg/shoulder – and are often used interchangeably at the grocery store. Technically, pork butt (also called Boston butt) is the upper, fattier portion higher on the shoulder, while pork shoulder (sometimes labeled picnic shoulder) is the lower portion, leaner and with more connective tissue. Both are built for low-and-slow cooking – pulled pork, carnitas, smoked roasts.
Where Each Cut Comes From
Confusingly, “pork butt” has nothing to do with the rear of the pig – it’s named after the barrel (“butt”) it was historically packed in. It’s the upper part of the shoulder, closer to the loin, with more even marbling and fat.
Pork shoulder (picnic shoulder) is the lower portion of the front leg, extending toward the foot. It has more connective tissue and a bit less fat than pork butt, and sometimes includes the skin and a portion of bone.
Pork Shoulder vs. Pork Butt: Side-by-Side
| Factor | Pork Butt (Boston Butt) | Pork Shoulder (Picnic) |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Upper shoulder, near the loin | Lower shoulder, toward the leg |
| Fat content | More marbled, more even fat | Leaner, more connective tissue |
| Shape | Compact, uniform | Triangular, sometimes with skin/bone |
| Best for | Pulled pork, carnitas | Pulled pork, roasts, ground pork |
| Cooking time | Slightly shorter due to more fat | Slightly longer, more connective tissue to break down |
| Price | Comparable, sometimes slightly higher | Comparable, sometimes slightly lower |
Can You Substitute One for the Other?
Yes, in almost every recipe. Pulled pork, carnitas, and smoked pork roasts work with either cut, since both respond the same way to long, slow cooking – low heat breaks down the connective tissue and renders the fat, leaving tender, shreddable meat either way. Many grocery stores label both cuts simply as “pork shoulder,” so don’t worry too much about which exact one you end up with.
How to Cook Pork Shoulder or Pork Butt
- Season generously, often with a dry rub if smoking, well ahead of cooking – even overnight.
- Cook low and slow. 225-250°F in a smoker or oven, until internal temperature hits 195-205°F for pulled pork – this can take 1.5-2 hours per pound.
- Rest before shredding. Let it rest 20-30 minutes wrapped in foil so the juices redistribute.
- Shred or pull with two forks or meat claws once it’s cool enough to handle.
FAQs About Pork Shoulder vs. Pork Butt
Is pork butt the same as pork shoulder?
Not exactly – pork butt is the upper portion of the shoulder (more fat, more uniform shape), while pork shoulder (picnic) is the lower portion (leaner, more connective tissue). Many stores label both as “pork shoulder” regardless.
Which is better for pulled pork, pork butt or pork shoulder?
Both work well. Pork butt’s extra marbling makes it slightly more forgiving and a common default for pulled pork, but pork shoulder produces excellent results too with the same low-and-slow method.
Why is it called pork butt if it’s not from the rear of the pig?
The name comes from how the cut was historically packed and shipped in barrels called “butts” – it has nothing to do with the cut’s anatomical location.
What temperature should pork shoulder or pork butt be cooked to?
For pulled pork, aim for 195-205°F internal, which fully breaks down the connective tissue for easy shredding.
Ready to Order?
Browse Vanbees Meat GA’s pork selection for your next low-and-slow cook.
English 
Arabic