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How to Make Smoked Pork Butt That's Fall-Apart Tender With a Crunchy Crust

If you want to get into the smoking game but are intimidated by tough cuts like brisket, the pork shoulder is the best place to start.

This article was published in partnership with 5-hour ENERGY

Smoked pork butt is a staple of barbecue in America and one of the easiest cuts of meat for those new to smoking (you'll want to invest in one of the best smokers). This oversized cut has enough fat to stay moist and tender through the long cooking process required to break down its copious, flavor-infusing connective tissue.

Because pork butt is large—usually between six to 10 pounds—it’s also great for feeding a crowd, which is another reason for its ubiquity at backyard barbecues. If there’s a downside, it’s the extended cooking time, which requires planning a day in advance.