What Is Pork Butt and Why Is It Called That
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Pork butt confuses a lot of beginners. The name makes it sound like it comes from the rear of the pig. It does not.
Pork butt actually comes from the shoulder, and it is one of the best cuts you can smoke.
Understanding this cut will help you choose better meat and cook it with confidence.
Where Pork Butt Comes From
Pork butt comes from the upper portion of the pig’s shoulder. It sits above the picnic shoulder and includes part of the shoulder blade.
Because this area gets a lot of use, it contains:
- Strong muscle fibers
- Plenty of connective tissue
- Excellent marbling
- A generous amount of intramuscular fat
When cooked low and slow, that connective tissue breaks down and turns into rich gelatin. That is what makes pulled pork juicy and tender.
If you want the complete cooking method, see my full guide on how to smoke a pork butt.
Why Is It Called Pork Butt?
The name has nothing to do with the rear of the pig.
Historically, shoulder cuts were packed into large storage barrels called butts. Over time, the shoulder meat stored in those barrels became known as pork butt.
So despite the name, pork butt is pork shoulder.
Pork Butt vs Pork Shoulder vs Picnic Shoulder
These terms are often used loosely, but there are differences.
Pork Butt
- Upper shoulder
- More marbling
- Often sold bone in
- Best choice for pulled pork
Picnic Shoulder
- Lower shoulder
- Leaner
- Often sold with skin attached
- Slightly firmer texture
Whole Shoulder
- Includes both butt and picnic
For smoking and pulling, pork butt is usually the most forgiving option.
How Big Is a Pork Butt?
Most pork butts weigh between 6 and 10 pounds.
After trimming and cooking, expect about 50 to 60 percent yield depending on fat content and trimming.
If you are planning for a crowd, read my guide on how much pork butt per person.
Why Pork Butt Is Perfect for Smoking
Pork butt is extremely beginner friendly.
It works well because:
- The fat protects it from drying out
- It tolerates temperature swings
- It cooks well at 225 or 275
- It is hard to ruin when cooked properly
If you are unsure about cooking temperature, see my article on the best temperature for smoking pork butt.
Bone In or Boneless?
Bone in is preferred by most pitmasters.
Reasons include:
- Slightly better moisture retention
- Added flavor
- The bone wiggle test helps determine doneness
Boneless works fine too, especially if slicing.
If you need help picking the right one at the store, read my guide on how to choose the best pork butt.
Is Pork Butt the Same as Boston Butt?
Yes.
Boston butt, pork butt, and pork shoulder butt all refer to the same upper shoulder cut.
Final Thoughts
Pork butt is not from the rear of the pig. It is the upper shoulder, and it happens to be one of the best cuts in barbecue.
It is affordable, forgiving, and packed with flavor. Once you understand what it is, the next step is learning how to choose a good one and cook it properly.
Start with my guide on how to choose the best pork butt at the store.
