Learn How Long to Cook a Pork Shoulder

Grilling pork shoulder takes time — but when done right, it’s one of the most flavorful cuts you can throw on the grill. 

Whether you’re slow-smoking it for pulled pork or grilling it hot and fast for a crispy bark, knowing the right cooking time is key. 

Let’s break it down step by step.

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Grilling a Pork Shoulder: The Basics

Pork shoulder is a large, tough cut packed with fat and connective tissue.

That’s why it needs low, steady heat and patience. 

On a gas grill, it’s best to cook it using indirect heat, where only one side of the burners is on and the pork sits on the cool side.

The ideal grill temperature?

 👉 350°F gives you a nice balance of speed and tenderness.

So, How Long to Grill a Pork Shoulder at 350°F?

At 350°F, pork shoulder cooks faster than low-and-slow methods, but still gives you juicy, tender meat.

💡 General Rule of Thumb: 30–40 minutes per pound at 350°F using indirect heat on a gas grill.

That means if you’re grilling a:

• 4 lb pork shoulder, cook for 2 to 2.5 hours

• 6 lb pork shoulder, cook for 3 to 4 hours

• 8 lb pork shoulder, cook for 4 to 5.5 hours

Always check internal temperature, not just time.

What’s the Correct Internal Temp for Pork Shoulder?

Cook your pork shoulder until it hits:

👉 195°F to 205°F internal temperature

That’s when the collagen has melted and the meat becomes pull-apart tender. 

Use a meat thermometer to be sure.

Explore Our Guide For More Insights: What is the Perfect Temperature of Cooked Meat in Celsius?

Grilling Tip: Use a Temperature Guide Magnet

Keeping track of pork temps while flipping burgers and checking sides? 

Easy to miss. 

That’s why many grillers use a BBQ temperature magnet like Easy Function’s Meat Temperature Chart Magnet. 

Stick it right on your grill or fridge for a quick check without fumbling through your phone.

Super handy for pork shoulder and every other meat too.

Buy Easy Function Meat Temp Guide - Amazon Canada

Buy Easy Function Meat Temp Guide - Amazon USA

Should You Wrap Pork Shoulder While Grilling?

If your pork shoulder is getting too dark before it's done, you can wrap it in foil (also called the “Texas Crutch”) around the 160°F mark.

This traps moisture and speeds up the final stretch.

But wrapping is optional — some pitmasters skip it for a crustier bark.

Direct vs. Indirect Heat: Which Is Right?

Always go indirect for pork shoulder.

That means only turn on one side of the gas grill and place the pork on the unlit side. 

Close the lid and let it roast.

Why?

Direct heat will burn the outside before the inside is even close to ready.

How to Know It’s Done (Besides Temp)

Aside from hitting 195°F+, here’s how you know your pork shoulder is ready:

• A fork twists easily into the meat

• Bone pulls out clean (if it’s bone-in)

• Juices run clear, not pink

Optional Step: Finish with High Heat for Bark

Once your pork shoulder is cooked, you can crank up the heat for the last 5–10 minutes to crisp up the bark. 

Just keep an eye on it — burnt bark isn’t tasty.

Resting Is Not Optional

After grilling, let your pork shoulder rest for at least 20–30 minutes.

This keeps the juices inside so it doesn’t dry out when you slice or pull it.

Can You Grill Pork Shoulder Like a Steak?

You can, but it’s not ideal. 

Pork shoulder is too tough for quick, direct grilling. 

If you want fast pork cuts for hot grilling, go with pork chops or tenderloin instead.

Final Thoughts

Grilling pork shoulder is all about time + temp. 

At 350°F, give it 30–40 minutes per pound. 

Use a meat thermometer to hit that magic 195°F to 205°F zone, and don’t forget to rest before serving.

Want to make the process easier? 

Click the image below to check out our grilling magnets and tools designed for BBQ lovers like you.

👉 Explore the full Easy Function lineup for smarter BBQ grilling!