How Many People Will a Boston Butt Feed? And Why Do We Even Measure Food in Butts?

When it comes to feeding a crowd, few cuts of meat are as versatile and satisfying as a Boston butt. This flavorful cut, despite its misleading name (it actually comes from the shoulder of the pig), is a staple for barbecues, family gatherings, and holiday feasts. But the question remains: how many people can a Boston butt actually feed? And while we’re at it, why do we measure food in “butts” anyway? Let’s dive into the meaty details.

Understanding the Boston Butt

First, let’s clarify what a Boston butt is. This cut comes from the upper part of the pig’s shoulder and is well-marbled with fat, making it ideal for slow cooking. When cooked properly, it becomes tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. A typical Boston butt weighs between 6 and 10 pounds, though larger cuts are not uncommon.

Calculating Servings: The Basics

The general rule of thumb is that one pound of raw Boston butt will yield about ½ to ⅔ pound of cooked meat after accounting for bone and fat loss. This means a 10-pound Boston butt will give you approximately 5 to 6.5 pounds of edible meat.

Now, let’s talk servings. A standard serving size for pulled pork is about 4 to 6 ounces per person. Using this guideline:

A 6-pound Boston butt will feed about 12 to 15 people.
An 8-pound Boston butt will serve 16 to 20 people.
A 10-pound Boston butt can comfortably feed 20 to 25 people.

Of course, these numbers can vary depending on the appetites of your guests and what else is on the menu. If you’re serving hearty sides like mac and cheese, coleslaw, and cornbread, you might be able to stretch the meat further.

Factors That Affect Serving Size

Bone-In vs. Boneless: A bone-in Boston butt will yield less meat than a boneless one. The bone can account for 10-20% of the total weight, so keep that in mind when planning.
Cooking Method: Slow-cooking methods like smoking or braising will cause the meat to shrink as fat renders out. This can reduce the overall yield.
Appetites of Your Guests: Are you feeding a group of hungry teenagers or a crowd of light eaters? Adjust your estimates accordingly.
Leftovers: If you want leftovers for sandwiches or future meals, consider cooking a larger cut.

Why Do We Measure Food in “Butts”?

The term “Boston butt” has a quirky history. In pre-revolutionary New England, butchers would pack less desirable cuts of pork into barrels called “butts” for storage and transport. The shoulder cut, being one of these, became known as the “Boston butt.” Over time, the name stuck, even though the barrels are long gone. It’s a reminder that food terminology often has roots in practicality and tradition, even if it doesn’t make much sense today.

Creative Ways to Serve Boston Butt

Pulled Pork Sandwiches: The classic choice. Pile the meat high on a bun and top with coleslaw or pickles.
Tacos or Nachos: Shred the pork and use it as a filling for tacos or a topping for nachos.
Pulled Pork Pizza: Add a Southern twist to your pizza night.
Pork-Stuffed Baked Potatoes: Load up a baked potato with pulled pork, cheese, and sour cream.
Pork Fried Rice: Use leftover pulled pork for a quick and flavorful fried rice dish.

Final Thoughts

A Boston butt is a reliable and delicious way to feed a crowd, whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or a holiday feast. By understanding the yield and adjusting for your guests’ appetites, you can ensure everyone leaves the table satisfied. And while the term “butt” might raise a few eyebrows, it’s a testament to the rich history and traditions of American cuisine.

Q: Can I cook a Boston butt in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! A slow cooker is a great way to achieve tender, flavorful pulled pork with minimal effort.

Q: How long does it take to smoke a Boston butt?
A: Smoking a Boston butt typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours per pound at 225°F (107°C). Plan for a total cooking time of 10 to 14 hours for a large cut.

Q: What’s the best way to season a Boston butt?
A: A simple rub of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and brown sugar works wonders. Let the meat sit with the rub for at least an hour before cooking.