This Homemade Pork Rub Recipe is easy to make with pantry spices and adds bold flavor to pork chops, ribs, tenderloin, and pulled pork. Perfect for grilling, smoking, or roasting!
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Why You’ll Love this Best Pork Rub Recipe!
This Homemade Pork Rub is one I keep stocked in my pantry because it works on just about any piece of meat and veggies.
Whether I’m seasoning pork chops for a quick dinner or prepping a big pork shoulder for the smoker, this rub delivers consistent, a delicious depth of smoky flavor without overpowering the meat.
It’s simple, reliable, and far better than anything you’ll grab off a store shelf. Making Homemade Seasoning Blends is something I really enjoy preparing because I can control the ingredients. If you love dry rub recipes also, you might like Chipotle Seasoning, Pork Chop Seasoning, Pulled Pork Rub and Homemade Burger Seasoning.
Ingredients
- Brown Sugar – If you are out, see these Best Brown Sugar Substitutes. You can use light brown sugar or dark brown sugar
- Chili Powder – See The Best Chili Powder Substitute if you are out
- Paprika – See Best Paprika Substitute
- Garlic Powder – You can also use minced garlic
- Dried Thyme Leaves – See How to Dry Thyme
- Onion Powder – See Best Onion Powder Substitutes
Scroll to the recipe card for the full recipe details.
How to Make Homemade Pork Rub
Step 1 – Mix together all the ingredients in a small bowl. Use a fork to prevent clumping.
Step 2 – Rub approximately 1 tablespoon of the rub generously over pork chops or a pork roast. Let them marinate in the rub for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
Step 3 – Then you can grill, bake or air fry your favorite pork recipes as preferred.
Homemade Pork Rub Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Mix together all the ingredients in a small bowl.
- Rub approximately 1 tablespoon of the rub generously over pork chops or a pork roast. Let them marinate in the rub for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
- Then you can grill, bake or air fry the pork as preferred.
Recipe Notes
Recipe Tips
- Leftover Pork Rub – Make sure to discard any of the rub that might have come into contact with any of the raw pork.
- Fresh Spices – Use fresh spices for maximum flavor.
- Stock your Pantry – Double or triple the recipe for meal prep. We use this homemade spice rub for everything.
- Storing – Label your jar with the date (lasts up to 6 months)
Variations Ideas
- Sweet Pork Rub – Add extra brown sugar for a sweeter rub.
- Spicy Pork Rub – Increase chili powder, red chili flakes or add in cayenne pepper. We recommend adding about ½ teaspoon for a kick of flavor to this pork seasoning.
- Garlic Lover’s Rub – Add extra garlic powder for even more garlic flavor.
Nutrition Facts
How to Use Pork Rub
This Pork Rub is a blend of delicious spices and perfect to use on these recipes for your next BBQ.
- Grilled Pork Kabobs
- Blackstone Thin Pork Chops
- Smoked Whole Chicken
- Grilled Pork Steak
- Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Pork Rub FAQ’s
Use about 1 tablespoon of pork rub per pound of meat, adjusting to taste. Larger cuts like pork shoulder can handle a heavier coating. This recipe makes enough to season 4 large pork chops or a large pork roast.
For best flavor, let pork rub sit on the meat for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.
Sugar isn’t required, but it helps balance savory spices and creates caramelization when grilling or roasting pork.
Yes, this homemade pork rub works well on chicken, beef, and even vegetables — it’s very versatile.
Homemade pork rub lasts up to 6 months when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
More Easy Homemade Rub Recipes
Homemade Seasoning Blends for Grilling
Chicken Rub Recipe
Homemade Seasoning Blends for Grilling
Steak Rub
Homemade Seasoning Blends for Grilling
Beef Rub Recipe
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