This pork dry rub is all the rage for everything from pork butts to pork ribs.

This pork rub mixture will keep for months, so make extra to use on all your favorite pork recipes throughout the grilling season!

spoonfull of Pork Rub

Homemade Pork Rub Recipe

  • This DIY dry rub for pork ribs, roasts, shoulder, and loins tenderizes and infuses the meat with mouthwatering flavor.
  • Pork is an affordable and easy meat to smoke, grill, bake, or fry, so it’s perfect for larger get-togethers. Just prep, season, and cook!
  • This pork rub has a combination of sweet and spicy flavors suitable for a variety of different cuisines.
  • Homemade pork, chicken and beef rubs do not contain additives that may be found in store-bought.
  • You can adjust the ingredients and create your own signature rub recipe based on taste or dietary preference!
jar of Pork Rub

Ingredients and Variations

Paprika: Paprika is made from dried and ground peppers. It adds a deep, earthy flavor to recipes and also comes in a smoked variety which is also delicious in this recipe.

Salt: Kosher salt is free of additives and iodide unlike regular table salt, although any salt will work. Experiment with flavored salt if you have it.

Brown sugar: Sugar balances out the spicy elements of the recipe and also helps caramelize the seasonings onto the meat as it cooks. Sugar-free alternatives like Swerve or monk fruit are great switches for regular brown sugar if desired.

Spices: Chile powder, onion flakes, garlic, and cayenne powder round out the blend – add more or less depending on your preference. Other savory seasonings to consider are dried oregano, dried thyme, cumin, or a few red pepper flakes.

taking a spoonfull of Pork Rub out of the jar

How to Make Pork Rub

This Texas-style BBQ pork rub is the perfect spicy-sweet blend to complement all your pork recipes!

  1. Mix the ingredients listed in the recipe below in a bowl and transfer to an airtight container.
  2. Shake the container to ensure the spices are well combined before using or storing.
Pork Rub in the jar and on a spoon

Ways to Use Pork Rub

  • Generously season pork shoulders, roasts, tenderloins, and racks of ribs up to two hours before cooking, unless otherwise directed by the recipe.
  • For roasts or pulled pork pierce the widest parts of the meat and massage extra seasoning into the flesh for maximum flavor infusion!
  • Don’t forget to use the rich and robust flavors of pork rub on scrambled eggs, roasted potatoes and even sprinkled on broccoli.

Seasoning Tip

The best way to season pork is to ensure it’s patted dry so the seasoning adheres.

Pork Rub on a spoon with Pork Rub on a table

Best Way to Store

Pork rub should last about 4 months and is best kept in a tightly sealed container, like a mason jar, in a cool dry place away from temperature and light extremes. Be sure to shake the mix before using it to break up any clumps. You can also purchase desiccant packets for homemade seasonings that absorb moisture and keep it extra fresh.

A Great Idea

Be sure to write the date on the mason jar lid or on a piece of masking tape.

More Rubs and Seasonings

Did you try this Pork Rub recipe? Leave a comment and rating below!

close up of Pork Rub in a spoon
5 from 91 votes↑ Click stars to rate now!
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Pork Rub Recipe

This multi-purpose pork rub, with it's delicious blend of spice and sweetness, will complement any smoked meat.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 32 Tablespoons
Author Candace

Ingredients  

Instructions 

  • In a medium bowl, combine paprika, kosher salt, brown sugar, black pepper, chili powder, onion flakes, garlic powder and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
  • Store in a mason jar with a lid, or any sealed airtight container.

Notes

  • Recipe makes 2 cups (32 Tablespoons)
  • Keep pork rub in a tightly sealed container and in a cool, dry place. It should stay fresh for about 4 months.
  • Shake the rub before using it to break up any clumps.
5 from 91 votes↑ Click stars to rate now!
Or to leave a comment, click here!

Nutrition Information

Calories: 27 | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 917mg | Potassium: 135mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 1870IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 23mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information does not include optional ingredients or garnish and is an estimate. It may change based on actual ingredients and cooking methods used.

Course Seasonings
Cuisine American

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homemade Pork Rub on a spoon with writing
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Pork Rub in a jar and on a spoon with a title
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About the author

I am a wife, mother of two, and professional accountant. I love fantastic food, and it is so often the center of our lives, from everyday dinner, to family gatherings, and special evenings at fabulous restaurants. I have always loved cooking and baking, with my mom and grandma, and now, with my daughter and son. I love trying new recipes while enjoying my favorites too. I’m so happy to share them with you.
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Comments

  1. 5 stars
    When baby back ribs go on sale I buy them, cut in half, coat them in this rub and freeze them using a sealer. When I’m ready for fall off the bone pork ribs I sous vide them in water bath ( still in the sealer bag) until done then open the bag and give them a quick char on the grill. OMG talk about delicious !

    1. Hi George, the dark brown sugar gives a little more depth to the flavor of the rub (since it has molasses in it). You could substitute light if you prefer or happen to have that on hand. Enjoy the rub!

    1. YAY! I’m so happy to hear that Deb! This is a favorite of ours too, we always have a jar around!