Updated
This pork dry rub is a simple mix of herbs and spices that creates the perfect flavor for any of your pork recipes. When I developed this recipe with my mom in 2015, we never knew how much we would use it over the years. This Pork Chop Seasoning can be used for pork chops, pork ribs, pork tenderloin, pork roast, pork shoulder, and more. It’s deliciously savory and unique, with hints of spice and sweetness to balance things out. I always keep some in my spice cabinet for quick cooking!

5-Star Review
“I’ve been using this recipe for over a year. My husband brags to other people how great my pork is and calls it my “famous” pork chop rub😂. It’s delicious!” -Gena
Easy Pork Chop Seasoning
All you need for this pork rub recipe is a handful of herbs and spices, most of which you’ll probably already have in your spice cabinet. I have come to love homemade spice mixes—they’re cost effective and honestly just taste so much better. This pork chop seasoning mix was created to bring out and complement the flavor of pork, so it’s a little bit sweet, but mostly savory.
I find the best way to apply rubs is to use your hands to firmly rub the seasoning directly onto the surface of the pork, coating all sides of each piece of meat. I like to let the meat sit for a while so the seasoning can sink in. In some cases, 15 minutes is enough, but I recommend letting it sit for 2 hours or even overnight (in the refrigerator) to really let it absorb.
Pork Chop Seasoning (Dry Rub for Pork, Chicken, Ribs, and more)
Ingredients
- ½ cup brown sugar firmly packed
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tbsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tsp ground mustard
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
- Whisk all ingredients together and keep in an airtight container.½ cup brown sugar, 2 tbsp chili powder, 2 tbsp smoked paprika, 2 tsp cumin, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 2 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried oregano, 2 tsp ground mustard, 2 tsp kosher salt, 1 tsp black pepper
- When ready to use, sprinkle the meat with a liberal amount of the seasoning and rub it in. Be sure to cover the entire surface. Allow the meat to rest at least 2 hours in the fridge (or overnight). Cook the meat as desired. Enjoy!
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
How to Make Pork Chop Seasoning Step by Step
Combine ingredients: Whisk ½ cup brown sugar, 2 tbsp chili powder, 2 tbsp smoked paprika, 2 tsp cumin, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 2 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried oregano, 2 tsp ground mustard, 2 tsp kosher salt, and 1 tsp black pepper together in a bowl.
Store and enjoy: Transfer to an airtight container and use as you wish.
How to Store
You can mix this pork seasoning blend as you need it, then store extra. Or you can make it ahead of time so it’s ready to grab and use any time you cook pork.
Store it in a resealable bag or airtight container (like a spice jar), and keep it in your pantry or spice cabinet. Use it within 3 months for best potency.
Serving Suggestions
This delicious mix of herbs and spices is perfect for any kind of pork. Of course, it’s great for chops, so I like to use it when making air fryer pork chops, baked and breaded pork chops, or in the summer, I use it on grilled pork chops.
It tastes amazing with chicken as well, so try it next time you grill chicken breasts.
I have used this on Pork tenderloin, Country style ribs, Baby back ribs, Pork chops and even Chicken. It’s awesome! I made a rather large batch and keep it in my pantry, so it’s always accessible. Thanks for making my life easier.
First time making this recipe. Love it 😀
First time I tried the season and it’s real good
So far so good,leaving overnight
This rub is excellent!!! I tied it on mahi mahi, which came out moist on the inside and blackened on the outside. Superb! Luckily, I made a large batch, so I have enough for at least four more pieces.
I edited a little for personal taste and used it on grilled pork chops. As soon as I hit the kitchen door the family could smell them. The taste did not disappoint. Will use this again. Thanks for sharing!!
Hi from South Africa and thank you, awesome !
So glad you enjoyed this recipe, Jason! Thanks so much for stopping by!
Hi. What form of cumin is suggested?
Ground cumin!
Is it good in cast iron frying?
Yes!
I’ve been using this recipe for over a year. My husband brags to other people how great my pork is and calls it my “famous” pork chop rub😂 It’s delicious!
Love to hear that, Gena!!