Hey y’all! If you’re on the hunt for a pork chop seasoning that turns any ordinary chop into a mouthwatering, flavor-packed feast, you’ve landed in the right spot. This easy homemade blend delivers savory, smoky, and slightly spicy notes that make your pork chops perfect for weeknight dinners, family cookouts, or special occasions. Ready to dazzle your taste buds? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Pork Chop Seasoning
- Packs every bite with bold, savory flavor without overwhelming the pork.
- Super quick and easy to whip up with pantry staples.
- Versatile—great for grilling, baking, or pan-searing pork chops.
- No artificial additives or preservatives—just pure, fresh spices.
- Customizable for any dietary preference or spice level.
Ingredients for Pork Chop Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
How to Make Pork Chop Seasoning
Step 1: Combine the Spices
In a small bowl, whisk together the salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, thyme, oregano, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper until thoroughly mixed.
Step 2: Season the Pork Chops
Pat your pork chops dry with paper towels. Sprinkle approximately 1 tablespoon of the seasoning blend over each pork chop, rubbing it in evenly on both sides for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Rest and Cook
Let the seasoned pork chops rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Then, cook using your preferred method—grill, bake at 400°F (204°C) for 18-22 minutes, or pan-sear over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side—until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Notes & Helpful Tips
- For even seasoning, use clean hands or a dry basting brush to rub the spice blend into the meat.
- This seasoning also works beautifully on chicken or roasted veggies—experiment and enjoy!
- For more about safe pork cooking temperatures, check out FoodSafety.gov.
Pork Chop Seasoning Variations
- Smoky BBQ: Add 1 teaspoon chili powder and a pinch of cumin for classic barbecue flair.
- Herb & Citrus: Mix in 1 teaspoon dried rosemary and zest of half a lemon for a fresh, zesty twist.
- Sweet & Spicy: Increase brown sugar to 1 teaspoon and add a dash of chipotle powder for heat and sweetness.
Required Equipment
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Paper towels
- Baking sheet, grill, or skillet (for cooking)
Pork Chop Seasoning Storage & Shelf Life
Store leftover Pork Chop Seasoning in an airtight container or spice jar in a cool, dry place. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to 6 months. Keep away from moisture for best results.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings for Pork Chop Seasoning
- Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, grilled corn, or roasted asparagus.
- Pair with a crisp apple slaw or tangy chimichurri for a fresh contrast.
- For a barbecue spread, add classic baked beans and cornbread.
Pro Tips for Perfect Pork Chop Seasoning
- Allow the seasoning to marinate on the pork for at least 15 minutes for deeper flavor penetration.
- Use thick-cut, bone-in pork chops for juicier results; thinner chops can dry out quickly (Serious Eats pork chop guide).
- Don’t skip resting the meat after cooking—let chops rest 5 minutes before slicing to keep them juicy.
Pork Chop Seasoning FAQ
- Can I use this seasoning blend on other meats?
- Absolutely! It’s delicious on chicken, turkey, or even roasted vegetables.
- How much seasoning should I use per pork chop?
- Plan on about 1 tablespoon per standard (8 oz) pork chop for bold flavor.
- Is this Pork Chop Seasoning gluten-free?
- Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but double-check your spice labels for cross-contamination.
For more info about individual spices and their health benefits, check out Healthline’s guide to spices.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 5 minutes (plus cooking)
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Instructions
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1In a small bowl, add the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, ground mustard, and cayenne pepper.
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2Whisk all the ingredients together until thoroughly combined and no clumps remain.
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3Pat pork chops dry and sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly over both sides of each pork chop.
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4Gently rub the seasoning into the meat for best flavor. Cook pork chops as desired.
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5Store any leftover seasoning in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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