Pulled Pork Rub

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This Pulled Pork Rub is made with simple spices that add the perfect mix of sweet, savory, and bold flavor to any pork butt. It works great in the slow cooker, smoker, or oven, making it an easy recipe to use all year long. Mix up a batch, keep it on hand, and you’ll always have a go-to seasoning ready for your next pork recipe.

 

Table of Contents

Ingredient Notes

I use eight ingredients for this Pulled Pork Rub, and they are all used for different reasons. Some help bring out the natural flavors (which are considered to be seasonings), and the others add flavor (flavorings). All of them are most likely already in your spice rack, ready to go. Here’s the breakdown:

Seasonings:

• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps balance the savory spices.
• Sea Salt – Brings out the natural flavor of the pork.
• Black Pepper – Adds a little heat and rounds out the seasoning.

Flavorings:

• Onion Powder – Creates a savory base that pairs well with pork.
• Garlic Powder – Brings classic garlic flavor to the seasoning blend.
• Dried Mustard – Gives the rub a subtle tang and a little bite.
• Smoked Paprika – Adds smoky flavor and gives the rub its rich color.
• Cayenne Pepper (optional) – Adds extra heat to the rub if you like it spicy.

How to Make Pulled Pork Rub

This homemade pulled pork rub comes together in just a few minutes and is easy to keep on hand for your next cookout. Here’s how to make it:

Step 1: Measure the spices

Use measuring spoons to accurately measure each spice into a small mixing bowl. Accurate measurements help keep the flavors balanced every time.

Step 2: Whisk everything together

Use a wire whisk to thoroughly combine the spices and break up any small clumps. This helps distribute every ingredient evenly throughout the rub.

Step 3: Transfer to a container

Pour the spice blend into an airtight spice jar or container. Seal it tightly to keep it fresh and flavorful.

Step 4: Use or store

Rub the seasoning generously over your pork before cooking, gently pressing it into the meat so it sticks well. If you’re not using it right away, store it in a cool, dry place until you’re ready.

Using the Pork Rub

Before you season the pork, let it sit on the counter for 30 to 45 minutes to take the chill off. Then sprinkle the pulled pork rub all over the pork butt, covering the top, bottom, and every side. Once it’s fully coated, cook it however you like until it’s tender enough to shred.

What Cut of Meat Should I Use for Pulled Pork?

When it comes to pulled pork, pork shoulder, also called pork butt, is the cut you want. It has plenty of fat and marbling, which slowly melts as it cooks, giving you juicy, flavorful pork that practically falls apart when it’s time to shred.

I usually grab a 7-pound pork shoulder and trim off any large pieces of excess fat before seasoning it. If you spot pork shoulder on sale, grab an extra and pop it in the freezer. It’s one of my favorite meats to keep on hand for an easy family dinner. If you’re shopping at Costco, don’t be surprised if the package comes with enough pork for two meals. Freeze the extra roast and save it for another day.

Smoking vs Crockpot

Both a Crockpot and a smoker work beautifully for cooking pulled pork. Here is my tried-and-true recipe for Smoked Pork Butt. It creates the most flavorful meat you will ever eat.

Not everyone has a smoker, and that’s okay. My Crockpot Pulled Pork recipe uses the same cut of meat and cooks it low and slow until it’s fall-apart tender. No matter which method you choose, be sure to coat the pork with this pulled pork rub before cooking to build flavor from the very beginning.

Tools You’ll Need

You don’t need any fancy equipment to make this homemade pulled pork rub, just a few basic kitchen tools.

• Mixing bowl – A medium mixing bowl gives you plenty of room to combine all the spices without making a mess.
• Wire whisk – A small wire whisk quickly blends everything together, helping break up any clumps so the seasoning is evenly mixed.
• Measuring spoons – Accurate measuring spoons make it easy to get the right balance of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors every time.
• Smoker – Once your rub is ready, coat your pork generously before cooking it in a smoker for rich, smoky flavor and tender pulled pork. The same rub also works great for pork cooked in the oven or slow cooker.

Tips for Success

These simple tips will help you make a well-balanced pulled pork rub and get the best results every time.

• Mix thoroughly. Whisk the spices well so every ingredient is evenly distributed, and you don’t end up with pockets of salt or sugar.
• Break up clumps. Brown sugar and spices can clump together, so break them apart before storing or using the rub.
• Pat the pork dry. Removing excess moisture helps the seasoning stick better and creates a better crust while cooking.
• Season generously. Pork shoulder is a large cut of meat, so don’t be shy when coating every side with the rub.
• Let the rub sit. If you have time, let the seasoned pork rest for 30 minutes or refrigerate it for a few hours to give the flavors time to soak in.

What to Serve with Pulled Pork

Pulled pork works well with simple sides that balance the smoky, rich flavor.

• Homemade Rolls – Soft and great for sandwiches.
• Classic Coleslaw – Crunchy and creamy, a classic BBQ side.
• Mexican Street Corn – Sweet and savory with a smoky finish.
• Classic Baked Beans. – Thick, sweet, and hearty.
• Homemade Cornbread – Soft, slightly sweet, and perfect alongside smoky po
• Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy, cheesy, and always a crowd favorite at any BBQ.

How to Store Pulled Pork Rub

Store your pulled pork rub in an airtight container or spice jar so it stays fresh and doesn’t absorb moisture from the air. A glass jar or sealed spice container works best to keep the flavors strong and prevent clumping.

Keep it in a cool, dry place like a pantry or cabinet, away from heat, steam, or direct sunlight. Avoid storing it near the stove or dishwasher, as humidity can affect its texture and flavor over time.

Label the container with the date so you can track freshness. When stored properly, the rub stays flavorful for several months.

FAQs

Variations

You can easily adjust this pulled pork rub to match your taste or what you have on hand.

• Spicier rub – Add extra cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili powder for more heat.
• Sweeter rub – Increase the brown sugar for a richer, caramelized crust.
• Smokier flavor – Add more smoked paprika for deeper BBQ flavor without extra heat.
• Low-sugar version – Cut back on the sugar and lean more on savory spices like garlic and onion powder.
• Herb-forward twist – Add dried thyme or oregano for a slightly earthy flavor profile.

More Favorites from Lauren’s Latest

So that is my recipe for a simple Pulled Pork Rub! I hope you give it a try this summer! It makes a fantastic flavored piece of meat, especially if you have it going in your smoker. YUM! Have a great day, friends.

If you make this recipe, I would really appreciate it if you would give it a star rating and leave your review in the comments! If you have a picture of your finished dish, post it on Instagram using the hashtag #laurenslatest and tagging me @laurens_latest.