Pan-Seared Pork Chops with Spiced Concrete Rub

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-06-26 · Updated 2026-06-26

Juicy pork chops enhanced by a bold, smoky rub inspired by masonry tool grit and spices, seared to a caramelized finish. This American-inspired pork recipe, ready in about 20 minutes, pairs bone-in pork chops, olive oil, paprika for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 4 chops, about 6 oz each bone-in pork chops
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked chili powder

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Instructions

1. Step 1: In a small bowl, combine 1 tbsp paprika, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground black pepper, 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp smoked chili powder to create the spiced rub.
2. Step 2: Pat dry 4 bone-in pork chops (about 6 oz each) with paper towels and evenly coat both sides with the spice rub.
3. Step 3: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
4. Step 4: Add the pork chops and sear for 4-5 minutes on the first side without moving, until a deep golden crust forms.
5. Step 5: Flip the pork chops and cook an additional 3-4 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F and the edges have a crispy, spiced crust.
6. Step 6: Remove from the skillet and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juiciness.