Smoked Whole Pork Loin with TexasBBQRub Grand Champion Rub

A juicy, whole pork loin that's been bathed in the deep, complex flavor of Grand Champion Rub makes any gathering feel like a championship-level feast. The low-and-slow smoke keeps the meat tender while the rub builds a caramelized bark that's pure Texas.

Grand Champion

This recipe uses

Grand Champion

Multiple Grand Champion wins in competition. Slightly less spicy with brown sugar sweetness. "The Edge" for serious BBQ.

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Ingredients

  • Whole pork loin (bone-in, 8-10 lb) 1
  • TexasBBQRub Grand Champion Rub 1/2 cup (packed)
  • Worcestershire sauce 1/4 cup
  • Apple cider vinegar 2 Tbsp
  • Olive oil (or melted butter) 2 Tbsp
  • Fresh garlic, minced 3 cloves
  • Coarse sea salt 1 tsp (optional, for extra crust)
  • Wood chunks (hickory or post-oak) 4-6 pieces (soaked 30 min)
  • Instant-read thermometer -

Instructions

  1. Trim & Prep the Loin: Remove any silver skin or excess rind. Pat dry with paper towels; a dry surface helps the rub stick.
  2. Make the Wet Rub: In a small bowl whisk Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and minced garlic.
  3. Apply the Wet Rub: Brush the mixture all over the pork loin, making sure to get into any crevices. This adds moisture and helps the dry rub adhere.
  4. Season with Grand Champion: Generously coat the entire surface with 1/2 cup TexasBBQRub Grand Champion Rub. Pat it in; sprinkle a light 1 tsp sea salt if you like extra crunch.
  5. Rest Before Smoking: Let the seasoned loin sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. This relaxes the muscle fibers and begins the flavor penetration.
  6. Preheat the Smoker: Set up a indirect-heat smoker to 200 degrees F - 225 degrees F. Add the soaked hickory (or post-oak) wood chunks for a sweet-spicy smoke profile.
  7. Smoke the Loin: Place the loin directly on the grill grate, fat side up. Close the lid and maintain a steady temperature. Smoke until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees F (USDA minimum) and holds for a 3-minute rest, or aim for 150 degrees F for a slightly firmer slice. This usually takes 4-5 hours depending on thickness.
  8. Create a Foil "Boat" (Optional): About halfway through the cook, form a shallow foil pan and nest the loin inside. This catches drippings, keeps the meat moist, and makes cleanup easier.
  9. Rest the Meat: Remove the loin, tent loosely with foil, and let it rest 15-20 minutes. Resting allows juices to redistribute and the final bark to set.
  10. Slice & Serve: Slice cross-wise into 1/4-inch cuts. The beautiful "bull's-eye" pattern (fat, meat, and rub) will be visible. Serve with your favorite BBQ sauce or a simple apple-cider vinaigrette.

Bill's Pitmaster Tips

  • Ice-Water Bath for the Smoker - Fill a shallow pan with ice and water and place it in the smoker during the first hour. The added humidity prevents the outer bark from drying out too quickly, giving a tender crumb inside.
  • Reverse-Sear Finish - After the loin hits 145 degrees F, crank the smoker (or move to a hot grill) up to 400 degrees F for the final 10-15 minutes. This gives a deep, caramelized bark without overcooking the interior.
  • Use a Probe Sleeve - Slip a temperature probe into a heat-resistant silicone sleeve and place it near the thickest part of the loin. Monitoring in real time prevents overshoot and lets you pull the meat at the exact target temperature.

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