BBQ Spice Rub Recipes

BBQ Spice Rub Recipes

Elevate Your Grilling Game

A great BBQ rub can transform ordinary meat into a flavor-packed masterpiece. From brisket to ribs, chicken to pork, the right spice blend enhances natural flavors, creates a perfect bark, and adds depth to your BBQ dishes. Here are some of the best BBQ spice rub recipes you can make at home.

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Why Use a BBQ Spice Rub?

A dry rub is more than seasoning—it’s flavor science:

• Enhances flavor: Spices penetrate meat for a deeper taste.

• Creates bark: Sugar and spices caramelize for that signature BBQ crust.

• Locks in moisture: Salt helps retain juiciness during slow cooking.

• Customizable heat: Add chili or cayenne to suit your preferred spice level.

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1. Classic BBQ Rub

Perfect for all meats, this all-purpose rub balances sweet, smoky, and savory flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon paprika

• 1 tablespoon kosher salt

• 1 tablespoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl.

2. Pat meat dry and rub evenly on all sides.

3. Let sit for at least 1 hour or refrigerate overnight for maximum flavor.

Best for: Ribs, chicken, pork shoulder

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2. Sweet and Smoky Rub

Adds a subtle sweetness with a smoky undertone that pairs beautifully with grilled meats.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika

• 1 tablespoon kosher salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions:

1. Mix ingredients thoroughly.

2. Massage onto meat and allow to rest 1–2 hours before cooking.

Best for: Brisket, beef ribs, pork ribs

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3. Spicy Heat Rub

For those who love a little kick, this rub delivers smoky heat without overpowering the meat.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons chili powder

• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon kosher salt

• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients and store in an airtight container.

2. Apply generously on meat and let it marinate for at least 1 hour.

Best for: Chicken wings, ribs, pork tenderloin

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4. Herb & Garlic Rub

A fresh, aromatic rub that brings out natural flavors without heavy sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon dried rosemary

• 1 tablespoon dried thyme

• 1 tablespoon garlic powder

• 1 tablespoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions:

1. Crush herbs if needed and mix all ingredients.

2. Rub on meat before cooking.

Best for: Chicken, turkey, pork chops

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Tips for Using BBQ Spice Rubs

1. Low and slow cooking brings out the best flavor.

2. Pat meat dry to help the rub adhere.

3. Rest after rubbing for at least 1 hour or overnight in the fridge.

4. Spritz occasionally with apple juice or cider vinegar for moist, tender results.

5. Finish unwrapped near the end to create a perfect bark.

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OTHER RECIPES

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon granulated garlic
• 1 tablespoon granulated onion
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon white pepper

Directions

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well. 

Store in an airtight container. 

Pack on the dry rub onto your next rack of ribs.

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