10 Must-Try BBQ Rub Recipes

Looking to take your BBQ game to the next level? Look no further! In this article, you will find a collection of 10 mouthwatering BBQ rub recipes that are a must-try for any grill master. From smoky and sweet to spicy and bold, these rubs will infuse your meats with incredible flavors that will have your friends and family begging for more. So grab your apron, fire up the grill, and get ready to elevate your BBQ skills with these tantalizing rubs. Get ready to bring the heat!

10 Must-Try BBQ Rub Recipes

Basic BBQ Rub

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons paprika
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix together all the ingredients until well combined.
  2. Rub the mixture generously onto your meat of choice, ensuring that all sides are coated.
  3. Let the meat sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
  4. Grill or smoke the meat according to your preferred method until it is cooked to perfection.

Tips

  • This basic BBQ rub works well on a variety of meats, including chicken, pork, and beef.
  • Feel free to adjust the quantities of the spices according to your taste preference.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the rub.

Sweet and Spicy BBQ Rub

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons paprika
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)

Instructions

  1. Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well until evenly blended.
  2. Apply the rub generously to your meat, making sure to cover all sides.
  3. Allow the meat to marinate in the rub for at least 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator.
  4. Grill or smoke the meat to your desired level of doneness, basting with your favorite BBQ sauce if desired.

Tips

  • The combination of brown sugar and spices creates a perfect balance of sweetness and heat.
  • Adjust the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper to suit your spice tolerance.
  • For a caramelized finish, brush the meat with a bit of honey during the last few minutes of cooking.

Smoky Chipotle BBQ Rub

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons paprika
  • 1 tablespoon chipotle powder
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well to ensure even distribution of the spices.
  2. Generously rub the mixture onto your meat, making sure to cover all surfaces.
  3. Allow the meat to marinate in the rub for at least 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator.
  4. Grill or smoke the meat over indirect heat, allowing the smoky flavors to infuse into the meat.
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Tips

  • The chipotle powder adds a smoky and slightly spicy flavor to your BBQ.
  • If you prefer a milder rub, reduce the amount of chipotle powder or substitute it with regular chili powder.
  • This rub pairs exceptionally well with beef, particularly steak, ribs, or brisket.

Tangy Mustard BBQ Rub

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup yellow mustard
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, whisk together the yellow mustard and brown sugar until smooth.
  2. Add the remaining spices and mix well until evenly combined.
  3. Apply the rub generously to your meat, ensuring that all sides are coated.
  4. Allow the meat to marinate in the rub for at least 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator.
  5. Grill or smoke the meat until it reaches your desired level of doneness.

Tips

  • The tangy mustard combined with the spices creates a unique flavor profile that pairs well with pork or poultry.
  • For additional heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
  • This rub is particularly delicious when used on grilled chicken or pulled pork sandwiches.

10 Must-Try BBQ Rub Recipes

Kansas City Style BBQ Rub

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons paprika
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine all the ingredients and mix well until thoroughly blended.
  2. Apply the rub generously to your meat, making sure to cover all sides.
  3. Allow the meat to marinate in the rub for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
  4. Grill or smoke the meat over indirect heat, basting with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.

Tips

  • This flavorful rub is a staple of Kansas City-style BBQ, known for its rich and savory flavors.
  • The combination of spices, including the hint of heat from the cayenne pepper, creates a well-balanced profile.
  • Use this rub on ribs or pulled pork for an authentic taste of Kansas City BBQ.

Memphis Dry Rub

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons paprika
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 2 teaspoons black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine all the ingredients and mix well until thoroughly blended.
  2. Generously pat the rub onto your meat, ensuring that all sides are covered.
  3. Allow the meat to rest in the rub for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
  4. Grill or smoke the meat at a low temperature, allowing the flavors to develop slowly.
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Tips

  • This dry rub is reminiscent of the famous Memphis-style BBQ, known for its dry-rubbed ribs.
  • The combination of paprika, brown sugar, and spices creates a smoky and flavorful crust on the meat.
  • For an even more authentic experience, serve the meat with a side of tangy coleslaw.

Caribbean Jerk BBQ Rub

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons dried thyme
  • 2 teaspoons ground allspice
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine all the ingredients and mix well until thoroughly blended.
  2. Apply the rub generously to your meat, making sure to cover all surfaces.
  3. Allow the meat to marinate in the rub for at least 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator.
  4. Grill or smoke the meat over high heat, as this style of BBQ is traditionally cooked quickly.

Tips

  • This Caribbean-inspired rub brings bold flavors and a touch of heat to your BBQ.
  • Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.
  • Pair the jerk-rubbed meat with a cool and refreshing pineapple salsa for a truly tropical experience.

Texas Style BBQ Rub

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup paprika
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine all the ingredients and mix well until thoroughly blended.
  2. Generously rub the mixture onto your meat, ensuring that all sides are coated.
  3. Allow the meat to marinate in the rub for at least 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator.
  4. Grill or smoke the meat at a low and slow temperature, as this style of BBQ is all about patience and flavor.

Tips

  • The Texas-style BBQ rub is renowned for its bold flavor and spicy kick.
  • Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference.
  • For an authentic Texas-style experience, serve the meat with a side of tangy coleslaw and pickles.

Alabama White BBQ Rub

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, and spices until well combined.
  2. Apply the rub generously to your meat, ensuring that all surfaces are coated.
  3. Allow the meat to marinate in the rub for at least 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator.
  4. Grill or smoke the meat until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
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Tips

  • Alabama-style BBQ is famous for its unique white BBQ sauce, and this rub captures those flavors.
  • The tanginess of the mayonnaise combined with the spices creates a distinct taste profile.
  • This rub pairs well with chicken, especially when served with a side of creamy coleslaw.

Asian-Inspired BBQ Rub

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder

Instructions

  1. In a small pan over medium heat, toast the sesame seeds until golden brown and fragrant.
  2. In a bowl, combine the toasted sesame seeds, brown sugar, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, chili garlic sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, and Chinese five-spice powder. Mix well until thoroughly blended.
  3. Generously rub the mixture onto your meat, ensuring that all sides are coated.
  4. Allow the meat to marinate in the rub for at least 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator.
  5. Grill or smoke the meat until it reaches your desired level of doneness.

Tips

  • This unique BBQ rub brings together the flavors of Asia in a delicious fusion.
  • Adjust the amount of chili garlic sauce to suit your spice tolerance.
  • Serve the Asian-inspired BBQ with a side of steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Now that you have ten incredible BBQ rub recipes at your disposal, it’s time to fire up that grill and start experimenting with flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and spicy, smoky and chipotle-infused, or tangy and mustard-laden, there’s a rub on this list to satisfy your cravings. Remember, the key to a successful BBQ is allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat through marinating, and cooking it to perfection. So gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and get ready to impress your family and friends with your mouthwatering BBQ creations. Happy grilling!