Barbecue rubs add incredible flavor to meat when grilling or smoking. With the right combination of spices, herbs, sugar, and salt, a good bbq rub enhances any brisket, ribs, pork shoulder or chicken. Learning how to make your own homemade bbq rub can take your barbecue to the next level.
A quality DIY barbecue rub is easy to make with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry and spice cabinet. We’ll explain how to mix common spices like paprika, chili powder, brown sugar, salt and pepper into a balanced blend. We’ll also share tips on how long to let the rub sit on meat before cooking. With this guide, you’ll be able to whip up your own signature bbq rub recipes in no time.
Why Make Your Own BBQ Rub?
Cooking with a homemade bbq rub has many advantages over store-bought rubs:
- You can customize the flavor exactly how you like it. Tailor the spice level, smokiness, sweetness and saltiness to suit your taste.
- It’s healthier. When you make the rub yourself, you control what goes in it. No artificial ingredients or preservatives.
- It’s more economical. A homemade bbq rub costs just a fraction per use compared to commercial rubs.
- Higher quality ingredients. Use better quality spices and herbs than what goes into some mass-produced rubs.
- You can make large batches. Mix up a big jar of homemade bbq rub to have on hand whenever you need it.
BBQ Rub Ingredients
Making your own bbq rub is easy because you likely have most or all of the ingredients already stocked in your kitchen. Here are the most common items found in homemade barbecue rub recipes:
Spices and Herbs
- Paprika – Provides a mild smoky flavor and reddish color. Use smoked paprika for even more smokiness.
- Brown sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the spice flavors. Dark brown sugar has more molasses flavor.
- Chili powder – Brings a kick of heat and toasty chili flavor. Ancho or chipotle chili powder tastes especially good.
- Onion powder and garlic powder – Powder forms allow these flavors to adhere well to meat.
- Ground cumin – Warm, earthy flavor popular in Southwestern and Tex-Mex cuisine.
- Mustard powder – Tangy flavor that enhances other spices.
- Cayenne pepper – For spicier rubs, add a dash of cayenne. A little goes a long way.
- Black pepper – Essential seasoning that provides background heat. Freshly ground is best.
- Salt – Enhances overall flavor. Kosher or sea salt recommended over table salt.
- Dried oregano and thyme – earthy herbs that pair well with smoked meat.
- Ground ginger or allspice – Warm, subtly sweet spices to add complexity.
Sweeteners
A small amount of sugar balances out the spice flavors and promotes caramelization on the outside of the meat. In addition to brown sugar, you can use:
- White sugar
- Honey
- Maple syrup or molasses
- Agave nectar
Oil or Butter
Adding a small amount of oil or melted butter helps the rub adhere. Use vegetable, olive or coconut oil, or butter.
How to Make Basic Homemade BBQ Rub
This straightforward bbq rub recipe contains ingredients you likely have on hand. Customize it to your taste by adjusting any of the amounts. Make a batch to keep in an airtight jar.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1⁄2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and stir to blend thoroughly. Break up any clumps.
- Transfer rub to an airtight container like a mason jar. Label with the contents and date.
- Store in a cool, dark place for up to 3 months.
To Use:
- Apply liberally onto meat just before grilling or smoking.
- For best results, let the meat rest for at least 30 minutes after applying rub to allow flavors to penetrate. Or you can rub it on the night before.
- Use about 2-3 tablespoons per pound of meat. Apply an even coating on all sides.
- Pat it onto meat rather than rubbing, which can grind herbs into a paste.
Tips for Making Your Own Signature BBQ Rub
Once you get the basic homemade bbq rub recipe down, have fun developing your own custom blends. Here are some tips:
Pick a Style
Think about the cuisine styles you want to emulate. Tex-Mex bbq rubs are bold with chili powder, cumin, garlic and pepper. Memphis rubs focus on paprika, brown sugar, and herbs. Kansas City rubs are peppery.
Adjust the Heat
The amount of cayenne or chili powder controls the spiciness. For mild rubs, use just 1⁄4 tsp cayenne. For fiery heat, add up to 1 tablespoon.
Balance Sweet and Savory
Offset spicy flavors with 1-3 tablespoons of brown sugar or honey. Too much sweetness will overpower the spice blend though.
Consider Meat Type
Tailor rubs to pair well with specific meats. For beef use robust spices like black pepper. For pork and chicken use sweeter spices like cinnamon, allspice or ginger.
Layer the Flavors
In addition to the base flavors, add 1-2 extra spices like cinnamon, allspice, ginger or curry powder in small amounts. This provides complexity.
Get Creative with Ingredients
Reach into your pantry for inspiration. Ingredients like espresso powder, cocoa powder, citrus zest and crushed pepper flakes are all fair game.
Make it Your Own
Once you understand what each ingredient brings to a bbq rub, you can tweak recipes and create your own secret blend. Take notes so you can duplicate ones you love.
8 Bold and Flavorful Homemade BBQ Rub Recipes
These homemade dry rub recipes provide balanced spice blends to try on all kinds of grilled, smoked or oven-roasted meats.
All-Purpose BBQ Rub
This versatile barbecue rub pairs well with nearly any meat – especially brisket and ribs.
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons paprika
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1⁄2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients and mix thoroughly. Store in an airtight container. Makes about 3⁄4 cup, enough for 4-5 pounds of meat.
Memphis-Style Dry Rub
For authentic Memphis barbecue flavor, this sweet and spicy rub can’t be beat. Great on pork ribs and shoulder.
Ingredients:
- 1⁄4 cup brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons dry mustard
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1⁄2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1⁄2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1⁄4 teaspoon ground allspice
Instructions:
Whisk together all ingredients until fully blended. Store in an airtight container. Use on pork.
Coffee BBQ Rub
The richness of ground coffee pairs wonderfully with beef like brisket or tri-tip.
Ingredients:
- 1⁄4 cup finely ground coffee
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1⁄2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions:
Mix ingredients thoroughly and store in an airtight container. Makes about 3⁄4 cup.
Kansas City Rub
With lots of spice and no sugar, this rub is excellent on beef brisket.
Ingredients:
- 1⁄4 cup paprika
- 2 tablespoons black pepper
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons dry mustard
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions:
Whisk together all ingredients. Store in an airtight container. Try on beef brisket.
Jerk Chicken Dry Rub
For Jamaican jerk flavor, use this spicy rub on chicken before grilling.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons ground allspice
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1⁄2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1⁄2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
Mix ingredients thoroughly and apply liberally on chicken pieces before grilling.
Lemon Pepper Rub
Tart lemon and cracked pepper give this rub a bright flavor. It’s fantastic on salmon.
Ingredients:
- Zest from 2 lemons
- 2 tablespoons coarsely ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions:
In a small bowl, mix together all ingredients until fully blended. Store in an airtight container. Use to season salmon before grilling or broiling.
Margarita Chicken Rub
The lime and salt in this rub makes chicken irresistible. The touch of sugar caramelizes beautifully.
Ingredients:
- Zest from 2 limes
- Juice from 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1⁄2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1⁄2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1⁄4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
Whisk ingredients together in a small bowl until fully incorporated. Pat rub all over chicken pieces before grilling or baking.
Moroccan Spice Rub
Warm Moroccan flavors like cumin, coriander and cinnamon make this rub extraordinary on lamb.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1⁄2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1⁄2 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions:
Mix all ingredients thoroughly. Store in an airtight container. Use to season lamb before grilling or roasting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does homemade bbq rub last?
Properly stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, most homemade barbecue rubs will stay fresh for 3-6 months. If rub ever develops an off smell or change in texture, it’s best to discard and make a new batch.
Does bbq rub need to be refrigerated?
No, since barbecue rub contains no moisture, it can safely be stored at room temperature if kept in an airtight container away from heat, sunlight and humidity.
Can you use bbq rub on veggies?
Absolutely! Bbq rub adds delicious flavor to veggies like corn on the cob, potatoes, zucchini, mushrooms and more. Apply the rub lightly though, as some herbs can burn on hot grill grates.
What’s the best bbq rub for ribs?
For pork ribs, a Kansas City-style rib rub is excellent. It has the perfect blend of sweetness from brown sugar, smokiness from paprika, and big pepper flavor. Memphis-style rubs also pair wonderfully with pork ribs.
What is a good homemade brisket rub?
When seasoning brisket, opt for a rub heavier on pepper and spice versus sweetness. Good brisket rubs contain lots of black pepper, chili powder, garlic, onion and sometimes coffee grounds.
How early should you put rub on meat?
For maximum flavor penetration, coat meat with dry rub at least 4 hours ahead and up to 24 hours before cooking. If pressed for time, you can apply rub just before cooking and still get great flavor.
How much bbq rub do you use per pound of meat?
As a general rule of thumb, figure 2-3 tablespoons of dry rub per pound of meat. Apply rub generously to coat all surfaces evenly. Pork shoulder, beef brisket and racks of ribs need more. Chicken pieces need less.
Conclusion
Making your own homemade bbq rub is easy, fun and adds incredible flavor to smoked or grilled meats. With the right blend of spices and a bit of practice, you can come up with signature spice mixes suited for your favorite barbecue recipes. Keep a batch on hand for whenever the urge to grill strikes.