DIY BBQ Rubs: 6 Essential Spice Blends for Any Meat

A great rub can transform ordinary meat into extraordinary BBQ. Make these blends at home for a fraction of the cost of store-bought.

The Science of Rubs

Key Components

• Salt: Draws out moisture, enhances flavor
• Sugar: Promotes caramelization and bark
• Spices: Add complexity and heat
• Herbs: Provide aromatic notes

Application Tips

• Apply 1-2 hours before cooking (or overnight)
• Use about 1 tbsp per pound of meat
• Press firmly to help it adhere

1. Classic Texas BBQ Rub

Perfect for: Brisket, beef ribs

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup coarse black pepper
• 1/4 cup kosher salt
• 2 tbsp garlic powder
• 2 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper

Notes: Texas-style keeps it simple—salt and pepper forward.

2. Memphis-Style Sweet Rub

Perfect for: Ribs, pork shoulder

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup paprika
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp kosher salt
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tsp cayenne
• 1 tsp cumin

Notes: Balanced sweetness with a kick.

3. All-Purpose Poultry Rub

Perfect for: Chicken, turkey

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp paprika
• 1 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 2 tsp dried thyme
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp white pepper
• 1/2 tsp cayenne

Notes: Herbaceous with moderate heat.

4. Kansas City Sweet & Smoky

Perfect for: Ribs, burnt ends, chicken wings

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp paprika
• 2 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp mustard powder

Notes: Sweet and smoky, KC's signature.

5. Carolina Mustard Rub

Perfect for: Pork shoulder, pork chops

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp yellow mustard powder
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp celery salt
• 1/2 tsp cayenne

Notes: Tangy mustard base, Carolina tradition.

6. Coffee-Cocoa Rub

Perfect for: Beef steaks, brisket

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp finely ground coffee
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Notes: Complex, earthy, unique—perfect for adventurous grillers.

Rub Storage Tips

• Store in airtight containers
• Keep away from heat and light
• Label with date made
• Use within 3-6 months for best flavor
• Make small batches for freshness

Application Guide

Rub vs. Marinade

Mixing Your Own Blends

Start with these ratios:

• 4 parts salt
• 4 parts sugar
• 2 parts paprika
• 1 part each: garlic, onion, pepper
• 1/2 part heat (cayenne, chili)

Adjust to your taste and the meat you're cooking.

Get AI-Powered Recipe Ideas

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What's your secret rub ingredient? Share your custom blends in the comments!