All-Purpose BBQ Dry Rub For Amazing Barbecue Recipes

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When it comes to barbecue, the right dry rub can turn an ordinary piece of meat into something truly spectacular. Imagine biting into tender ribs or juicy chicken, each mouthful packed with a flavor profile that dances on your taste buds. A good homemade BBQ rub recipe is like a secret weapon in your culinary arsenal, ready to elevate your grilling game.

Spilled BBQ Dry Rub on a white countertop.

Creating your all-purpose BBQ rub is as easy as pie, and the best part? You can customize it to suit your taste! Whether you prefer smoky, sweet, or a bit of heat, this dry BBQ rub recipe covers you. So grab your spices, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get ready to make some barbecue magic happen!

If you are looking for more seasoning recipes, I have a few more you might want to try. Add some flavor to classic fries with this easy French fries seasoning. Make your own blackening seasoning from scratch with this recipe for another BBQ favorite.

Still in the mood for more BBQ recipes? Why not try this tasty chicken thighs recipe with peach and cayenne pepper for a kick?

Table of Contents

Why This Recipe Works

Versatility: This all-purpose BBQ dry rub can be used on various meats, from chicken and ribs to pork and brisket, making it an essential addition to any cook’s repertoire.
Customizable Flavour: You can adjust the ratios of the spice rub to create the perfect blend tailored to your personal taste preferences, whether you like it spicier, sweeter, or smokier.
Simple to Prepare: With just a few common ingredients, this dry barbecue rub can be mixed together in minutes, allowing you to focus more on grilling and less on complicated preparations.
Enhanced Taste: The perfect combination of spices will enhance the natural flavors of the meat and create a delicious caramelized crust that will keep everyone coming back for more.

What’s in This BBQ Rub Recipe?

Ingredients for BBQ Dry Rub sitting on a white countertop.

Paprika: Paprika is a ground spice made from air-dried bell pepper or chili pepper fruits. It adds a beautiful deep red color to the rub and delivers a mild sweetness with a hint of smokiness, making it a perfect base for any barbecue seasoning.
Coarse Sea Salt: Coarse sea salt is harvested from evaporated seawater and consists of larger crystals than table salt. Its texture enhances the rub’s ability to adhere to the meat, while also enhancing the overall flavor profile by drawing out the moisture and intensifying the taste of the meat.
Coarse Ground Black Pepper: This key spice is derived from the dried berries of the pepper plant and offers a sharp, pungent flavor. Coarse ground black pepper adds depth and a little heat to the rub, balancing the sweeter elements and creating a complex flavor that complements all barbecued meats.
Garlic Powder: Made from dehydrated garlic cloves, garlic powder delivers a concentrated burst of garlic flavor. Its easy incorporation into the rub means you can enjoy garlic’s distinct aroma and taste without needing fresh preparation, making it a staple in many barbecue recipes.
Onion Powder: Like garlic powder, onion powder is created by dehydrating onions and grinding them into a fine powder. This spice adds a sweet and slightly tangy flavor to the dry rub, enhancing the savory notes and creating a well-rounded seasoning blend.

See the recipe card below for a complete list of ingredients and measurements.

Substitutions and Additions

Brown Sugar: Consider adding brown sugar to your rub for a touch of sweetness. It enhances the great flavor and caramelizes beautifully on the grill, creating a delicious crust.
Chili Powder: If you prefer more heat, incorporate chili powder or cayenne pepper. These spices can elevate the spice level of your rub, giving your barbecue a nice kick.
Cumin: Ground cumin adds a warm and earthy undertone to barbecue dishes. It pairs well with the other spices and adds a unique depth of flavor.
Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary can be included for added freshness and complexity in taste. They work especially well with chicken wings and pork chops.
Smoked Paprika: To amplify the smoky flavor of your rub, substitute regular paprika with smoked paprika. It enhances the grilled taste, perfect for barbecue enthusiasts.

How to Make BBQ Seasoning Rub (step-by-step directions)

Mix the paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small mixing bowl. (Photo 1)
Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. (Photos 2 & 3)

An airtight container with BBQ Dry Rub sitting on a wooden board.

Recipe Tips

Adjust Spice Levels: Start with smaller amounts of hotter spices like cayenne or chili powder, and gradually increase to suit your heat preference.
Mix Thoroughly: Ensure that all spices are well-mixed to achieve even flavor distribution across your meat.
Let It Rest: For the best flavor, allow the dry rub to rest on the meat for at least 30 minutes before grilling or, ideally, overnight in the refrigerator.
Use Fresh Spices: Use freshly opened spices for optimal flavor, as older spices may lose their potency over time.
Grill at the Right Temperature: Preheat your grill to the desired temperature before placing the meat to ensure even cooking and proper caramelization of the rub.

Storing Tips

Proper storage is essential to keeping your BBQ seasoning rub fresh and flavorful. Transfer the rub into an airtight container or a glass jar with a tight-sealing lid. Store it in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources, such as your stove or oven. This helps prevent the spices from degrading and losing their intensity.

Use the dry rub within six months for best results, as the flavor is most vibrant during this period. If you’re making a large batch, consider dividing it into smaller portions; this way, you only open what you need while keeping the rest sealed and fresh.

Serving Suggestions

Grilling: Apply a generous amount of this all-purpose rub to your desired meats, such as chicken, pulled pork, pork tenderloin, or beef brisket, before grilling. This will create a flavourful crust and enhance the meat’s natural juices.
Roasting: Use the rub to season vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers, before roasting the vegetables in the oven. The spices will add a zesty kick and depth of flavor to your sides.
Slow Cooking: Rub seasoning onto meats for recipes using slow cookers before cooking. It will infuse flavor as the meat cooks low and slow, making it tender and delicious.
Marinating: Combine the rub with olive oil and vinegar to create a marinade for meats. Allow it to sit for a few hours to soak up the robust and complex flavors before cooking.
Popcorn or Snack Mix: Get creative by sprinkling a pinch of this good dry rub on popcorn or homemade snack mixes for a unique and spicy twist that will impress your guests.

A white bowl of BBQ Dry Rub with a wooden spoon scooping it.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use this rub on seafood?

Yes, this best BBQ rub can also be used on seafood. It works particularly well with fish like salmon or shrimp, adding a delightful contrast to their natural flavors.

Is it possible to make this rub without salt?

Absolutely! You can omit the coarse sea salt and substitute it with a salt-free seasoning blend
or additional herbs and spices. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile might change slightly.

How do I adjust the rub for different meats?

You can easily tweak the amount of spices depending on the type of meat you are using. For milder meats like chicken, feel free to use a heavier hand with the rub, while for stronger flavored meats like beef, start with a lighter application.

What should I serve with BBQ meat seasoned with this rub?

This rub pairs wonderfully with classic BBQ sides such as coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, and grilled vegetables, providing a balanced and delicious meal.

Need More Homemade Spice Blend Recipes? Try These:

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An airtight container with BBQ Dry Rub spilled on a white countertop.

5 from 2 votes