BBQ Spice Rub Recipe

Sharing is caring!

This Easy BBQ Spice Rub is made with everyday spices like brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and plenty of paprika.

I use it weekly at my house—on chicken, pork, even ribs in the slow cooker. It adds just the right balance of smoky, sweet, and savory flavor. Plus, it’s way cheaper to make at home than buying those tiny jars at the store. Once you try it, you’ll want to keep a jar in your pantry all year long.

Save This Recipe

Want this recipe delivered to your inbox? Just fill out your email below and we will deliver it right to your inbox along with our delicious recipes and updates.

Email *

Page Title Email

Save Recipe

I love giving this BBQ rub as a little homemade gift—especially for Father’s Day. I just scoop it into a 2 oz canning jar, tie on a piece of twine or ribbon, and add a quick handwritten tag. It’s simple, but always appreciated.

Sometimes I’ll pair it with a slab of ribs or a pack of wings to make it feel like a full-on BBQ starter kit. It’s one of those gifts that’s easy to pull together, but feels thoughtful—especially when it’s something you’ve actually made (and used yourself) again and again.

Ingredients

This blend is all about balance—sweet, smoky, and just a little heat. Brown sugar helps create that crave-worthy caramelized crust, while smoked paprika adds depth and a subtle kick. You’ll also find pantry staples like garlic and onion powder, black pepper, and a touch of cayenne for warmth. A little celery salt and dry mustard round it all out for that classic BBQ flavor.

Pro Tip: For the boldest, best flavor, make sure your spices are fresh. The easiest way to check? Give them a good sniff. If the smell is strong and vibrant, they’re good to go. If it’s faint or dusty, it’s time to restock.

My favorite place to purchase spices in the Kansas City area is Penzeys in Downtown Overland Park, KS. They are based in Wisconsin, but they have retail stores throughout the country. Plus, they offer shipping.

Ways to Use BBQ Seasoning

Whether you’re baking, smoking, or firing up the grill, this BBQ spice rub brings the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory flavor to just about any meat. It’s a staple in my kitchen, and once you try it, you’ll see why.

One of my favorite ways to use it is in these Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs. The ribs come out fall-off-the-bone tender with hardly any effort—just season and let the slow cooker work its magic.

It’s also an excellent match-up for:

• Baked BBQ Chicken Breasts – Juicy, flavorful, and quick enough for a weeknight dinner.
• Instant Pot Pulled Pork – Pressure-cooked pork butt turns into tender, shreddable meat perfect for sandwiches, pizza, or loaded baked potatoes.
• BBQ Pork Tenderloin – A lean cut that soaks up all the flavor from the rub and your favorite BBQ sauce.
• Air Fryer Pork Chops, this seasoning gives them just the right kick.
• Honey bourbon wings—toss them in the rub, then finish with a sticky glaze for the perfect game day snack.

Sharing is caring!