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This is my go-to recipe for a homemade BBQ rub. Why make your own? Because you can customize the flavors to suit your taste, ensure it’s made with the best ingredients, and avoid those pesky additives found in store-bought versions. Plus, it’s super easy and fun!

Homemade BBQ seasoning with a spoonful of homemade seasoning.

I love this BBQ rub because it’s versatile and can be used on your favorite dishes such as ribs, chicken legs, pork chops, vegetables, or even chicken wings.

It adds a fantastic depth of flavor that’ll make your dishes a hit at any meal.

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Ingredients

  • brown sugar
  • paprika
  • chili powder
  • garlic powder
  • onion powder
  • table salt
  • ground black pepper
  • cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick!)
Seasonings on a table that are needed to make a homemade bbq rub.
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How to Make this Homemade BBQ Rub Recipe

Measure out all of the ingredients.

Seasonings measured out on a plate to combine to make a homemade bbq rub.

Blend the seasonings together to create the homemade bbq rub.

Store the seasoning in an airtight container in a cool dark place.

Seasonings blended together to make a homemade BBQ rub.

Expert Tips

  • For a smokier flavor, try using smoked paprika.
  • If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can reduce or omit the brown sugar.
  • Store your rub in an airtight container to keep it fresh longer.

If you enjoyed this recipe, please consider leaving a STAR ⭐️ RATING in the COMMENTS 📝 SECTION below.

Homemade BBQ rub recipe to use on meats and vegetables, on a white plate.
5 from 1 vote
Servings: 12

Homemade BBQ Rub Recipe

By Jen
This is my go-to recipe for a homemade BBQ rub. Why make your own? Because you can customize the flavors to suit your taste, ensure it's made with the best ingredients, and avoid those pesky additives found in store-bought versions.
Prep: 5 minutes
Total: 5 minutes
Save this recipe!
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Ingredients 

  • 2 Tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 Tablespoons paprika
  • 3/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon table salt
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional

Instructions 

  • Measure out all of the ingredients.
  • Blend the seasonings together to create the homemade bbq rub.
  • Store the seasoning in an airtight container in a cool dark place.

Notes

  • For a smokier flavor, try using smoked paprika.
  • If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can reduce or omit the brown sugar.
  • Store your rub in an airtight container to keep it fresh longer.

Nutrition

Calories: 10kcal, Carbohydrates: 3g, Protein: 0.1g, Fat: 0.04g, Saturated Fat: 0.01g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.02g, Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g, Sodium: 100mg, Potassium: 15mg, Fiber: 0.2g, Sugar: 2g, Vitamin A: 104IU, Vitamin C: 2mg, Calcium: 4mg, Iron: 0.1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Like this? Leave a comment below!

FAQs

Can I make this rub in bulk?

Absolutely! Just multiply the ingredients based on how much you need and store it in a cool, dry place.

How long will it last?

Stored properly, your homemade BBQ rub can last up to 6 months.

Is it spicy?

The cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat, but it’s optional. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste or skip it entirely for a milder rub.

Close up of the blended homemade bbq rub.

I love making my own BBQ rub because it adds such a personal touch to my meals, and knowing exactly what’s in it makes it all the better. Give it a try for your next BBQ, and let me know how it goes!

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Jen Gamble

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