The Best BBQ Rubs In 2023

We’ve looked at flavor profiles, texture, and overall quality to ensure you have plenty of options to choose from when creating that perfect dish. From sweet and smoky flavors to classic American-style barbeque seasonings, there’s something here for everyone.

Top 20 BBQ Rubs For You In 2023

Nothing says summer like the smell of a backyard BBQ. Grilling up your favorite cuts of meat with a savory rub is an enjoyable way to spend time with family and friends. Finding the right rub can be tricky, so we’ve put together our list of the top 20 BBQ rubs for you. Whether you’re a fan of sweet or spicy flavors, these rubs will take your grill game to the next level.

Last update on 2023-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

BBQ Rub from Meat Church is sure to tantalize taste buds and have guests asking for more. This signature rub from the team behind Meat Church, one of the leading names in BBQ seasoning, is packed with flavor. With its combination of garlic, black pepper, mustard seed, cayenne pepper, and other spices, it’s sure to be a hit at your next cookout or BBQ-themed gathering.

Meat Church Holy Gospel BBQ Rub was designed with both flavor and versatility. It works great on beef, pork, and poultry, as well as vegetables making it a great choice for any dish that needs an extra kick of rich, smoky sweetness. Whether hosting a backyard BBQ or looking for something unique to add to your repertoire, this rub can’t be beaten.

Last update on 2023-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Kosmos Q is a BBQ brand making waves in the BBQ world. Their Cow Cover BBQ Rub is an all-purpose seasoning for grilled, smoked, and roasted meats. It features a unique blend of spices that allows you to create custom flavors without adding too much heat. Whether grilling up steaks or smoking some ribs, this rub will take your BBQ to the next level.

This rub has become popular amongst backyard grillers and competitive pitmasters alike. Kosmos Q’s signature blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and other secret ingredients makes it ideal for any meat or vegetable you might be cooking on the grill. The special combination of sweet and savory aromas creates a complex profile that helps bring out the natural flavors of whatever you’re cooking.

Last update on 2023-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Regarding great BBQ, Plowboys Yardbird Rub is one of the most well-known. This Kansas City-based company has provided BBQ lovers with the perfect blend of spices for over ten years, and their Yardbird Rub is no exception. Combining the flavors of garlic, onion, and paprika with subtle hints of dill and celery seed, this all-purpose rub can be used on everything from ribs to chicken to fish.

This BBQ rub is specifically designed to enhance the flavor of chicken, pork, and beef. Its unique blend of spices adds a bold kick to any dish without overpowering the natural flavors of your favorite meats. The combination of garlic, paprika, celery seed, and other spices makes for a complex yet well-balanced taste that will tantalize your taste buds. Plowboys Yardbird Rub also has just enough sweetness from brown sugar that adds an extra layer to the overall flavor profile.

Last update on 2023-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Lawry’s Perfect Blend Chicken & Poultry Rub is the perfect seasoning for any poultry dish. This famous blend of herbs and spices has been crafted by Lawry’s, a trusted name in the world of seasonings and spices, to give your poultry dishes an extra special taste. This delicious chicken rub will make your meals come alive with notes of garlic, onion, paprika, salt, and other flavors.

Combining ingredients creates a unique flavor that will please everyone in your family or at a dinner party. Whether you’re making roasted chicken, grilled turkey burgers, or sautéed vegetables with chicken strips, Lawry’s Perfect Blend Chicken & Poultry Rub adds just the right amount of flavor to take your meal from ordinary to extraordinary.

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Regarding barbecuing, no one does it quite like The Salt Lick BBQ of Driftwood, Texas. Founded in 1967 by Thurman Roberts and his wife Hisako Tsuchiyama, The Salt Lick has been serving up some of the best ‘cue that Texas has offered for over 50 years. The iconic restaurant is renowned for its Original Dry Rub, which has been perfected over the years to provide a unique flavor experience with every bite.

Made with a combination of sea salt, pepper, and other savory spices, this dry rub adds an extra flavor to each piece of meat cooked on the pit. It gives ribs that extra kick they need and makes pulled pork even juicier than before. Because it contains no preservatives or MSG, you can enjoy your meal knowing you’re enjoying something made with all-natural ingredients.

Last update on 2023-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Lillie’s Q Carolina Dirt BBQ Rub is a unique blend of spices, herbs, and flavors that create an unforgettable grilling experience. This all-natural rub from Chicago-based pitmaster Charlie McKenna takes traditional Southern-style barbecue to a new level. With bold notes of black pepper, garlic, onion, and smoked paprika, this rub will give your next grilled meal a savory flavor like never before.

This rub was perfected over the years in competition barbecue circuits and is now available for everyone to enjoy in the comfort of their own home. Every ingredient used in Lillie’s Q Carolina Dirt BBQ Rub has been carefully sourced so that you can be sure it’s both delicious and healthy. This spice blend offers a great flavor profile; it’s also low sodium and gluten-free.

Last update on 2023-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Plowboys BBQ is a leading name in the barbecue world. Founded by Todd Johns and his wife, Holly, Plowboys has produced some of the finest slow-smoked meats for over ten years. Their signature Bovine Bold & Yardbird Seasoning Rub has become one of their most popular products. This rub was created for beef and poultry and gives any meal an unforgettable flavor that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

The Plowboys BBQ Bovine Bold & Yardbird Seasoning Rub is made with a unique blend of spices, herbs, and other natural ingredients that give it its delicious taste. It’s perfect for adding brisket or ribs before smoking or grilling them up for an exceptional meal. It can also be used as a finishing seasoning when making burgers or chicken dishes.

Last update on 2023-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

At the crossroads of great taste and innovative recipes, Lane’s Ancho Espresso Coffee Rub strikes the perfect balance between an unforgettable meal and unparalleled flavor. This unique combination of coffee-infused BBQ rub offers a one-of-a-kind experience that tantalizes your palate and aroma senses.

This robust blend of espresso, paprika, garlic powder, salt, oregano, and other ingredients adds a smooth smokiness to grilled meats while infusing them with a hint of sweetness that’s sure to wow guests at your next summer cookout. Not only does this rub guarantee delicious results every time you use it – but its convenient shaker top makes application easy. So you can get to grilling in no time.

Last update on 2023-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Killer Hogs BBQ Rub is the perfect blend of spices and seasonings for any backyard barbecue. This Texas-inspired rub provides a unique flavor that will ask your guests for more. The Killer Hogs BBQ Rub contains all you need to take your barbecuing experience to the next level.

Created by award-winning barbecue pitmasters, the Killer Hogs BBQ Team, this rub combines sweet, spicy, and savory notes that bring out the natural flavors of meats like pork, chicken, beef brisket, or ribs. It enhances the taste of your food and is easy to use. Simply rub it into your meat before cooking or grilling.

Last update on 2023-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Killer Hogs BBQ Rub has been a staple in the barbeque world for years. Created by two brothers, Malcolm, and Waylon Reed, it is a unique blend of spices that gives any meat an unforgettable flavor. Whether you’re using it for seasoning your ribs or adding some zing to your chicken wings, this rub will not disappoint.

Killer Hogs The BBQ Rub HOT Bundle is an excellent kit for anyone looking to take their grilling game up a notch. It includes three bottles of their signature rubs that can be used on all types of meats and vegetables. Each bottle adds its distinct flavor, allowing you to customize your meal exactly how you like it.

Last update on 2023-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

If you love flavorful barbecue, you must try Melvin’s Barbecue Dry Rub Shake. This unique seasoning blend is the perfect way to add a bit of zing to your favorite meats and vegetables. Developed by Melvin, owner of a beloved local barbecue joint in Georgia, this dry rub shake will bring out the flavor in any dish.

This delectable seasoning mix is made with a combination of spices, including chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and more. With just one sprinkle, you can transform regular food into a meal that tastes as if it came from an award-winning pitmaster. It’s not just for barbecues; this dry rub shake is delicious on everything from steaks and ribs to seafood and veggies.

Last update on 2023-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Bone Suckin’ is an all-natural and delicious blend of spices and seasonings made especially for barbequing, grilling, baking, and roasting. It is a family favorite bringing friends and families together around the dinner table for over 30 years. Bone Suckin’ Sauce Bone Suckin’ Original Seasoning & Rub offers something special to every meal with its five signature ingredients – honey, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, mustard, and habanero peppers.

This versatile seasoning is appropriate for flavoring any dish, from pork chops to grilled vegetables or even popcorn. It can also be used as a marinade or sauce base with oil or butter. With its smoky-sweet flavor profile, it will tantalize your taste buds without overpowering the natural flavors of your food.

Last update on 2023-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Kosmos Q has released its Ultimate Rub Bundle, perfect for any grilling enthusiast looking to elevate their dishes to the next level. This bundle includes four rubs that are a must-have for anyone who wants to bring out the maximum flavor in their food. The rubs are perfect for adding intense flavor to pork, beef, chicken, and fish.

The Kosmos Q Ultimate Rub Bundle comprises four unique combinations of spices; Texas Beef, SC Chicken, Dizzy Pig, and Cajun Spice. Each combines a selection of herbs and spices to bring out the best flavors from whatever meat you’re cooking. From savory garlic notes to zesty chili pepper flavors, these rubs have been carefully crafted to ensure your meal is packed with flavor every time.

Last update on 2023-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Gates Bar-B-Q All Purpose Original Classic 2 Pack is the perfect way to add flavor to your next meal. This two-pack of spices features a signature blend that has been perfected over generations, providing an authentic taste of KC BBQ right in your kitchen. The rub is easy to use and can be used on all types of meats, fish, and vegetables for an unbeatable outdoor barbecuing experience.

This award-winning rub uses smoky paprika and garlic powder for a balanced yet flavorful combination. With just one shake, you can transform any dish into something truly special that will have your guests clamoring for more. Whether grilling steaks or baking vegetables, this two-pack provides enough dry rub seasoning to bring out the best in everything from ribs to chicken wings.

Last update on 2023-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

McCormick Grill Mates Barbecue Seasoning Rub is the perfect way to add flavor to your favorite grilled meats. This all-purpose seasoning rub features a blend of spices and seasonings that will bring out the flavors of your grilled creations. With McCormick Grill Mates, you can create delicious burgers, steaks, pork chops, and more with just one easy-to-use seasoning rub.

This barbecue rub combines black pepper and garlic for a classic flavor profile and brown sugar for sweetness. Sprinkle it onto chicken breasts or wings before grilling for an instant upgrade in flavor. You can also mix it into ground beef or turkey when making burgers or meatloaf to give them an extra punch of flavor.

Last update on 2023-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Cowtown BBQ Seasoning’s “Ranch Round-Up” Bundle is the perfect way to spice up your next barbecue. This unique blend of spices and herbs is a great way to add flavor to all your favorite dishes. The bundle includes six rubs perfect for grilling, roasting, or smoking your meats. Each rub is made with only top-quality ingredients, including jalapenos, spices, and garlic.

The combination of flavors creates an unforgettable taste that will leave you wanting more. With its robust flavor profile and easy-to-use packaging, Cowtown BBQ Seasoning’s Ranch Round-Up Bundle is sure to be a hit at any summer cookout. Whether you’re looking for something bold, smoky, or light and sweet, this bundle has something for everyone.

Last update on 2023-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Cowtown is the place to go for a good Rub. This Cowboy town is known for its rubs, some of the best in Texas. The locals know their stuff when it comes to rubs and will tell you there is no better Rub in Cowtown than the Squeal Hog Rub.

This rub consists of salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, and chili powder. All of these spices work together to give the rub its signature flavor. The Squeal Hog Rub also contains sugar which imparts a nice sweetness to the mixture.

Last update on 2023-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Operation BBQ Relief Rub is an all-natural, gluten-free seasoning blend specially formulated to add savory and zesty notes to your favorite meat. Whether grilling burgers at a backyard barbecue or slow-cooking ribs in your smoker, this rub will help you create delicious meals for friends and family. The unique blend of spices adds an unmistakable flavor to everything from beef brisket to chicken wings.

But did you know that Operation BBQ Relief Texas SPG BBQ Rub also offers multiple health benefits? This special seasoning blend contains essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A, which helps support healthy eyesight, and calcium and iron, which are important for strong bones and muscles. It’s also low in sodium, meaning it won’t cause spikes in blood pressure.

Last update on 2023-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Pride of Szeged Rib Rub, BBQ, Pork, and Beef Seasoning Spice Mix is a unique blend carefully crafted to bring out the best flavors in your favorite grilled meats. This award-winning spice mix comes from Szeged, Hungary—one of the oldest cities in Europe with a rich history of culinary excellence. This incredibly flavorful rub is perfect for adding an extra boost to ribs, brisket, pork shoulder, and any other barbecued meat you can think of.

This delicious blend features a combination of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper, along with several other signature ingredients that create a unique flavor you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re grilling up some classic barbecue or making your experimental dishes in the kitchen at home, this seasoning mix can take all your recipes up several notches.

Last update on 2023-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Traeger Grills has released their new SPC182 Veggie Rub, a unique blend of herbs and spices designed to give your food extra flavor. The Traeger SPC182 Veggie Rub is perfect for use on any meat or vegetable and is also gluten-free. This seasoning can be used as a rub or a marinade and add great flavor to your food.

What To Look For In The Best BBQ Rub?

Sweet/Spice

Whether you prefer savory and smoky flavors or a bit of heat in your rub, finding the perfect blend is essential to creating mouthwatering dishes. The best bbq rubs balance the two opposite sides of flavor profiles, combining ingredients like sugar and chili powder for an unforgettable meal.

Heat Intensity

When selecting a BBQ rub, it is important to determine whether you prefer mild, medium, or hot flavors. Milder rubs typically consist of mainly herbs and spices that add subtle flavor without overwhelming the taste buds. Medium-heat rubs usually include chili powder, cayenne pepper, and other spices that provide more heat while still complementing the natural flavors of the food without being too overpowering. Lastly, Hotter BBQ Rubs often contain two or more peppers like habanero and ghost, giving your food an intense kick.

Organic & Natural Options

Organic and natural ingredients provide healthier options than those made from synthetic chemicals. Natural products are usually free of artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, and other additives that may be potentially harmful if consumed in large doses. Additionally, organic spices often include herbs that have been farmed without chemical fertilizers or pesticides, which can be bad for the environment when used over time. Going with an organic option limits exposure to these potentially hazardous ingredients while providing more nutritious meals overall.

Ingredients To Avoid

Almost as important is knowing what ingredients to avoid when selecting the perfect rub for your barbecue. Ingredients such as MSG, preservatives, and artificial colors can have an unpleasant effect on the taste of food while having negative health implications too.

MSG is often a flavor enhancer in many foods but can be detrimental to those with asthma and other allergies. Although it has been associated with headaches and nausea in some individuals, studies reveal that these effects are only temporary. Likewise, preservatives are added to extend shelf life but can also make food less nutritious by blocking essential vitamins and minerals from being absorbed in the body.

Quantity VS Quality

The amount of rub you need will depend largely on how often you plan to use it and the size of your grill. Purchasing in bulk may be more cost-effective in the long run, but smaller sizes might be better if you don’t have a lot of storage space or are uncertain of the flavor.

Quality is also an important factor to consider when buying a BBQ rub. High-quality ingredients will produce far superior results than those with fillers or artificial flavors. Read labels carefully and look for spices that are organic and free from any preservatives for the best possible flavor experience.

Texture

When choosing a BBQ rub, please pay close attention to its texture. Rubs should have a coarse yet crumbly consistency. Think of it as sandpaper for your meat. If it’s too fine, it won’t stick properly and will disappear during cooking; if it’s too coarse, then not all of the flavors will be absorbed by your food. The ideal balance between coarseness and fineness will ensure that all flavorful ingredients are locked in and released at just the right time.

Cost

Cost is often a major factor when purchasing anything, including the best bbq rubs. Knowing how much you’re willing to spend on a quality product matters. Good BBQ rubs can be found at an affordable price or a more expensive one depending on your needs and preferences. Before making any decisions, research what options are available within your budget range. Look for products that provide the most bang for your buck; quality ingredients don’t necessarily mean costly ones.

Final Words On The Best BBQ Rub

When choosing the best bbq rub, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Each recipe has its unique combination of ingredients and flavors, so it’s important to find the right rub that works for you and your taste preferences. To find the best bbq rub, consider the type of food you plan on grilling or smoking. Different types of meat require different levels of seasoning and flavor profiles.

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