Homemade BBQ Rub Seasoning (Sweet, Smoky & Easy)

Name: Homemade BBQ Rub Seasoning (Sweet, Smoky & Easy)
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 1 ½ teaspoons cayenne pepper; 3 teaspoons garlic powder; 3 teaspoons onion powder; 1 ½ teaspoon paprika; 1 ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 ½ teaspoon salt; 1 ½ teaspoon black pepper; 3 tablespoons brown sugar

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We've been using this rub for years, long before having a backyard or any thoughts of outdoor cooking. This homemade BBQ rub is smoky, a little bit sweet, and packs just enough heat to keep things interesting. We use this seasoning on everything from wings to ribs to roasted potatoes-and it never lets us down.

Close-up of homemade BBQ seasoning blend in a glass jar with a wooden spoon.

Homemade BBQ Rub Seasoning Recipe

Whether we're smoking wings, seasoning shrimp, or throwing together last-minute pulled pork, this rub delivers big flavor with zero fuss. Make a batch, stash it in the pantry, and you'll be ready for grilling season anytime. Whether you're firing up the smoker for a weekend feast or trying to make your smoked BBQ chicken thighs a little more exciting, this BBQ rub won't let you down.

Ingredient Notes

Plate with measured piles of BBQ rub ingredients, including brown sugar, smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

See the recipe card below for quantities.

Ingredient tip

Want a deeper, more caramelized crust when smoking meat? Swap brown sugar for turbinado sugar!

Close view of shredded pulled pork on a cutting board with crispy bark pieces.

How to Use BBQ Seasoning

This rub is super versatile and works for:

Smoked chicken wings
Air fryer chicken thighs
Ribs, electric smoker pulled pork, or brisket
Grilled or smoked shrimp
Roasted potatoes
Mixing into mayo for a smoky dip

Pro Tips from Our Backyard

Adjust the heat: Add extra cayenne, chipotle powder or crushed red pepper flakes.
Batch it up: Double or triple the recipe and keep it in a mason jar for the season.
Use quality spices: Fresh spices equal better flavor. While they won't make you sick, expired spices tend to lose their flavor over time.

Overhead view of BBQ rub in a clamp jar with a wooden spoon, ready to use.

Recipe FAQs

How much rub should I use per pound of meat?

We typically use about 1-2 tablespoons per pound. Adjust to your taste.

Is this rub super spicy?

It has a subtle kick, but nothing crazy. Feel free to reduce or skip the cayenne.

Will sugar burn on the grill?

Sugar caramelizes and creates a nice, flavorful crust, but it can sometimes burn at high temperatures. This rub is great for low-and-slow cooking and indirect heat grilling. If you're using it on a hot grill with flames, keep a close eye on your meat and consider flipping it more frequently.

How to Store Homemade BBQ Seasoning

Store your rub in a sealed spice jar or other airtight container for up to 6 months.
Keep it in a cool, dry spot-away from heat and moisture. Dark pantries or cabinets are great.

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Homemade BBQ spice rub in a glass jar, packed with rich, smoky color and texture.

Homemade BBQ Rub Seasoning (Sweet, Smoky & Easy)

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Sarah Hill

This Homemade BBQ Rub is smoky, sweet, and a little bit spicy. It's made with pantry spices in 5 minutes and is perfect for ribs, wings, chicken thighs, shrimp, and more.

12 servings

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

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Ingredients

1 ½ teaspoons cayenne pepper
3 teaspoons garlic powder
3 teaspoons onion powder
1 ½ teaspoon paprika
1 ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
1 ½ teaspoon salt
1 ½ teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons brown sugar

Instructions

In a small bowl, mix together the spices and brown sugar.
Transfer the spice mix to an airtight container or spice jar. Store in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.