Classic 5-Ingredient BBQ Rub Recipe

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Big barbecue flavor doesn’t have to mean a big shopping list. This Classic 5-Ingredient BBQ Rub blends smoky paprika, coarse sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder into a simple, all-purpose seasoning that’s perfect for ribs, chicken, pork, or even roasted vegetables. Mix it up in minutes and keep it on hand for effortless grilling any day of the week.

This quick rub isn’t just for summer grilling—sprinkle it on weeknight chicken, baked potatoes, or roasted veggies to bring smoky-sweet barbecue flavor to any meal.

Ingredients

• Paprika – Adds a mild, sweet smokiness.
• Coarse Sea Salt – Enhances all the flavors in the blend.
• Coarse Ground Black Pepper – Provides a bold kick.
• Garlic Powder – Adds a savory, aromatic depth.
• Onion Powder – Complements the garlic with a hint of sweetness.

How to Make BBQ Rub

1. Mix Ingredients: In a small mixing bowl, combine all the spices.

1. Whisk Thoroughly: Stir until fully blended and no lumps remain.

1. Store Properly: Transfer to an airtight container and keep in a cool, dry place for up to three months.

Love easy, bold barbecue flavors? Pair this rub with Smoked Ribs, rub it on Slow Cooker Pulled Pork, or use it to season Crockpot Roast. If you’re looking for a more complex spice mix, try my Best BBQ Rub Recipe for another flavorful option.

Lynda – Southern Kissed

BBQ Rub

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This easy homemade BBQ Rub features a simple blend of paprika, sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Perfect for grilling meats, seasoning vegetables, or adding bold flavor to any dish!

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Prep Time 3 minutes mins

Total Time 3 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: seasoning

Cuisine: American

Calories: 17

Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• ¼ cup paprika
• 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt
• 1 tablespoon coarse ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder

Method

 

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine the paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Whisk until no lumps remain and the ingredients are fully combined.
3. Store in an airtight container, at room temp, in a dry area, for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 17kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 1gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0.1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.4gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.1gSodium: 1166mgPotassium: 121mgFiber: 2gSugar: 0.5gVitamin A: 2222IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 16mgIron: 1mg

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Tips for the Best BBQ Rub

• Opt for Smoked Paprika: To achieve a richer, more pronounced smoky taste, replace regular paprika with smoked paprika.
• Experiment with Additions: Try adding brown sugar for sweetness or cayenne for extra heat.
• Store with a Refresher Packet: This prevents clumping and keeps the rub fresher longer.
• Know Your Portions: This recipe makes enough for a rack of ribs or a whole chicken.

How to Use BBQ Rub

• Season Meat: Generously rub on chicken, pork, or beef before grilling or smoking.
• Sprinkle on Vegetables: Toss with roasted potatoes or grilled corn.
• Mix into Burgers: Blend into ground beef or turkey for extra flavor.
• Enhance Fries: Use as a seasoning for homemade fries or sweet potato wedges.

Final Bite

Have you tried this Classic 5-Ingredient BBQ Rub on ribs, chicken, or something unexpected? Share your favorite way to use it in the comments, and pass this recipe along to friends who love easy, homemade seasoning.