12 Amazing BBQ Rubs For Smoking for 2024

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Introducing 12 Amazing BBQ Rubs For Smoking for 2023, the ultimate guide for barbecue enthusiasts seeking to elevate their grilling game. Whether you are a seasoned pitmaster or just starting your culinary journey, these handpicked barbecue rubs are sure to tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests. From classic blends to innovative flavors, this curated collection showcases the best options available on the market for creating mouthwatering smoked meats. Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure as we delve into the rich and diverse world of BBQ rubs, exploring the perfect balance of spices, herbs, and seasonings that will make your dishes truly unforgettable.

Cattlemen's Cowboy Rub – Bold and Smoky BBQ Rub with Hickory Smoke, Molasses and Coffee Flavor

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Overall Score: 8.5/10

Cattlemen's Cowboy Rub is a bold and flavorful BBQ rub that combines hickory smoke, molasses, and coffee to create an irresistible taste. Made with premium ingredients, this versatile seasoning can be used with steak, chicken, pork, or ribs, and is perfect for low and slow cooking. It can be used as a dry rub or to create signature sauces and marinades. This Non-GMO Project Verified and kosher rub contains no added MSG, making it a guilt-free option for all your grilling and smoking recipes. With a 4.5/5 customer rating, this rub has received positive reviews for its flavor and versatility.

Cattlemen’s Cowboy Rub is a fantastic BBQ rub that delivers a bold and smoky flavor to your favorite dishes. Its versatile nature allows for use on a variety of proteins and vegetables, making it a must-have for all grilling and smoking enthusiasts. The absence of added MSG and the fact that it is Non-GMO Project Verified and kosher make it a guilt-free option. While some may find the hickory flavor overpowering and wish for stronger notes of coffee and smoke, the majority of users appreciate its unique taste and value for the price. Overall, Cattlemen’s Cowboy Rub is a top choice for anyone looking to elevate their BBQ game.

BBQ Bros Rubs – Ultimate Barbecue Spices Seasoning Set

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Overall Score: 9/10

The BBQ Bros Rubs (Western Style) is the ultimate set of barbecue spices seasoning for grilling, cooking, and smoking. It has received a 5-star customer rating with over 740+ customer reviews, making it a perfect gift for any occasion. The set includes jumbo size jars of California (11oz), Texas (13oz), and Kansas City (10oz) rubs. These handcrafted premium BBQ rubs are pitmaster approved and contain no MSG or gluten. The product comes with a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee, offering a full refund with no questions asked. With fast shipping and gift wrapping options available, this set is a must-have for all barbecue enthusiasts.

The BBQ Bros Rubs (Western Style) is a highly recommended seasoning set for all barbecue lovers. With its handcrafted premium rubs and authentic regional flavors, it adds a delicious touch to grilled, cooked, or smoked meats. The low salt content makes it a healthier option compared to other rubs on the market. The jumbo size jars ensure long-lasting use, and the product guarantee provides customers with confidence in their purchase. While the Texas rub may be too salty for some, the overall quality and flavor of the other rubs make up for it. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a backyard barbecue enthusiast, this set is a great addition to your spice collection.

RubWise Texas Style Brisket Rub

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Overall Score: 8.5/10

Experience the authentic taste of Texas with the Texas Style Brisket Rub by RubWise. This championship cook-off winning signature blend is a flavor-packed dynamo that takes your brisket to the next level. With a combination of salty, sweet, smokey, and savory flavors, along with a hint of chipotle, this rub creates a mouthwatering bite that will satisfy even the most discerning BBQ enthusiasts. Curated by top chefs from all parts of Texas, this rub is perfect for smokers, grillers, and anyone who loves to smoke and grill. Made with all-natural ingredients in the USA, this high-quality rub is the result of RubWise's expertise in producing original spice rubs for championship-winning cook-off winners. Enhance the flavor of your brisket, steaks, ribs, and burgers with this sensational Texas-style rub.

The Texas Style Brisket Rub by RubWise offers an authentic Texan flavor that will elevate your barbecue experience. With its mouthwatering blend of salty, sweet, smokey, and savory flavors, combined with a hint of chipotle, this rub is a winner. Made with all-natural ingredients and curated by top Texas chefs, you can trust the quality and authenticity of this product. While some may find it slightly salty or consider the price to be on the higher side, the overall consensus is positive. Whether you’re a professional pit-master or a backyard BBQ enthusiast, this rub is sure to impress. Give your brisket, steaks, ribs, and burgers the taste of Texas with the Texas Style Brisket Rub by RubWise.

Rub Your Butt Championship BBQ Seasoning Gift Pack

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Overall Score: 8/10

The Rub Your Butt Championship BBQ Seasoning Gift Pack is a delightful assortment of BBQ rubs that are perfect for adding flavor to your meals. This gift pack includes KC Butt Spice, Pig's Ass Rub Memphis Style, and Carolina Style Rub Some Butt. Each rub offers a unique flavor profile to enhance the taste of your favorite meats. The rubs come in a 19.2 oz. container and can serve multiple meals. They are versatile and can be used on pork, chicken, steak, and more. These rubs have received excellent reviews for their delicious flavors and easy-to-use application. Whether you're grilling or cooking in the oven, these rubs will take your BBQ game to the next level.

The Rub Your Butt Championship BBQ Seasoning Gift Pack is a recommended choice for BBQ enthusiasts who want to add delicious flavors to their meals. With a variety of rubs included, you can experiment with different flavors to enhance the taste of your favorite meats. The rubs are easy to use and have received rave reviews for their versatility and excellent flavors. However, be cautious about packaging variations and ensure the product arrives sealed. Overall, this gift pack is a fantastic addition to any BBQ lover’s pantry and will elevate your grilling game.

Project Smoke BBQ Spice Rub Seasoning Combo Pack

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Overall Score: 9.2/10

The Steven Raichlen's Project Smoke BBQ Spice Rub Seasoning Combo Pack is a collection of six world-wide authentic international barbecue rubs. These high-quality rubs are perfect for enhancing the flavor of steak, ribs, chicken, vegetables, fish, and more. The set includes Malabar Steak Rub, Greek Island Herb Rub, Fennel Pepper Rub, Kansas City Smoke, Carolina Pit Powder, and Santa Fe Coffee. These dry BBQ seasonings are gluten-free and kosher, making them an ideal gift for any BBQ lover. The rubs are packed in full-size bottles, providing great value for money. Overall, this combo pack offers a variety of delicious flavors that will elevate your grilling and cooking to the next level.

The Steven Raichlen’s Project Smoke BBQ Spice Rub Seasoning Combo Pack is a must-have for any BBQ lover. With its collection of six delicious world-wide rubs, you can easily enhance the flavors of your grilled dishes. The rubs are gluten-free and kosher, making them suitable for various dietary needs. The full-size bottles provide excellent value for money. While some customers experienced issues with packaging, the majority were satisfied with the product. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting out, this combo pack will take your BBQ game to the next level and impress your family and friends.

BBQ Barbecue Spices and Seasonings Set

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Overall Score: 8/10

The Spice Lab BBQ Barbecue Spices and Seasonings Set is an ultimate grilling accessories set that contains 4 shaker jars of different seasoning rubs. Made in the USA, these seasonings are perfect for ribs, meats, poultry, seafood, and even vegetables and popcorn. The versatile and addictive blends are masterfully blended by a professional chef, using tasty, rich, all-natural ingredients that add mouthwatering flavor to every meal. This spice set makes a great gift for any steak seasoning fan, perfect for birthdays, holidays, and special occasions. The size of this assortment is 4 pieces. With an excellent customer rating of 4.7/5, this set is highly recommended.

The Spice Lab BBQ Barbecue Spices and Seasonings Set is a fantastic gift set for anyone who loves grilling and barbecuing. The versatile and addictive blends offer mouthwatering flavors to enhance a variety of dishes, including ribs, meats, poultry, seafood, vegetables, and even popcorn. Made in the USA with all-natural ingredients, these seasonings are masterfully blended by a professional chef to ensure the perfect kick in every meal. While there have been a few cases of customers receiving expired products, overall, this set has received excellent reviews and is highly recommended for its flavor and value. Whether you’re looking to treat yourself or gift it to a steak seasoning fan, this set is sure to impress.

Project Smoke Gourmet BBQ Spice Seasonings Gift Box

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Overall Score: 8/10

Spice up your cooking and grilling with Steven Raichlen's Project Smoke Gourmet BBQ Spice Seasonings Gift Box. This 3-pack gift set includes authentic barbecue flavors from around the world. Each flavor, including Kansas City Smoke, Carolina Pit Powder, and Santa Fe Coffee Rub, adds a unique twist to your dishes. Whether you're grilling steak, ribs, chicken, vegetables, or seafood, these seasonings are the perfect addition. Steven Raichlen, a renowned master griller, has curated this set to elevate your barbecue experience. The gift box packaging also makes it an excellent choice for Father's Day, birthdays, or other special occasions.

Steven Raichlen’s Project Smoke Gourmet BBQ Spice Seasonings Gift Box offers a great variety of authentic barbecue flavors to enhance your grilling and cooking. The sampler set allows you to try out unique rubs like Kansas City Smoke, Carolina Pit Powder, and Santa Fe Coffee Rub. The seasonings pair well with different meats, vegetables, and seafood, providing versatility for your culinary creations. While there have been mixed reviews on flavor preferences, this gift box is still a wonderful present for Father’s Day, birthdays, and other special occasions. Elevate your barbecue experience with Steven Raichlen’s expertly curated spice seasonings.

Steven Raichlen's BBQ Spice Seasonings Gift Set

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Overall Score: 7.5/10

Introducing Steven Raichlen's Project Smoke Gourmet BBQ Spice Seasonings Gift Set, a 3-pack assortment of world-wide, authentic barbecue flavors. This gift set allows you to try out all 3 unique American gourmet BBQ dry rubs to spice up your cooking and grilling skills. The flavors include Kansas City Smoke, Carolina Pit Powder, and Santa Fe Coffee Rub, offering a diverse range of delicious tastes. Steven Raichlen, a renowned master griller, brings his expertise to this set, ensuring high-quality seasonings. These BBQ spice seasonings are perfect for adding a punch of flavor to steak, ribs, chicken, vegetables, seafood, and more. Whether you're hosting cookouts, smoking or grilling, this gift set will elevate your culinary creations. It also makes an exceptional gift idea for Father’s Day, birthdays, and holidays for the grill enthusiast in your life.

Steven Raichlen’s Project Smoke Gourmet BBQ Spice Seasonings Gift Set offers a tantalizing selection of authentic and flavorful dry rubs. With unique American rub flavors, you can elevate your grilling and smoking game to new heights. While some reviewers found the flavors to be underwhelming and the packaging lacking, the majority enjoyed the variety and versatility these rubs bring to their meals. From special occasions to everyday cooking, this gift set is a great addition to any BBQ enthusiast’s pantry. Give your taste buds a treat and explore the delicious world of Steven Raichlen’s BBQ Spice Seasonings Gift Set.

Rufus Teague Big Box O' Rub Variety Pack – Premium BBQ Rub – 5 Bottles

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Overall Score: 9/10

The Rufus Teague Big Box O' Rub Variety Pack is the ultimate BBQ rub collection. With a masterful blend of herbs and spices, these award-winning rubs are packed with mouthwatering flavors that will elevate your meals. Made in America with love and quality ingredients, the rubs are non-GMO Project Verified, gluten-free, Kosher, and free from MSG. Each bottle contains a generous 6.49 ounces of premium BBQ rub. From steak to fish, these rubs will make all meats flavorful. However, some customers have reported broken seals on arrival, which can be disappointing. Overall, this variety pack of BBQ rubs is a great addition to your seasoning cupboard or a perfect gift for any grill enthusiast.

Despite a minor issue with broken seals, the Rufus Teague Big Box O’ Rub Variety Pack is a fantastic selection of premium BBQ rubs that will take your grilled dishes to the next level. With award-winning flavors and high-quality ingredients, the rubs are versatile and perfect for chefs and grill masters. From steaks to fish, they add mouthwatering taste to any meat. The non-GMO Project Verified, gluten-free, Kosher, and MSG-free nature of the rubs ensures a natural and wholesome seasoning option. If you’re looking to enhance your grilling experience or seeking a thoughtful gift for a BBQ enthusiast, this variety pack is a must-have. Just keep an eye out for any potential packaging issues upon delivery.

BBQ BROS RUBS – Barbecue Spices Seasoning Set

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Overall Score: 8/10

The BBQ BROS RUBS (Southern Style) is the ultimate barbecue seasoning set that is perfect for grilling, cooking, and smoking. This set includes three handcrafted premium BBQ rubs – Memphis (10oz), New Orleans (8oz), and Carolina's (11oz). These authentic regional award-winning recipe rubs are pitmaster approved, contain no MSG, and are gluten-free. The set comes with options for gift wrapping and fast shipping, making it an ideal gift for any occasion. The BBQ BROS RUBS are backed by a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee and offer a full refund with no questions asked. With over 1,600+ customer reviews and a 4.5/5 rating, these rubs have been praised for their good flavor, value, and exceptional quality. However, some customers have reported issues with seals being open and bottles appearing old. Overall, the BBQ BROS RUBS (Southern Style) offers a delicious and versatile seasoning set for BBQ enthusiasts.

The BBQ BROS RUBS (Southern Style) is a highly recommended barbecue seasoning set for grilling, cooking, and smoking. With its handcrafted premium BBQ rubs, pitmaster approval, and gluten-free ingredients, it offers delicious and authentic flavors. The sizeable jars provide exceptional value, and the product guarantee ensures customer satisfaction. While there have been some issues reported with packaging and labeling, the outstanding customer service provided by BBQ Bros is commendable. Overall, these rubs are loved by customers for their great taste, versatility, and affordable price. Whether you’re a BBQ enthusiast or looking for a gift for someone who loves to grill, the BBQ BROS RUBS (Southern Style) is a fantastic choice.

Spiceology Smoky Honey Habanero BBQ Rub – Sweet & Spicy Flavor

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Overall Score: 8.7/10

Spiceology Smoky Honey Habanero BBQ Rub is a versatile and delicious seasoning that can be used on a variety of proteins and vegetables. It adds a smoky, sweet, and spicy flavor to your dishes, making them more exciting and tasty. This bbq rub is packed in a glass jar, making it a great gift option or a convenient addition to your kitchen counter or grill area. It is packed fresh in the USA, ensuring high quality and freshness. Sprinkle this seasoning on meats, vegetables, sauces, marinades, and dressings to enhance their taste and appeal. With its combination of smoky, honey, and habanero flavors, this BBQ rub is a must-have for your grilling and smoking adventures.

Spiceology Smoky Honey Habanero BBQ Rub is an excellent addition to your pantry if you’re looking to add a delicious smoky, sweet, and spicy flavor to your barbecue dishes. Its versatility makes it suitable for use on various proteins and vegetables, while also enhancing the taste of sauces and marinades. The seasoning’s glass jar packaging adds a touch of elegance, and its fresh packing in the USA ensures optimal quality. While the flavors can be overpowering when eaten alone, the true magic of this seasoning comes alive when sprinkled on your favorite dishes. From tacos to smoked meats, this BBQ rub will elevate your culinary creations to new heights. Just be cautious and mindful of personal preferences when it comes to the texture and intensity of the flavors.

Steven Raichlen's BBQ Spice Rub Seasoning Combo Gift Box

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Overall Score: 8/10

Enhance your grilling experience with the Steven Raichlen's Project Smoke BBQ Spice Rub Seasoning Combo Gift Box! This 6-pack gift set includes a variety of world-wide, authentic barbecue flavors to elevate your cooking and grilling. With flavors like Malabar Steak, Mediterranean Herb, Fennel Pepper, Kansas City Smoke, Carolina Pit Powder, and Santa Fe Coffee Rub, you can indulge in delicious and unique flavors. These seasonings are perfect for steak, ribs, chicken, vegetables, seafood, and more. Packaged in a gift box, this combo makes an ideal gift for Father's Day, birthdays, and holidays. Try out these gourmet rubs and bring your barbecues to the next level!

The Steven Raichlen’s Project Smoke BBQ Spice Rub Seasoning Combo Gift Box offers a delightful selection of gourmet barbecue flavors that will take your grilling to new heights. While some individuals may not prefer certain flavors, the versatility of these rubs ensures there is something for everyone. The gift box packaging adds a touch of elegance and makes it a great choice for gifting occasions. However, there have been reports of packaging issues, so it’s advisable to check the condition upon arrival. Overall, this combo is a must-try for barbecue enthusiasts looking to explore new taste sensations.

Buyer's Guide: BBQ Rubs for Smoking

Having the right BBQ rub is essential for achieving mouthwatering, flavorful smoked dishes. Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or a beginner, finding the perfect rub for your smoked creations can elevate your culinary skills to new heights. To help you navigate the vast world of BBQ rubs, we present to you the ultimate buyer's guide.

Types of BBQ Rubs

There are various types of BBQ rubs available in the market, each offering distinct flavors and characteristics. Here are some common types to consider:

1. Sweet Rubs: Sweet rubs are known for providing a balance of sweetness and smokiness. They often contain ingredients like brown sugar, honey, or molasses, which caramelize beautifully during the smoking process.
2. Savory Rubs: Savory rubs emphasize flavors such as herbs, spices, and garlic. These rubs are versatile and great for enhancing the natural flavors of meats, giving them a savory and well-rounded taste.
3. Spicy Rubs: Spicy rubs are for those who enjoy a fiery kick in their BBQ. They usually contain chili powders, cayenne pepper, or hot sauces. Be cautious with the level of heat, as it can vary from mild to extremely hot.
4. Regional Rubs: Each barbecue region in the world has its own unique style of rub. From the tangy and peppery Kansas City style to the mustard-based rubs of South Carolina, exploring regional rubs can be a delightful culinary adventure.

Considerations when Choosing BBQ Rubs

When selecting the perfect BBQ rub for smoking, keep the following factors in mind:

• Type of Meat: Consider the type of meat you plan to smoke. Different meats pair well with specific flavors. For instance, poultry may benefit from sweet rubs, while beef or pork might be better suited for spicy or savory rubs.
• Intensity of Flavor: Decide how bold or subtle you want the flavors to be. Some rubs deliver a bold punch, while others provide a more nuanced taste. Experimentation is key to finding the perfect balance that suits your preferences.
• Ingredient Quality: Check the ingredient list for high-quality components. Look for natural ingredients and avoid rubs that contain excessive additives, preservatives, or artificial flavors.
• Level of Salt: Pay attention to the amount of salt in the rub. While salt is necessary for flavor enhancement, excessive amounts can overpower the dish. Consider your sodium preferences and adjust accordingly.
• Ease of Use: Consider if the BBQ rub requires additional steps, such as marinating or resting time before smoking. Some rubs are simply dry blends that can be applied directly, while others may require a little more effort.
• Batch Sizes: Determine the quantity you'll need. Some rubs come in large quantities suitable for frequent smokers, while others offer smaller batches for occasional use. Consider your consumption needs before making a purchase.

Tips for Using BBQ Rubs

To ensure the best results, keep these tips in mind when using BBQ rubs for smoking:

• Preparation: Ensure your meat is well-prepared before applying the rub. Remove excess moisture by patting it dry and trim any excess fat if desired. This allows the rub to adhere better and enhances the bark formation.
• Even Application: Apply the rub evenly on all sides of the meat. Use your hands or a seasoning shaker to distribute the rub thoroughly. Make sure to cover every nook and cranny for consistent flavor.
• Resting Time: Allow the meat to rest after applying the rub. This allows the flavors to penetrate the surface and develop a crust. Depending on the size and type of meat, a rest period of 30 minutes to a few hours is recommended.
• Storage: Properly store your BBQ rubs to maintain their freshness. Most rubs can be stored in a cool, dry place for an extended period. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures to prevent flavor deterioration.
• Experimentation: Don't be afraid to mix and match rubs or add additional spices to create your signature blend. Adapt the recipes to suit your personal taste preferences and explore new flavor combinations.