Homemade BBQ rub spice mix is easy to make using common pantry spices. Its smoky, tangy flavor enhances chicken, pork, burgers, steak, vegetables, and even potato chips.
This versatile BBQ seasoning blends chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and black pepper for a classic barbecue profile. It works great as a dry seasoning, a rub for grilling or smoking, or stirred into bottled barbecue sauce to boost flavor.
I first published this spice mix in 2015 as part of a homemade potato chip series. The recipe and photos have been updated for clarity and a better experience, but the simple, delicious mix remains the same.
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BBQ seasoning recipe for chips
Originally I shared this as a seasoning for homemade baked potato chips. It certainly works well on chips—sprinkle the mix on chips as soon as they come out of the oven—but it’s even more useful as an all-purpose spice mix for many dishes.
Is BBQ seasoning the same as a rub?
The terms often overlap, but they hint at texture and use. A BBQ seasoning powder is usually finely ground and ideal for sprinkling or mixing into marinades. A BBQ rub tends to be coarser and is used to form a crust or bark on grilled or slow-cooked meats. Either way, both add great flavor.
How to make
This spice mix takes minutes to prepare: measure the ingredients, stir them together, and store in an airtight container. Keep it in a sealed jar or zip-top bag for easy use.
Storage
Store the mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to six months. You can make a double or triple batch to have plenty on hand for the season.
How do you use BBQ spice?
This all-purpose BBQ spice mix pairs with grilled or roasted meats, vegetables, and potatoes. Suggested uses:
- Sprinkle on burgers before grilling for extra flavor
- Rub onto chicken, wings, or roasted chicken
- Sprinkle on baked or homemade potato chips right after they come out of the oven
- Season steak, pork chops, roast, or tenderloin
- Add a dash to baked potatoes
- Toss with cauliflower, broccoli, or corn on the cob before roasting or grilling
- Use on tofu for a savory boost
- Apply as a dry rub for oven-baked ribs
- Stir into bottled BBQ sauce to enhance flavor
To use as a dry rub, pat meat dry, optionally brush lightly with oil, then apply the seasoning and massage it into the surface. The rub can be left on for up to 48 hours for deeper flavor. For a wet marinade, mix the spices with a bit of broth, vinegar, or oil.
The mix also makes a thoughtful homemade gift—fill a small jar and tie a ribbon around it.
Changes to the recipe
The base recipe contains only spices—no salt or sugar—so you can adjust it to taste. If you want, add 1/2 teaspoon salt and/or 1/2 teaspoon granulated or brown sugar per batch.
Customize the mix by adding red pepper flakes, dry mustard, cayenne, cinnamon, turmeric, or celery seed. Substitute chipotle or ancho powder for chili powder for a smokier heat, or double the garlic for garlic lovers.
More seasoning mix recipes
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Recipe
Homemade BBQ Rub Spice Mix
Debi
Ingredients
- ½ tablespoon chili powder
- ½ tablespoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried chives
- ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a small dish until evenly combined. Store in an airtight container.
Notes
Sprinkle this spice mix on anything you like. It’s excellent on homemade potato chips right when they come out of the oven. Store in a sealed airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to six months.
Nutrition
Calories: 11 kcal • Carbohydrates: 2 g • Protein: 1 g • Fat: 0.3 g • Sodium: 18 mg • Fiber: 1 g • Sugar: 0.2 g
Nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on brands and measurements used.
