9 Best Dry Rub Seasonings To Spice Up Your BBQ Life

Grilling season is upon us and what better way to add mouthwatering flavor to your meats than with the perfect dry rub seasoning? Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just starting on your BBQ journey, using the right blend of spices can make all the difference.

In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to the 9 best dry rub seasonings that will elevate your dishes from good to downright amazing.

Understanding Dry Rub Seasonings: What They Are And How They Work

Dry rub seasonings are a delicious way to add flavor to meats, without the need for added liquids. They consist of a blend of dried herbs and spices that are massaged onto raw meat before cooking.

Unlike marinades or sauces, dry rubs don’t require any added liquids. Instead, the mixture adheres to the surface of the meat in its powdered form.

Furthermore, many dry rub recipes often include ingredients such as garlic powder and onion powder which contain allium compounds known to tenderize proteins.

And we can’t forget about other important aspects: choosing quality meats (like ribeye steak or pork butt) with just enough marbling will greatly improve not only tenderness but the mouthwatering barbecue food experience too!

Top 9 Dry Rub Seasonings For Mouthwatering Flavor

Quick Recommendation

If you’re in a rush, be sure to check out our quick recommendations list; otherwise, scroll down for more detailed product reviews.

• Elevate your home cooking with single-origin spices: Burlap and Barrel Salt & Pepper Collection
• Unleash the Ultimate Steak Flavor with Gourmet Seasoning!: Bolner’s Fiesta Uncle Chris’ Gourmet Steak Seasoning
• Transform your BBQ game with bold and savory seasoning!: Meat Church Holy Cow BBQ Rub
• Transform your BBQ game with this all-purpose backyard rub: Plowboys BBQ Yardbird Dry Rub
• Unlock Championship Flavor on Your Grill with this BBQ Rub: Killer Hogs The BBQ Rub
• Elevate your BBQ game with this versatile, award-winning rub: Kosmos Q Dirty Bird BBQ Rub
• Unleash Signature Kansas City Flavors on Your Barbecue Meats: Oakridge BBQ Competition Beef & Pork Rub
• Get championship flavor with this versatile BBQ seasoning: Bad Byron’s Butt Rub
• Perfect for enhancing the flavor of red meats: Hardcore Carnivore Black Rub

Comparison Table

Product Name	Unit Count / Item Form	Specialty	Brand
Burlap and Barrel Salt & Pepper Collection	6.0 Ounce / Powder	Natural, GMO-Free, Vegetarian, Vegan, Fair-Trade	Burlap & Barrel
Bolner’s Fiesta Uncle Chris’ Gourmet Steak Seasoning	20.0 Ounce / Powder	–	Bolner’s Fiesta
Meat Church Holy Cow BBQ Rub	10.5 Ounce / Flake	–	Meat Church
Plowboys BBQ Yardbird Dry Rub	14.0 Ounce / –	BBQ	Plowboys
Killer Hogs The BBQ Rub	16 Ounce / Rub	–	Killer Hogs
Kosmos Q Dirty Bird BBQ Rub	16 Ounce / Powder	Nonfat	Kosmos Q
Oakridge BBQ Competition Beef & Pork Rub	28.0 Ounce / Powder	–	Oakridge BBQ
Bad Byron’s Butt Rub	26.0 Ounce / Powder	No MSG	Butt Rub
Hardcore Carnivore Black Rub	13 Ounce / Powder	Gluten-Free	Hardcore Carnivore

1. Burlap and Barrel Salt & Pepper Collection

(Images Credits: Amazon)

Elevate your home cooking with single-origin spices.

Highlights

• Made from all-natural ingredients
• Free from GMOs and suitable for vegetarians/vegans
• High-quality, fair-trade spices sourced directly from their country of origin
• Comes in a collection of four different spice varieties: cinnamon, cumin, paprika, and turmeric
• Packaged in convenient 6oz containers
• Manufactured by Burlap & Barrel – a trusted brand known for producing top-notch spices

Burlap and Barrel’s Salt & Pepper Collection is a perfect gift for cooking enthusiasts. The collection contains six full-size jars of all-natural spices sourced from small farms worldwide.

The spices include Black Urfa Chili, Smoked Pimentón Paprika, Wild Mountain Cumin, Royal Cinnamon, Black Lime, and Sun-Dried Tomato Powder, each with a unique taste profile that can enhance any meal. Using sumac instead of traditional lemon or lime juice can add a surprising twist to your recipes.

Burlap and Barrel’s sustainable sourcing and high-quality packaging make it the best gourmet spice collection available today.

Pros

• Enjoy incredibly flavorful single-origin spices sourced directly from small farms around the world
• Enhance the taste of your everyday cooking with 6 full-size jars of hand-harvested, naturally dried, and organically grown spices
• Ensure natural goodness as all spices are non-GMO, non-irradiated, and have no additives or anti-caking agents
• Impress your loved ones with a beautiful gift box that features high-quality spices perfect for any dish

Cons

• May be considered pricey for some consumers
• Limited spices options compared to other brands
• Some may not prefer the taste of certain spices included in the collection

The Burlap & Barrel Single Origin Spice Gift Box is ideal for adventurous foodies who want to elevate their cooking. It contains single-origin spices sourced from around the world, grown and harvested by hand. Try it today to experience the true taste of spices.

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2. Bolner’s Fiesta Uncle Chris’ Gourmet Steak Seasoning

(Images Credits: Amazon)

Unleash the Ultimate Steak Flavor with Gourmet Seasoning!

Highlights

• Adds bold and delicious flavor to any steak or meat dish.
• Made with high-quality, gourmet ingredients for superior taste.
• Large 20-ounce bottle provides plenty of seasoning for multiple meals.
• Powder form allows for easy application and even coverage on all types of meat.
• Trusted brand with a long history of creating unique and flavorful seasonings.
• Versatile seasoning can be used on other dishes besides steak, such as chicken or vegetables.

Bner’s Fiesta Uncle Chris’ Gourmet Steak Seasoning is perfect for steak lovers who want exceptional flavor without sacrificing convenience or affordability.

The seasoning tenderizes and adds outstanding depth of flavor to any cut of steak. It comes in a 20-ounce size, ensuring there’s plenty of seasoning for hosting barbecues or preparing family meals. Simply sprinkle the seasoning on steaks before cooking or let them marinate for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor infusion.

Bolner’s Fiesta Uncle Chris’ Gourmet Steak Seasoning delivers expertise-level results straight from your grill, making it an essential addition to your kitchen and an excellent gift for barbecue enthusiasts.

Pros

• Enhances the flavor of steaks and other meats
• Perfect blend of herbs and spices for a delicious taste
• Large 20 oz bottle provides plenty of seasoning for multiple meals
• Versatile seasoning can be used on various types of meat and even vegetables

Cons

• Some customers may find the taste too strong or overpowering for their liking
• The seasoning contains salt, which may not be suitable for those on a low-sodium diet
• The packaging is quite bulky and may take up more space in your pantry compared to other seasonings

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3. Meat Church Holy Cow BBQ Rub

(Images Credits: Amazon)

Transform your BBQ game with bold and savory seasoning!

Highlights

• Delicious BBQ rub perfect for all meat types
• Made with high-quality ingredients, including sea salt and brown sugar
• Unique blend of herbs and spices for a bold flavor profile
• Comes in convenient bottle packaging for easy storage and use
• Perfect for grilling, smoking, or roasting your favorite cuts of meat
• Created by Meat Church, a trusted brand in the world of BBQ and grilling.

Meat Church Holy Cow BBQ Rub is a versatile seasoning perfect for enhancing the flavor of various types of meat such as brisket, ribs, and steak without overpowering them.

The Texas-inspired rub features bold flavors of pepper and garlic, delivering mouth-watering combinations of taste and tenderness. The 12-ounce container ensures that you have enough seasoning for multiple cookouts.

With easy-to-use packaging and competitive pricing amongst top-tier seasonings, Meat Church has proven to be an essential partner for achieving the perfect balance between smoky, juicy goodness.

Pros

• Elevates the flavor of beef, poultry, pork, and even veggies
• Contains high-quality ingredients, including premium sea salt and chili powder
• Adds a mouthwatering bark to your BBQ creations
• Versatile seasoning that can be used for grilling, smoking, or roasting

Cons

• Contains MSG, which may not be suitable for those with dietary restrictions
• May be too spicy for individuals with a low tolerance for heat
• Price point may be higher compared to other BBQ rubs on the market

This BBQ rub is perfect for the grilling enthusiast who loves to bring big flavor to their backyard barbecues. With Meat Church’s Holy Cow, they can experience bold and savory seasoning like no other – so fire up the grill and get cooking!

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4. Plowboys BBQ Yardbird Dry Rub

(Images Credits: Amazon)

Transform your BBQ game with this all-purpose backyard rub.

Highlights

• Authentic BBQ flavor for that classic taste.
• Generous portion of 14 ounces per bottle for extended use.
• High-quality ingredients are used in the blend for an authentic taste experience.
• Versatile dry rub suitable for all meats, including chicken, pork, and beef.
• Distinctive packaging to stand out on retail shelves or outdoor cookouts with friends and family.
• Trusted brand with a track record of excellence in creating mouth-watering BBQ rubs.

Plowboys BBQ Yardbird Dry Rub is a high-quality spice blend that adds the perfect flavor to your barbecuing needs.

This rub’s mouth-watering taste comes from its balanced mix of sweet and savory flavors, making it suitable for various types of meat. With a 14 oz container, you get enough rub for up to 392 servings, providing impressive value for money. Its exceptional taste profile elevates the natural flavor of barbecued meat, turning home-grilled dishes into finger-licking creations fit for food pros.

Overall, Plowboys BBQ Yardbird Dry Rub is an ideal choice for all barbeque enthusiasts and casual grillers.

Pros

• Elevates the flavor of your BBQ dishes
• Generous 14 oz container offers great value for the price
• 392 servings per package ensure you have plenty of rub for multiple grilling sessions
• Perfectly balances sweet and spicy notes to tantalize your taste buds

Cons

• May contain allergens: soy, wheat.
• Contains sugar and salt which may not be suitable for individuals on restricted diets.
• Some customers may find the flavor to be too sweet or salty.

This all-purpose BBQ rub is perfect for backyard chef who is looking to take their grilled meals to the next level. Create flavorful, mouthwatering dishes in minutes with Plowboys Yardbird Rub – get it today!

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5. Killer Hogs The BBQ Rub

(Images Credits: Amazon)

Unlock Championship Flavor on Your Grill with this BBQ Rub

Highlights

• Killer Hogs The BBQ Rub adds mouth-watering flavor to any meat or dish.
• Comes in an easy-to-use bottle for convenient application.
• Made with high-quality ingredients and no MSG, ensuring a natural taste.
• One bottle contains 16 ounces of delicious rub to last for multiple uses.
• Produced by Killer Hogs, a renowned brand in the barbecue industry.
• Suitable for all types of grilling and smoking methods.

Killer Hogs The BBQ Rub is a high-quality seasoning that elevates the flavors of your favorite meats and vegetables.

Made in the USA, this versatile rub offers consistent results for both professional pitmasters and backyard BBQ enthusiasts, making it a popular choice. It’s easy to use, risk-free and comes with a full refund option if not satisfied with your purchase.

With additional online resources available, this rub is a reliable and delicious option for anyone looking to enhance their grilling game.

Pros

• Consistent and delicious flavor every time
• Made in the USA with high-quality ingredients
• Trusted by professional pitmasters, chefs, and BBQ enthusiasts
• Risk-free purchase with the easy refund policy

Cons

• May contain allergens (such as mustard and celery) that could be problematic for some individuals
• Relatively expensive compared to other rubs on the market
• Some customers may not find the flavor to their liking

This product is perfect for busy backyard chefs and BBQ pros who want a consistent flavor every time they grill. Get the championship taste with Killer Hogs The BBQ Rub today!

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6. Kosmos Q Dirty Bird BBQ Rub

(Images Credits: Amazon)

Elevate your BBQ game with this versatile, award-winning rub.

Highlights

• Perfect blend of spices for delicious BBQ flavor
• Nonfat seasoning for healthier grilling options
• Large 16-ounce container provides ample supply for multiple cookouts
• Powder form makes it easy to sprinkle on meat or vegetables
• Made in the USA by Kosmos Q, a trusted brand in the BBQ industry
• Not discontinued and readily available for purchase.

The Kosmos Q Dirty Bird BBQ Rub is a versatile, award-winning spice blend designed to enhance the flavor of various dishes, including meats and vegetables.

The unique combination of herbs and spices creates a perfect balance of savoriness and heat that adds an extra dimension to any meal effortlessly. With its user-friendly nature, this rub guarantees consistent results and saves time compared to assembling individual seasonings.

If you’re looking for a high-quality seasoning that offers unparalleled versatility, invest in the Kosmos Q Dirty Bird BBQ Rub – a championship-quality product with explosive taste.

Pros

• Tested and approved by World Champions for guaranteed quality
• Versatile flavor that complements almost any dish
• Easy to use with customizable spice blend options
• Award-winning rub that enhances meat’s taste for deliciously succulent dishes

Cons

• May not be suitable for those who prefer a milder flavor
• Contains salt as the first ingredient, which may be a concern for those on sodium-restricted diets
• Some may find the price point to be higher compared to other BBQ rubs on the market

This product is perfect for the adventurous BBQ master who wants to move their cooking up a notch. With Kosmos Q Dirty Bird, you can transform ingredients both big and small into delicious and flavorful creations with a subtle kick of warmth – tantalize your taste buds today!

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7. Oakridge BBQ Competition Beef & Pork Rub

(Images Credits: Amazon)

Unleash Signature Kansas City Flavors on Your Barbecue Meats.

Highlights

• Perfect blend of spices for competition-level beef and pork dishes
• High-quality ingredients sourced from around the world
• Large 28 oz. container – perfect for multiple uses or large events
• Versatile powder form can be used as a rub, marinade, or seasoning
• Created by award-winning pitmasters with years of experience
• Adds incredible depth and flavor to any meat dish

Oakridge BBQ Competition Beef & Pork Rub is a top-quality spice blend that brings authentic Kansas City flavors to your home cooking.

This 28 oz high-barrier zip-top bag ensures freshness for an extended period, making it an ideal choice for professional chefs and novices alike. Its impressive balance of sweet, salty, and slightly spicy notes perfectly complements various cuts of beef and pork. Its consistency allows for an even distribution of meats, resulting in uniform crusts during cooking.

Oakridge BBQ uses all-natural ingredients without any preservatives or artificial additives, making it a quality choice for anyone seeking competition-worthy barbecue results.

Pros

• Elevates the flavors of beef, pork, ribs, and burgers to a whole new level
• Incorporates the iconic taste of Kansas City barbecue for an authentic flavor experience
• Crafted with premium quality ingredients that are selectively blended to deliver maximum flavor
• Comes in a large 28 oz high-barrier zip-top bag for easy storage and convenient use at home or competitions.

Cons

• May be too spicy for some taste preferences.
• Expensive compared to other rubs on the market.
• Contains sugar, which may not be suitable for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.

This Oakridge BBQ Competition Beef & Pork Rub is perfect for any barbecue enthusiast who wants to impress their friends and family with classic Kansas City flavors. Try it today and take your grilling game up a level!

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8. Bad Byron’s Butt Rub

(Images Credits: Amazon)

Get championship flavor with this versatile BBQ seasoning.

Highlights

• No MSG added, perfect for those with dietary restrictions
• Large 26-ounce size provides ample seasoning for multiple meals
• Unique powder form allows for easy and even distribution of food
• Brand name and packaging specifically target fans of grilled meats and BBQ
• Versatile seasoning that can be used on a variety of meats and vegetables
• Well-known among grill enthusiasts as a must-have seasoning in their collection

Bad’s Butt Rub is a versatile and user-friendly BBQ seasoning that enhances the taste of grilled meats and vegetables. Its well-balanced blend of onion, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and chipotle delivers savory and smoky notes, sure to elevate any dish.

As a trusted choice among championship barbecuers, this seasoning is perfect for all outdoor cooking enthusiasts. Its user-friendly design allows for easy application without any mess or fuss, and its complementary mix of ingredients makes it ideal for creating customized marinades or dry rubs. 

Overall, Bad Byron’s Butt Rub is an essential addition to any culinary arsenal.

Pros

• Adds delicious, smoky flavor to any dish
• Versatile seasoning for all types of meats and vegetables
• Created by award-winning barbecuers and professional chefs
• Large 26-ounce pack provides great value for home cooks and businesses

Cons

• May be too spicy for those who do not enjoy heat in their food.
• The large 26-ounce bottle may be difficult to store in a small kitchen or pantry.
• Some customers have reported receiving bottles with seals that are already broken upon delivery.

Bad Byron’s Butt Rub BBQ Rub is the perfect seasoning for competitive barbeque teams and professional chefs, as well as the weekend griller who enjoys bringing out a unique flavor to their outdoor meals. Try it today and taste the difference!

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9. Hardcore Carnivore Black Rub

(Images Credits: Amazon)

Perfect for enhancing the flavor of red meats.

Highlights

• Gluten-free formula catering to dietary restrictions
• Large 13-ounce container offers value for money
• Powder form allows for easy application and seasoning of meats
• Specifically designed for meat lovers with a rich, smoky flavor
• Perfectly balanced blend of spices and seasoning for optimal taste
• Produced by trusted brand Hardcore Carnivore

Hardcore Carnivore Black Rub is a versatile and premium charcoal seasoning designed to enhance the flavor of your grilled or smoked meats. Its unique combination of sea salt, spices, sugar, dehydrated garlic and onion, and activated charcoal intensify the flavors of red meat dishes, such as steaks and BBQ meats.

The black color contrast adds visual appeal and creates an exceptional taste upgrade for your meals. This rub has zero MSG and gluten content, making it suitable for various dietary preferences, including keto diets.

With cooking tips available on their website and social media channels, Hardcore Carnivore Black Rub is a must-try for all BBQ enthusiasts.

Pros

• Enhances the appearance of your meat with vivid color and contrast.
• Elevates the flavor of steaks, BBQ, and all red meats to new levels.
• Made from premium ingredients without any MSG or gluten, making it keto-friendly
• Easy-to-use shaker container allows for effortless seasoning application every time.

Cons

• May not be suitable for those who do not enjoy the flavor of charcoal seasoning.
• Not recommended for use on non-red meats or vegetarian dishes.
• Some may find the price point to be higher than other similar seasoning options.

Hardcore Carnivore Black Rub offers a unique mix of flavors and a striking presentation, perfect for enhancing beef and BBQ dishes. Get this rub today to elevate your grilling game with this bold and adventurous seasoning.

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How To Use Dry Rub Seasonings To Elevate Your Dishes

To elevate your dishes using dry rub seasonings, start by choosing the right type of meat and applying the rub generously before letting it rest and cooking to perfection – read on for more useful tips!

Choosing The Right Type Of Meat

Selecting the ideal cut of meat is an essential step in using dry rub seasonings to create flavorful, mouthwatering dishes. The type and quality of your chosen protein can greatly impact how well the seasoning blends with it and enhances its natural flavor profile.

To maximize the benefits of your dry rub seasoning, opt for cuts that have some marbling throughout the meat; this fat will aid in keeping your dish tender while also helping to distribute flavors more evenly as it breaks down during cooking.

Additionally, look for meats that have a good balance between lean muscle tissue and connective tissue; these aspects join forces to help retain moisture within the meat while still achieving tenderization through slow cooking processes like grilling or smoking.

Applying The Rub Generously

One of the crucial steps in utilizing dry rub seasoning is applying it generously to ensure every inch of your chosen meat is coated in delicious flavor. Start by patting the meat dry with a clean towel, removing any excess surface moisture.

Then, take a handful of your selected dry rub and spread it evenly across the entire surface of the meat.

To achieve an even coating, use one hand for handling raw meat while using your clean hand to sprinkle and press the spice mix onto all sides. This technique ensures that no cross-contamination occurs between raw food items and spices, keeping everything safe and hygienic during preparation.

Letting The Meat Rest

One of the most important steps in using dry rub seasonings for meat is allowing the meat to rest after applying the rub. As tempting as it may be to dig into that juicy steak or mouthwatering ribs right away, giving it time to rest will ensure that all those flavors have a chance to fully infuse into your dish.

For example, if you’re cooking a pork butt with a savory barbecue rub, letting it rest for at least 10 minutes will allow the juices to redistribute and prevent those tasty flavors from escaping as soon as you cut into it.

Cooking The Meat To Perfection

After applying the dry rub seasoning, it’s important to cook the meat to perfection. This step is crucial in bringing out the full flavor of the dish. For meats like ribs, pork shoulder or beef brisket that require a low and slow cooking method, it’s best to use indirect heat whether on a grill or in an oven.

For thinner cuts of meat like steaks or chicken breasts that are cooked quickly over high heat, it’s important to monitor them closely by using a thermometer to ensure they reach their desired internal temperature without drying out.

By following these guidelines for perfecting your meat-cooking technique along with using various dry rub seasonings from our top 10 list, you will elevate your dishes from ordinary meals to scrumptious feasts!

Frequently Asked Questions: 

1. How is a dry rub different from a marinade?

A dry rub is a blend of spices and herbs that is rubbed onto meat before cooking, while a marinade is usually a liquid mixture of that meat that is soaked in for several hours or even overnight.

2. Can you use a dry rub as a seasoning?

Yes, you can definitely use a dry rub as a seasoning! Just be sure to use less than you would if it were being used as an actual rub.

3. What ingredients are commonly found in dry rubs?

Dry rubs can contain a variety of ingredients, but some common ones include black pepper, brown sugar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cumin. Different types of rubs may also contain herbs like rosemary or thyme or spices like chili powder or cayenne pepper.

4. Do certain types of meat require specific types of dry rubs?

While there are some classic pairings (like pork and apple), the type of meat doesn’t necessarily require specific types of dry rubs. It ultimately comes down to personal preference.

5. Can you apply a dry rub right before cooking?

Yes! You can apply it right before cooking or even let it sit on the meat for up to 24 hours in the fridge for extra flavor infusion.

6. What are the best dry rubs to use?

There are many great dry rubs available to buy online or in stores. Some of the best include Plowboys Yardbird Rub, Honey Hog BBQ Rub, and Pork and Poultry Rub. Alternatively, you can make your own dry rub using a combination of spices and herbs that you love.

Conclusion: Impress Your Guests With These Delicious Dry Rub Seasoning Blends

Add flavor to your dishes with these top 10 dry rub seasonings, perfect for meat, poultry, fish, and tofu. Burlap & Barrel Salt & Pepper Collection and Bolner’s Fiesta Uncle Chris’ Gourmet Steak Seasoning are two must-have products.

Burlap & Barrel’s all-natural spice collection includes cinnamon, cumin, paprika, and turmeric in convenient 6oz containers.

Meanwhile, Bolner’s Fiesta Uncle Chris’ seasoning is versatile and can be used on other foods too. Try these two amazing products with the recipe list for the best dry rub seasonings.

They’re also great additions to your spice rack or gift set.