15 Best BBQ Rubs for Flavorful Grilling

What are the keys that make a fantastic BBQ party?

It’s the backyard filled with a pleasant atmosphere, the laughs and stories that people share with each other, and notably, the delicious grilled meat spreading its enchanted aroma over the yard.

To enjoy such a juicy and flavorful piece of meat, you definitely can’t forget BBQ rubs. It is secret magic lifting your BBQ game into a whole different level.

However, choosing a suitable BBQ rubs for your foods is not something piece of cake. There are many BBQ rub brands with various flavors available on the market, which may cause you tons of time to find the best one.

Therefore, I already wrote this 15 best BBQ rubs reviews to help you save your time with it.

Before going into the review section, don’t mind spending a few seconds to understand some basic information about what you are going to buy.

What Are BBQ Rubs?

BBQ Rub is a blend of various crushed ingredients and spices, which is prepared to rub over the meat before it goes into cooking. With BBQ Rubs, you don’t have to apply it for hours in advance like seasoning or sauce.

A typical BBQ Rub is a mingle of salt, brown sugar, pepper, paprika, which are the base spices, and other ingredients such as herb, garlic, chilies powder, cumin, celery, etc.

There are two types of BBQ Rubs: Dry rubs and wet rubs.

Dry rubs have no wet ingredients and are usually rubbed over large pieces of meat, such as brisket, steak, or ribs. Meanwhile, the wet rubs contain the same ingredients, but they are suspended in cooking oil or some other liquid.

What Are BBQ Rubs Used For?

The BBQ rubs are used for enhancing the flavor and imparting a beautiful caramel outlook for the meat. With the help of BBQ rubs, your meat will get crispy outside and appetizing inside.

I can’t see any reasons why people should skip the rub for the meats since it can ultimately bring your barbecuing game to a higher level.

What Are The Best BBQ Rubs Brands?

Here are some popular BBQ Rubs brands that are purchased enthusiastically on the market:

Pappy’s Choice

Has operated since 1960, Pappy’s company always strive to create unique and delicious products to complement amazing meals.

BBQ Bro’s

Founded by four pitmasters brothers who are a part of many prominent barbecuing communities throughout the US, BBQ Bro’s is famous for its 100% handcrafted, MSG-free and Junk free products.

Traeger

Traeger is a well-trusted brand that is providing high-quality BBQ rubs. Their products are made of premium ingredients and bring out premium flavors.

Which Are The Best BBQ Rubs On The Market?

Before going into the review part, let’s take a look at this list that I already created to find out the best BBQ rubs that perfectly meets your needs.

• Best Overall – BBQ Bros Rubs Southern Style BBQ Rubs
  “Gift wrapping; include 3 exotic flavors for different style preferences; handcrafted; no MSG and Gluten-free; full refund warranty.”
• Best Budget – Bone Suckin’ Original BBQ Rubs
  “Gluten-free; no sweeteners; non-GMO; no MSG; taste awesome in anything; high-quality ingredients; low sodium and calories.”
• Best for Brisket – Pappy’s Choice Original BBQ Rubs
  “Professional chef’s choice; suitable for any meats; made of high grade and premium ingredients; no MSG; gluten-free.”
• Best for Ribs – Killer Hogs BBQ Rubs
  “Bring out natural flavor; give a beautiful and charming look for your food; the taste is balanced with a special blend of spices.”
• Best Gift Set – FreshJax BBQ Rub Gift Set
  “Handcrafted; made of organic ingredients; comes in a lovely gift set; beautiful glass bottle package; offer 5 flavors for various using purposes.”
• Best BBQ Smoker Rubs – Wayward Gourmet Apple Smoked BBQ Rubs
  “Handmade in the USA; all-natural ingredients; brings a smokey, sweet and spicy in one rub; no MSG; gluten-free.”
• Best for Chicken – Traeger Pork and Poultry BBQ Rubs
  Kosher and gluten-free; Non-GMO; no MSG; made in the USA; Features a signature flavor from apple and honey.”
• Best for Pork – Jack Daniel’s Original BBQ Pork Rubs
  “No MSG, gluten-free; add a kick of flavor for the pork; sweet and spicy.”
• Best for Beef – Traeger BBQ Coffee Rubs
  “Featured in coffee and black pepper flavor; non-GMO; Kosher and Gluten-free; produced in the USA.”
• Best for Steak – McCormick Montreal BBQ Rubs
  “No artificial flavors; Gluten-free; no MSG; Made of natural spices and herbs; suitable not only for steak but also for other regular meats.”
• Best With Coffee and Garlic – Trader Joe’s BBQ Rubs
  “Gives an exotic and abundant flavor; made from natural ingredients; can be used as a seasoning.”
• Best Without Brown Sugar – Bad Byron’s BBQ Rubs
  “Gluten-free; no MSG, Kosher; suitable for people who are on no-sugar diet; brings an outdoor flavor.”
• Best Low Sodium – Spiceology Black Magic BBQ Rubs
  “Non-irradiated; no preservatives; sprinkle on any protein and grill or smoke; packed with warm Cajun blackening spices.”

BBQ Rub Comparison Table 2021

Top 15 best BBQ Rubs are already featured in the following chart. Don’t mind spending a minute to check through as it will help you make a quick comparison of these listed products.

Top 15 Best BBQ Rub Reviews in 2021

Now it’s the time that you are waiting for the most. Let’s dive into reviewing every product in detail and seeing its strength and drawback. I hope that you will find out your best BBQ Rubs after reading my review.

1. BBQ Bros Rubs Southern Style BBQ Rubs

(Best Overall)

This rub set from BBQ Bros Rubs is featured with three southern-style flavors:

Memphis style: Ideal for steak and garlic wings served with baked potatoes and sour cream.

Carolina style: Blended with spicy red pepper and other ingredients, it is excellent for flaming spicy barbecue party.

New Orleans style: Crafted specifically for any sea critter such as crawfish, lobster, crab, etc.

This BBQ rubs set is designed for any grilling preference. Whether you choose to grill in the kitchen or the smoker, it still brings the best flavor for the meats. Furthermore, the manufacturer also offers a satisfaction warranty with a full refund in case you are not satisfied.

Key Features:

• Handcrafted
• Comes in a gift wrapping
• Includes 3 flavors for different style preferences
• Made for different grilling preferences

Product Specifications:

Dimensions	8.3 x 6.5 x 3.7 inches
Weight	2.26 pounds
Calories/Serving size: ¼ tsp	2.5
Sodium/ Serving size ¼ tsp	80mg
Gluten And MSG Free	Yes

2. Bone Suckin’ Original BBQ Rubs

(Best Budget)

Nothing can describe how much I appreciate this rub. Bone Suckin’ offers its consumer a great option for a BBQ rub that is healthy and super affordable at the same time.

Sourced and made in the USA with the highest quality ingredients, it doesn’t contain gluten, MSG, GMO, and fructose corn syrup. This BBQ rub has been rated A+ in Health Magazine and is an ideal choice for protecting people’s health.

This rub is a proprietary blend of brown sugar, paprika, garlic, mustard, onion, celery, etc. It can significantly enhance the flavor for any meat or other dishes such as salad, pasta, and popcorn.

Key Features:

• Gluten-free
• Non-GMO
• No added colors
• No sweetener

Product Specifications:

Dimensions	2.2 x 2.2 x 5.1 inches
Weight	0.45 pounds
Calories/Serving size: ¼ tsp	2.5
Sodium/ Serving size ¼ tsp	55mg
Gluten And MSG Free	Yes

This video will show you how to make tasty ribs with Bone Suckin’ BBQ rubs:

3. Pappy’s Choice Original BBQ Rubs

(Best for Brisket)

This Pappy’s Choice original BBQ Rubs is one of the most popular dry rubs for Santa Maria-style tri-tip. If you aim to make an incredibly flavorful and juicy piece of meat in the classic California style, you shouldn’t pass this BBQ rubs.

Made of high-grade spices and premium quality fresh ingredients that are sourced from all over the wall, this Pappy’s Choice rub is the favorite choice of both professional chefs and family.

Pappy’s Choice original BBQ rub does a great job at creating an appetizing smell and an awesome taste for the meats. Moreover, its amazing versatility allows it to go with multiple types of meat and vegetables, make it easy for you to have an interesting BBQ party.

Key Features:

• Made of premium quality ingredients
• No MSG
• Gluten-free
• Professional chef’s choice

Product Specifications:

Dimensions	7.8 x 3.6 x 3.2 inches
Weight	2.2 pounds
Calories/Serving size: ¼ tsp	0
Sodium/ Serving size ¼ tsp	290 mg
Gluten And MSG Free	Yes

4. Killer Hogs BBQ Rubs

(Best for Ribs)

This Killer Hogs BBQ Rub was developed and perfected for many years by its passionate team. Therefore, now you can make sure that you will get the best rub ever from Killer Hong for your barbecue.

This BBQ rub is a balanced blend of natural spices such as brown sugar, salt, paprika, chili pepper, garlic, orange peels, onion, etc. Such great combination gives the meats an awesome taste inside and a beautiful, mahogany bark outside.

Plus, this rub is great at its low sodium percentage in the component, which ensures the meats are not getting too salty. However, since it contains MSG, you should consider it carefully if you react adversely to the MSG or have metabolic problems.

Key Features:

• The taste is a balanced blend of salt, sugar and other spices
• Give a beautiful and mahogany bark on beef, pork, and poultry
• Gluten-free
• Low sodium

Product Specifications:

Dimensions	2.5 x 2.5 x 6 inches
Weight	0.9 pounds
Calories/Serving size: ¼ tsp	5
Sodium/ Serving size ¼ tsp	55mg
Gluten And MSG Free	Contain MSG. Gluten-free

Want to see a instruction video about this Killer Hogs BBQ rubs? Check it now:

5. FreshJax BBQ Rub Gift Set

(Best Gift Set)

If you are seeking a BBQ Rub for gifting your loved people, this FreshJax BBQ Rub gift set will be the best option for you.

Though it comes from a small family company, it is wrapped in the most lovely package that is wonderful for any occasion: Thanksgiving, Christmas, Birthday, Father’s day and so on.

This gift set offers five beautiful glass jars of dry rubs in five different flavors: Pepper habanero, fresh bay, grill master, smoky Southwest, and citrus pepper. They are enough to make various dishes, from beef, pork, poultry, seafood to burgers, pasta, veggie.

Plus, the ingredients used in them are certified Organic by the Americert International. You can make sure this gift set will bring the best for the food taste and your health at the same time.

Key Features:

• Non-GMO
• Gluten-free
• No MSG
• Made of organic ingredients
• Comes in a lovely gift box with beautiful glass jars

Product Specifications:

Dimensions	8.3 x 6.5 x 3.7 inches
Weight	2.26 pounds
Calories/Serving size: ¼ tsp	2.5
Sodium/ Serving size ¼ tsp
Gluten And MSG Free	Yes

For more details about this lovely BBQ gift set, you can watch this video:

6. Wayward Gourmet Apple Smoked BBQ Rubs

(Best BBQ Smoked Rubs)

This Wayward Gourmet Apple Smoked BBQ rub brings a sweet, spicy, and smoky flavor for the meat. Therefore, it suits the best for anyone who is into the smoky taste.

As a blend of all-natural spices and other ingredients such as granulated honey, smoked applewood sea salt, garlic, onion, this dry rub makes the meat bursting in the combination of sweetness, smoky flavor, and spiciness.

Since the manufacturer keeps gluten and MSG out of their products, you can ensure it is a safe choice for your health. I highly recommend trying it on beef, pork, chicken, steak, and ribs to enjoy the best extraordinary flavor.

Key Features:

• Handmade in the USA
• Brings in a smoky, sweet and spicy flavor in one rub
• Ingredients are all-natural
• Gluten-free and no MSG

Product Specifications:

Dimensions	3.3 x 2.8 x 2.3 inches
Weight	0.55 pounds
Calories/Serving size: ¼ tsp	1.2
Sodium/ Serving size ¼ tsp	78mg
Gluten And MSG Free	Yes

7. Traeger Pork and Poultry BBQ Rubs

(Best for Chicken)

This Trager Pork and Poultry BBQ Rubs will turn your chickens into gourmet level with an amazing taste. It is featured of apple and honey flavor, makes it perfect for anything from a whole roasted chicken to pork tenderloin.

Without containing MSG, gluten, and GMO in the component, this rub is suitable for anyone, even for people who are on the Kosher diet.

Plus, this rub comes in a stackable aluminum tin container, which makes it easy for storage and decoration. With the premium quality from the ingredients and the flavor it offers, we can be proud as it is produced by the American manufacturer.

Key Features:

• Kosher and Gluten-free
• Non-GMO
• Origins from the USA
• Comes in an aluminum container

Product Specifications:

Dimensions	1.99 x 4 x 3.27 inches
Weight	0.7 pounds
Calories/Serving size: ¼ tsp	3
Sodium/ Serving size ¼ tsp	91mg
Gluten And MSG Free	Yes

8. Jack Daniel’s Original BBQ Pork Rubs

(Best for Pork)

If you prefer using pork in your barbecue party, this Jack Daniel’s Original BBQ pork rubs will help you to have the best tasting pork ever.

Made of subtle natural flavors and spices such as paprika, garlic, and sugar, this rub makes the pork bloom with signature spiciness and sweetness. You can use it to rub over any entrée of pork, from ribs, pork chops, pulled pork to pork butt.

Besides, this rub is free from gluten and MSG. Therefore, you can enjoy the delicious grilled pork without any concern.

Key Features:

• Add a burst of spicy sweetness to pork meat
• No MSG
• Gluten-free
• Best for pork butt or other cuts of meat

Product Specifications:

Dimensions	2.5 x 2.5 x 5.75 inches
Weight	0.6 pounds
Calories/Serving size: ¼ tsp	0
Sodium/ Serving size ¼ tsp	170mg
Gluten And MSG Free	Yes

9. Traeger BBQ Coffee Rubs

(Best for Beef)

Another great product from Traeger manufacturer: this Traeger BBQ coffee rub makes the beef taste perfect with the coffee and black pepper flavor.

As usual, the rub from Traeger always appears in an aluminum tin container, which is helpful when it comes to storing or decorating. This rub contains no GMO, MSG, and gluten. Plus, it can be suitable for the Kosher diet.

Key Features:

• Kosher and Gluten-free
• Non-GMO
• Feature coffee and black pepper flavors
• Produced in the USA

Product Specifications:

Dimensions	1.99 x 4 x 3.27 inches
Weight	0.6 pounds
Calories/Serving size: ¼ tsp	3
Sodium/ Serving size ¼ tsp	104mg
Gluten And MSG Free	Yes

10. McCormick Montreal BBQ Rubs

(Best for Steak)

Do you love making savory and thick juicy steak by yourself? I bet this McCormick Montreal BBQ rub will be an indispensable ingredient in your kitchen if you want to cook an epic steak for your family and friends.

This rub is made with natural herbs and spices such as garlic, paprika, coarsely ground pepper and does not contain MSG or gluten.

Even though it works the best with steak, you can use it to rub over other typical types of meat like chicken, pork, and seafood. With the participation of this rub, the meal will make anyone feel appetized by its mouth-watering smell and dazzling look.

Key Features:

• No artificial flavors
• No MSG
• Gluten-free
• Made from all-natural herbs and spices

Product Specifications:

Dimensions	2 x 6 x 6 inches
Weight	1.81 pounds
Calories/Serving size: ¼ tsp	0
Sodium/ Serving size ¼ tsp	180mg
Gluten And MSG Free	Yes

11. Trader Joe’s BBQ Rubs

(Best With Coffee and Garlic)

This Trader Joe’s BBQ rub is definitely the favorite choice of people who love a combination of coffee and garlic flavors.

This rub is a blend of natural ingredients and spices such as coffee, brown sugar, roasted garlic, sea salt, paprika, onion flakes, clemengold rind, etc. Such abundant combination brings a smoky, spicy, sweet, and salty flavor at the same time for your meal.

I recommend rubbing it over steak, pork, chicken, and fish to enhance the best flavor. Besides, you can use it as a seasoning for vegetables, baked potatoes, and pasta.

Key Features:

• Features a combination of different tastes (sweet, salty, smoke, spicy) for the meal
• Made from natural ingredients
• Used on steak, pork, chicken, and fish
• Can be used as a seasoning in a small amount
• Comes in a tin container

Product Specifications:

Dimensions	4.6 x 4.6 x 2.3 inches
Weight	0.7 pounds
Calories/Serving size: ¼ tsp	0
Sodium/ Serving size ¼ tsp	50mg
Gluten And MSG Free	Not specified

12. Bad Byron’s BBQ Rubs

(Best Without Brown Sugar)

While some people love adding sweetness to their meat, some people do not even stick with sugar in their diet. And if you are tired of finding a BBQ rub without brown sugar on the market, then don’t worry, this Bad Byron’s BBQ rub is here to help you.

This rub is a balanced blend of onions, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and smoked jalapeno. No brown sugar. It is widely used by both professional chefs and backyard cooks.

Plus, this rub is gluten-free and non-MSG. People who are on the Kosher diet can use it without any problems.

Key Features:

• Gluten-free
• No MSG
• Kosher
• No containing brown sugar
• Favorite choice of professional chefs and people cooking at home

Product Specifications:

Dimensions	3.2 x 8.2 x 2.8 inches
Weight	1.8 pounds
Calories/Serving size: ¼ tsp	0
Sodium/ Serving size ¼ tsp	172mg
Gluten And MSG Free	Yes

13. Spiceology Black Magic BBQ Rubs

(Best Low Sodium)

Are you looking for a low sodium rub? If yes, then there you go, this Spiceology Black Magic BBQ rub is all what you need. With an incredibly low sodium percentage in the component, it is one of the most healthy choices for your family and friends.

This Black Magic rub is produced in the USA, packed in a beautiful glass jar that makes it wonderful for a gift or kitchen décor.

It brings a delicious flavor and a good bark outside for any meats that you want. Plus, it also works well with potatoes, salad, and even seafood. As being exact as its name, this BBQ rub is black magic for any meat that it goes with.

Key Features:

• Non-irradiated
• No preservatives
• Sprinkle on any protein and grill or smoke
• Packed with warm Cajun blackening spices

Product Specifications:

Dimensions	2.8 x 2.8 x 3.5 inches
Weight	0.75 pounds
Calories/Serving size: ¼ tsp	0
Sodium/ Serving size ¼ tsp	35mg
Gluten And MSG Free	Yes

14. Pork Barrel All American BBQ Rubs

If you prefer a classic flavor for your barbecue, this BBQ rub from Pork Barrel will not let you disappointed. It enhances the meat with an irresistible aroma and flavor that brings the exact feeling of classic American barbecue.

This rub comes in a generous volume that is up to 22 ounces. You can use it for various meat such as chicken, pork, beef, fish fillet, and more. Besides, there’s no need to worry about the chemical contained since it is free from gluten and MSG.

In general, this rub is suitable to use on any occasion. Whether it is Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a typical day, this rub will breathe a classic atmosphere for any BBQ party that it goes in.

Key Features:

• Featured a complex flavor of classic American BBQ
• Comes in a significant volume: 22 ounces
• Taste great on many kinds of meat and veggie
• Suitable for any occasions or everyday meal

Product Specifications:

Dimensions	7.95 x 3.62 x 2.76 inches
Weight	1.19 pounds
Calories/Serving size: ¼ tsp	0
Sodium/ Serving size ¼ tsp	115mg
Gluten And MSG Free	Yes

15. Rub With Love Classic Salmon BBQ Rubs

This Rub With Love Classic Salmon BBQ Rubs will spread a new interesting flavor for your fishes barbecue.

Inspired by the Northwest’s favorite fish, this rub is made of the freshest and purest ingredients, such as paprika, thyme, and brown sugar. No MSG or gluten contains in this rub, so that you can enjoy the meal without any worrying.

Even though it is the salmon rubs, you can use it for pork cutlets, thick steak, chicken wings, or breast. It will add an amazing smoky flavor to any meat that it goes with.

Key Features:

• Has a rich and smoky flavor
• No MSG
• Gluten-free
• Northwest-inspired herb and spice herb
• Using the purest ingredients

Product Specifications:

Dimensions	4.72 x 4.65 x 3.94 inches
Weight	1.2 pounds
Calories/Serving size: ¼ tsp	3
Sodium/ Serving size ¼ tsp	41.3mg
Gluten And MSG Free	Yes

What You Should Aware When Purchasing BBQ Rubs

There are some aspects that you should consider thoroughly when it comes to buying BBQ rubs.

Ingredients

It is always necessary to check the ingredients of any edible things that you are going to purchase. Since the BBQ rubs are blended with many spices and herbs, you should check them carefully and make sure it doesn’t contain any ingredient you are allergic.

Besides, the ingredients will mostly affect the taste it brings to your food. It can be smoky, sweet, salty, or spicy, depends on the ingredient percentages. Check the ingredients to ensure the BBQ Rubs have the exact flavor that you prefer.

MSG And Gluten Content

Most of the BBQ rubs available on the market nowadays are free from MSG and gluten. Some even are for Kosher dietary. Don’t mind spending a few seconds to make sure the rubs you buy are free from these two substances.

Meanwhile, some BBQ rubs are still added MSG to boost the flavor of the rubs. If you prefer the extra flavorful taste, you can purchase it. Make sure you have no problems with MSG. However, to protect your health, please use the food containing MSG sparingly.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition facts are not less important since they shows clearly the percentage of primary substances such as calories, sodium and total fat. This is necessary for people who are on specific diets such as low sodium, no sugar, low cholesterol, etc.

The Compatible Meats

Another aspect that you should care about is the compatible meat of the BBQ rubs. The meat will taste amazing if it goes with the most suitable rubs.

If you are not interested in any specific kind of meat, stick with the BBQ rubs that are versatile and can be used for various dishes.

BBQ Rubs Vs. Marinade

The marinade is another ingredient for seasoning the grilled meat. However, it has different texture and advantages compared to BBQ dry rubs.

A marinade is a mixture of spices and acidic liquid such as vinegar, wine, or citrus. It generally takes more time to impart the flavor(about 12 hours for sizeable thick meat). Besides enhancing the taste for the meat, marinade also works as a tenderizer.

The BBQ dry rub doesn’t contain any moisture ingredients, so that it will take less time to season. Although BBQ rub doesn’t tenderize your meat, it will give the meat a crispy and nice crust surface plus an appealing smell.

How To Apply BBQ Rubs Like A Pitmaster?

Knowing how to use BBQ rubs is not less important as it is the basic step to enhance the flavor of the meat.

Here is the instruction for you to apply BBQ rub like a pitmaster.

There are 2 ways of applying BBQ dry rubs:

Apply It Directly to the Meat: This method will give your meat a nice crust texture and a beautiful caramel look.

• Step 1: Stroke the meat with a dry towel. Make sure the meat surface is not moisture as much as possible.
• Step 2: Sprinkle the rub over your meat.
• Step 3: Use your hand to rub the spices over the meat surface. If you want a crisper texture, you can press the rubs onto the meat.
• Step 4: Leave it for about 30 minutes to impart the flavor before putting it on the grill.

Apply the Rubs With Oil: Apply a layer of cooking oil before you sprinkle the rubs over the meat. This method will not make your meat crusty, but it will be more flavorful.

Watch this video to see a nice presentation about this second method:

FAQs

My Top Pick

Since I love the smoky flavor, I definitely will have a Wayward Gourmet Apple Smoked BBQ Rubs in my kitchen. This rub will make my barbecue parties burst in an exotic and smoky flavor of savory applewood.

And how about you? Have you already made the decision? I hope you can find out the best BBQ rubs for your BBQ party after reading my review.

And last but not least, if you have any questions or useful tips for using BBQ rubs, feel free to share it with me and other people. I would love to hear from you.