Best Dry Rubs For Ribs (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for a way to take your rib game to the next level, the answer might be in your seasoning. A good dry rub can make all the difference when it comes to flavor and texture. But with so many options out there, how do you know where to start?
First, consider the ingredients. Are you looking for something spicy? Smoky? Sweet? Make sure the flavors in the rub complement the flavors of the meat.
Next, think about the texture. Do you prefer a fine grind or something with larger chunks? Consider the texture of the meat as well – a chunky rub might not adhere as well to a smoother cut of ribs.
Finally, take a look at the salt content. Some rubs are heavy on the salt, which can dry out the meat if used in excess.
But what if you’re a novice when it comes to dry rubs? Don’t worry, there are options out there for you too. Try a sampler pack of different rubs to get a sense of what you like. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own rub from scratch. Online tutorials and recipes abound – all you need is a few spices, some measuring spoons, and a little bit of patience.
And if you’re still not convinced, ask yourself this – when was the last time you had truly great ribs? A standout dry rub might be just the thing to take your ribs from good to great.
10 Best Dry Rubs For Ribs
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The product is ideal for adding flavor to chicken, steak, ribs, vegetables, seafood, and more with all-purpose, steak, and poultry seasonings.
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This product is ideal for seasoning and adding flavor to various types of meat, including ribs, chicken, pork, steaks, and brisket.
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The product is ideal for adding sweet and savory flavor to various meats like brisket, steak, chicken, ribs, and pork.
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It is ideal for enhancing the flavor of meat, such as brisket, steak, ribs, and burgers, with a savory blend.
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This product is ideal for seasoning meats during grilling, cooking, or smoking and creating a flavorful and delicious meal.
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Ideal for enhancing the flavor of brisket, steak, ribs, and burgers with a savory blend of barbecue rub seasoning.
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It is ideal for enhancing the flavor of grilled, cooked, or smoked meats with a Western-style seasoning set.
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The product bundle is ideal for seasoning meat with a variety of flavorful options.
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Ideal for seasoning pork, chicken, pulled pork, and ribs with clean, preservative-free ingredients and no added MSG.
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Ideal for seasoning various meats and enhancing their flavor during BBQ, including wings, ribs, brisket, and more.
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1. Kansas City Spice Variety Pack – All-In-One Seasoning.
Introducing the Jack Stack Barbecue Seasonings, a premium blend of Kansas City spices that will elevate your cooking game. With three distinct flavors to choose from, you can season your food to perfection every time. The All-Purpose Seasoning is perfect for milder dishes like seafood and vegetables, while the Steak Dry Rub is perfect for briskets and ribs. The Meat & Poultry Spice is the perfect addition to chicken, pork, and more.
Made with the finest ingredients and mixed in small batches for authentic down-home flavor, Jack Stack Seasonings are the perfect addition to any dish. The BBQ All-Purpose Dry Rub Seasoning adds a savory kick to everything you make. From wings, ribs, pork, and steak to salmon, shrimp, eggs, chicken, fish, brisket, beef, meatballs, seafood, burgers, salads, vegetables, and more, Jack Stack Seasonings are versatile and can be used in all your favorite recipes.
Not only do these seasonings taste amazing, but they are also perfect for your diet. All Jack Stack BBQ sauces and spices are gluten-free, soy-free, nut-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, and low in sugar. You can try their original, spicy, and hot barbecue sauces, as well as their all-purpose, meat & poultry, and steak dry rubs.
At Fiorella's Jack Stack Barbecue, they maintain the same history of delectable BBQ sauces and seasonings that have made Jack Stack a respected name in barbecue for over 60 years. The explosive hickory-smoked flavors of Jack Stack are alive in their seasonings, ensuring that every dish you make is bursting with flavor.
2. Dirty Bird Barbecue: Irresistible Meat Rub
Elevate your cooking game with the award-winning Dirty Bird BBQ rub, designed to enhance the flavors of your poultry, beef, and other meats. Impress even the toughest BBQ critics with this unique blend of savory spices and kicked-up heat, delivering a mouthwatering explosion of fiery goodness with a subtle warmth that will leave your taste buds craving more.
Easy to use, the Dirty Bird BBQ rub allows for infinite customization. Simply sprinkle or rub it onto your meat of choice for rich, succulent dishes that burst with flavor and aroma. The versatility of this spice blend makes it an excellent addition to casseroles, potatoes, baked beans, and other dishes, making you the go-to host for family barbecues and tailgates.
Developed by World Champions and tested in World Championships, the quality of Dirty Bird BBQ rub is guaranteed by the experts at Kosmos Q. You can rest assured that you're getting a premium product that will take your cooking to the next level. If it's not good enough for Kosmos Q, it's not good enough for you.
3. Honey Bee Bbq Rub – Superior Meat Seasoning
Transform your barbeque creations into a savory delight with the award-winning Honey Killer Bee BBQ Rub from Kosmos Q. This unique blend of spices strikes the perfect balance between sweet honey and savory seasonings, making it a must-have for any BBQ enthusiast.
Crafted to perfection, this rub delivers a mouthwatering explosion of flavor that will have your taste buds begging for more. Whether you’re cooking up poultry, beef, or any other meat, this rub will take your dishes to the next level, impressing even the toughest of BBQ critics.
One of the best things about this rub is its ease of use. Simply sprinkle or rub it into your meat of choice for a perfectly seasoned dish every time. The versatile flavor profile of the Honey Killer Bee BBQ Rub means it’s not just limited to meat dishes. You can sprinkle it on casseroles, potatoes, baked beans, and more to enhance their flavor and add a touch of sweetness.
This rub has been tested in World Championships by World Champions, so you can rest assured that quality is guaranteed. At Kosmos Q, only the best ingredients are used to craft this rub, ensuring that every sprinkle is packed with flavor and goodness.
4. Cow Cover Bbq Rub: Savory Meat Seasoning.
The Cow Cover BBQ rub is a highly acclaimed product that has won numerous awards for its exceptional quality. This product is designed to elevate your cooking game and transform your beef or poultry dishes into mouthwatering delicacies that will impress even the most discerning BBQ critics.
Crafted using a special blend of spices, the Cow Cover BBQ rub offers a perfect balance of savory and smoky-heat flavors that deliver a rich explosion of red goodness. The result is a subtle, yet thrilling, heat that enhances your BBQ creations, making them even more delicious and succulent.
Using the Cow Cover BBQ rub is incredibly easy, allowing you to create a customizable spice blend that delivers rich and aromatic flavors to your dishes. This versatile rub can be used on almost anything, from casseroles and potatoes to baked beans and more, making it an essential ingredient in your kitchen.
The quality of this rub is unparalleled, having been tested in World Championships by World Champions. This means that you can be confident in the quality of the product and rest assured that it will meet your expectations. At Kosmos Q, we believe that if it's not good enough for us, then it's not good enough for you.
5. Southern Bbq Bros Seasoning Set: Grilling Bliss!
This premium BBQ rub set has garnered a 5-star rating from over 1,600 customers over the past five years, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. The set includes three jumbo-sized jars of handcrafted rubs, each with a unique flavor profile: Memphis (10oz), New Orleans (8oz), and Carolina's (11oz).
These BBQ rubs are pitmaster-approved and feature authentic regional award-winning recipes. They contain no MSG and are gluten-free, making them a healthy option for those with dietary restrictions.
The set comes with the option for gift wrapping and fast shipping, including two-day shipping with Amazon Prime or rush delivery options during checkout. This makes it a perfect choice for last-minute gifts and special occasions like Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, and summer celebrations. Please note that this is not a limited edition set, but a regular Southern-style set.
The manufacturer stands behind their product and offers a 110% risk-free money-back guarantee. If for any reason you are not satisfied with your purchase, they will provide a full refund with no questions asked.
6. Kosmos Q Savory Beef Rub
Introducing the award-winning Cow Cover BBQ rub, a game changer that will elevate your cooking to the next level. Whether you're grilling beef or poultry, this special blend of spices will ensure your meat is lip-smacking and delicious, impressing even the toughest of BBQ critics.
Crafted with a perfect balance of savory and smoky-heat, Cow Cover BBQ rub delivers a mouthwatering explosion of rich red goodness, enhancing your BBQ creations with a subtle yet thrilling heat. This unique blend is easy to use, enabling you to customize your spice blend for rich smelling and deliciously succulent dishes.
The versatility of Cow Cover BBQ rub is unmatched, as it can be sprinkled on almost anything. From casseroles and potatoes to baked beans, this rub adds flavor to any dish. Once you try it, you'll soon find yourself being asked to host all the family barbecues and tailgates.
Rest assured that quality is guaranteed as Cow Cover BBQ rub has been tested in World Championships by World Champions. At Kosmos Q, we believe in providing our customers with only the best. If it's not good enough for us, it's not good enough for you.
Experience the thrill of BBQ with Cow Cover BBQ rub and take your cooking to the next level!
7. Western Bbq Spice Set – Guaranteed Delicious Results!
This BBQ rub set has earned a 5-star rating from over 740 satisfied customers for over 5 years. It makes for an excellent gift set for any occasion. The set includes three jumbo-sized jars of premium, handcrafted BBQ rubs: California (11 oz), Texas (13 oz), and Kansas City (10 oz).
If you're looking to gift this set, there are gift wrapping options available, and fast shipping is guaranteed. Standard two-day shipping is available with Amazon Prime, and rush delivery options can be selected during checkout. Additionally, the set is often on sale during Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, and summer, but note that this is the regular Western Style Set, not a limited edition.
These BBQ rubs are pitmaster-approved and feature authentic, award-winning regional recipes. The rubs contain no MSG and are gluten-free, making them a healthy choice for your BBQ.
The manufacturer stands behind their product with a customer satisfaction guarantee. If for any reason you are not satisfied with your purchase, they offer a full refund with no questions asked. This is a 110% risk-free money-back guarantee, so you can purchase with confidence.
8. Corkys Bbq Seasoning Bundle: 4 Flavors + Recipe
The Corky's BBQ Dry Rub Seasoning Bundle is a must-have for every BBQ enthusiast. This bundle includes four different flavors: Original, Honey, Sweet and Smokey, and Bourbon & ThisNThat Recipe Card, totaling to 41.94oz of pure BBQ goodness.
The Original flavor is perfect for those who love the traditional taste of BBQ. The Honey flavor adds a touch of sweetness to your meat, while the Sweet and Smokey flavor provides a rich, smoky taste that is sure to impress your guests. The Bourbon & ThisNThat Recipe Card flavor is perfect for those who want to try something unique and delicious.
This bundle is not only versatile but also made in the USA. It is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions. Corky's BBQ, located in Memphis, is a well-known culinary capital and BBQ haven. It has been voted the #1 BBQ joint in Memphis 22 times, which is a testament to the quality and flavor of their products.
Corky's dry rub seasoning is perfect for seasoning ribs, chicken, tenderloins, sausage, and fish. It is easy to use and adds a delicious flavor to your meat. Whether you are a seasoned grill master or a beginner, this bundle is perfect for you.
9. Sweet & Natural Bbq Rub For Perfect Meat
This seasoning blend is the perfect addition to any kitchen. Its versatile flavor pairs well with a variety of meats and vegetables, making it a go-to for any meal. Designed to enhance the natural flavors of your food, this blend has a mild heat level of 2/5, offering just the right amount of kick without overpowering your dish.
Crafted with clean ingredients and no preservatives, this seasoning blend is a healthier alternative to other spice blends on the market. It contains no MSG and no fat, making it a guilt-free addition to any meal.
Whether you're grilling up some poultry, pork, or seafood, or roasting up some fresh vegetables, this blend is sure to take your dish to the next level. With its balanced flavor and all-natural ingredients, it's the perfect way to add some depth and complexity to your cooking without compromising on quality or taste.
So why wait? Enhance your meals today with this delicious and versatile seasoning blend. Your taste buds (and your health) will thank you!
10. Memphis Bbq Rub – All-Purpose Dry Seasoning
Lawry's Memphis Style Barbecue Rub is the perfect seasoning for those who crave authentic, Southern-style barbeque. This premium bulk seasoning is blended using high-quality ingredients, including a combination of chile pepper, paprika, and mustard, to create a mild heat with a hint of spice. With its 25-ounce bottle, chefs and food service professionals can easily stock up on this rub for ribs and other meats, saving both time and money.
Designed with chefs in mind, Lawry's Memphis Style Barbecue Rub is an excellent choice for those who want to deliver signature southern flavor and appearance to their dishes. The rub helps to seal in juices and flavor on wings, tenders, ribs, and more, ensuring a succulent and flavorful final product.
One of the most versatile seasonings on the market, Lawry's Memphis Style Barbecue Rub can be used on a wide variety of meats, including turkey, chicken, and beef. Chefs can use this rub to add flavor and enhance the visual appeal of their dishes, making it perfect for both the professional kitchen and the home cook.
Not only does Lawry's Memphis Style Barbecue Rub taste great, but it is also made with feel-good ingredients. This rub is kosher and contains no added MSG, artificial flavors, or colors from artificial sources. As a result, chefs can use this rub mix with confidence, knowing that they are creating flavorful dishes without any harmful ingredients.
Best Dry Rubs For Ribs FAQs
Are there any all-purpose dry rubs that work well on ribs?
Yes, there are several all-purpose dry rubs that work well on ribs. A dry rub is a mixture of herbs and spices that is rubbed onto the meat before cooking to add flavor and texture. Some popular all-purpose dry rubs for ribs include a blend of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. This rub adds a sweet and spicy flavor to the ribs and enhances the natural flavor of the meat. Another popular dry rub for ribs includes a blend of chili powder, cumin, coriander, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This rub adds a smoky and savory flavor to the ribs and pairs well with barbecue sauce. It is important to note that the amount of dry rub used should be adjusted based on personal preference and the size of the meat.
Are there any specific dry rubs that work best for different types of ribs?
Yes, there are specific dry rubs that work best for different types of ribs. For example, Memphis-style ribs typically call for a dry rub that includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, and cumin. Kansas City-style ribs, on the other hand, often use a dry rub that includes brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and cumin.
For baby back ribs, a dry rub that includes brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper is a popular choice. For St. Louis-style ribs, a dry rub that includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper is often used.
It's important to note that these are just general guidelines and there is room for experimentation and personal preference. Some people may prefer a spicier rub, while others may prefer a sweeter rub. Ultimately, the best dry rub is one that complements the flavors of the meat and satisfies your taste buds.
Can I make my own dry rub for ribs?
Yes, you can definitely make your own dry rub for ribs at home. In fact, making your own dry rub is a great way to customize the flavor profile of your ribs and add your own personal touch. A basic dry rub typically consists of a mixture of spices such as salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and brown sugar. However, you can experiment with different herbs and spices to create a unique blend that suits your taste preferences.
To make your own dry rub for ribs, simply mix together your desired spices in a bowl and then generously coat the ribs with the mixture. Make sure to massage the dry rub into the meat so that the flavors penetrate deeply. After applying the dry rub, let the ribs sit for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to fully infuse into the meat. Then, grill, bake, or smoke the ribs to perfection and enjoy!
How do I choose the best dry rub for my ribs?
Choosing the best dry rub for your ribs can be a matter of personal preference, but there are a few factors to consider when making your selection. First, consider the flavors you enjoy and what would complement the meat. For example, if you like a sweet and spicy flavor profile, you may want to choose a dry rub that includes brown sugar, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
Next, consider the cooking method you plan to use. If you're smoking your ribs, you may want to choose a dry rub with more herbs and spices, as the smoke will infuse the flavors into the meat. If you're grilling your ribs, you may want to choose a dry rub with less sugar, as the high heat can cause the sugar to burn.
Finally, consider the quality of the ingredients in the dry rub. Look for rubs made with fresh herbs and spices, and avoid those with added fillers or preservatives.
Ultimately, the best way to choose the perfect dry rub is to experiment and find what works best for you and your taste preferences. Try different combinations and adjust the amounts of each ingredient until you find the perfect balance of flavors.
How long should I leave the dry rub on my ribs before cooking?
When it comes to dry rubs on ribs, the general rule of thumb is to let the rub sit on the meat for at least 30 minutes before cooking. However, for best results, it is recommended to let the dry rub marinate on the ribs for a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and creates a more flavorful and tender end result.
It is important to note that if you do decide to let the dry rub sit on the ribs for an extended period of time, be sure to cover the meat with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. Additionally, if using a rub with a high salt content, be careful not to over-season the meat as it can lead to a very salty dish.
Ultimately, the length of time you leave the dry rub on your ribs will depend on personal preference and the flavors you are aiming to achieve. Experiment with different marinating times to find what works best for you and your taste buds.
How much dry rub should I use on my ribs?
The amount of dry rub you use on your ribs depends on your personal preference and the size of the rack of ribs. As a general rule of thumb, you should use about 2-3 tablespoons of dry rub per pound of ribs. This should be enough to coat the entire rack of ribs evenly.
To apply the dry rub, first, make sure your ribs are dry and clean. Then, generously sprinkle the dry rub over the entire rack of ribs and use your hands to massage it into the meat, making sure to get the rub into all the nooks and crannies.
You can also adjust the amount of dry rub based on your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less dry rub. If you like a more intense flavor, use more. Just remember that the dry rub should enhance the natural flavor of the meat, not overpower it.
In summary, start with 2-3 tablespoons of dry rub per pound of ribs and adjust to your taste preference. Happy grilling!
Should I apply the dry rub to my ribs before or after cooking?
It is recommended to apply the dry rub to your ribs before cooking to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat. This will result in a more flavorful and tender rib. Make sure to generously coat the ribs with the dry rub, covering all sides, and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. This will give the salt in the rub enough time to penetrate the meat and tenderize it. If you have time, you can even let the ribs sit in the dry rub overnight in the refrigerator to intensify the flavors. Once the ribs are fully coated, you can either grill, smoke or bake them to your desired doneness. Just be sure to monitor the temperature and cooking time to ensure that the ribs are cooked to your liking.
What are some tips for getting a perfect crust with dry rubs on ribs?
Getting the perfect crust on ribs with dry rubs requires a few key techniques that can take your ribs to the next level. Here are some tips for achieving that coveted crust:
1. Start with a good dry rub: A good dry rub is essential to the flavor and texture of your ribs. Make sure you have a well-balanced blend of spices and herbs that complements the meat.
2. Apply the rub generously: Make sure to apply the dry rub generously to the ribs, making sure to cover every inch of the meat. This will create a flavorful crust.
3. Let the rub sit: Once you've applied the rub, let the ribs sit for at least an hour or overnight in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and create a more intense crust.
4. Use indirect heat: When cooking your ribs, use indirect heat. This means placing the ribs on the grill or smoker away from the heat source. This will allow the ribs to cook slowly and evenly, creating a perfect crust.
5. Don't overcook: Overcooking your ribs can result in a dry, tough crust. Make sure to cook your ribs until they are tender and juicy, but not overdone.
By following these tips, you can achieve a perfect crust on your ribs with dry rubs every time.
What are the most popular ingredients in dry rubs for ribs?
When it comes to dry rubs for ribs, there are a few ingredients that are considered to be the most popular. The first is paprika, which provides a smoky flavor and a vibrant red color to the rub. Another popular ingredient is brown sugar, which adds sweetness and helps to create a caramelized crust on the ribs. Salt and pepper are also essential components of any good dry rub, as they help to enhance the flavor of the meat and balance out the sweetness of the sugar.
Other common ingredients in dry rubs for ribs include garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, and mustard powder. These spices add depth and complexity to the rub, helping to create a well-rounded flavor profile. Some cooks also like to add a bit of heat to their dry rubs with the addition of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Ultimately, the best dry rub for ribs is one that suits your personal taste preferences. Experiment with different combinations of spices and seasonings until you find the perfect blend for your palate.
What are the top dry rubs for ribs?
When it comes to ribs, the right dry rub can make all the difference in the world. Here are some of the top dry rubs that are perfect for ribs:
1. Memphis-style dry rub: This rub is a blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and various other spices. It's a classic rub that will give your ribs a smoky and savory flavor.
2. Kansas City-style dry rub: This rub is a little sweeter than the Memphis-style rub, and it includes brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, and other spices. It's perfect if you like your ribs to have a little sweetness to them.
3. Texas-style dry rub: This rub is all about the heat. It's typically made with chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. If you're a fan of spicy food, this is the perfect rub for you.
4. Caribbean-style dry rub: This rub is a little different than the others, as it includes ingredients like allspice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. It's perfect if you're looking for a unique flavor for your ribs.
Ultimately, the best dry rub for ribs depends on your personal preferences. Whether you like your ribs sweet, spicy, or smoky, there's a dry rub out there that's perfect for you.
