One thing I always do as spring picnics heat up into summer cookouts is mix up a batch of rib rub. Despite what the dozens of highly branded and cleverly pitched spice blends lead you to believe, rib rubs can be super simple. My go-to rib seasoning mix has just five ingredients — all of which are already in my pantry and probably in yours as well. Here, a savory-sweet combination of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper is all you need to coax the very best flavor from the pork ribs you’re making. Whether you’re a newbie at the grill (we’ve got a ton of tips to help you get started) or are a seasoned pro, this is the rib rub that will make every rack a winner.
Rib Rub
One thing I always do as spring picnics heat up into summer cookouts is mix up a batch of rib rub. Despite what the dozens of highly branded and cleverly pitched spice blends lead you to believe, rib rubs can be super simple. My go-to rib seasoning mix has just five ingredients — all of which are already in my pantry and probably in yours as well. Here, a savory-sweet combination of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper is all you need to coax the very best flavor from the pork ribs you’re making. Whether you’re a newbie at the grill (we’ve got a ton of tips to help you get started) or are a seasoned pro, this is the rib rub that will make every rack a winner.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons smoked or regular paprika
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Place 1/4 cup packed light or dark brown sugar, 2 tablespoons smoked or regular paprika, 2 tablespoons kosher salt, 1 tablespoon garlic powder, and 1 1/2 teaspoons black pepper in a small bowl and whisk to combine. This makes enough for 2 racks of pork ribs.
Notes
Recipe Notes
General tips: This recipe includes salt. If you’re following a recipe that calls for seasoning ribs separately with salt before adding the rub, you can leave the salt out and season to your liking.
Storage: Store rib rub in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 month.
