Get ready to elevate your smoking game with these 18 bold turkey rub recipes! Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just starting out on your barbecue journey, these mouth-watering combinations will inspire you to try new flavors and techniques. From classic comfort food-inspired blends to international twists, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll explore the art of crafting the perfect turkey rub, featuring an array of unique flavor profiles that will make your taste buds do the happy dance. Whether you’re looking for a sweet and savory glaze or a spicy kick, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your smoking repertoire.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into the wonderful world of turkey rubs and discover some bold, delicious flavors that will make your next barbecue gathering unforgettable!
Smoky Maple Bourbon Turkey Rub
Elevate your turkey game with this sweet and savory rub that combines the richness of bourbon with the smokiness of maple syrup. Perfect for a special occasion or holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon bourbon whiskey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 teaspoons kosher salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, maple syrup, smoked paprika, bourbon whiskey, olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
2. Rub the mixture all over your turkey, making sure to coat it evenly.
3. Let the turkey sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the rub to absorb before roasting.
Cooking Time:
– Roast turkey at 325°F (165°C) for about 4-5 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Spicy Cajun Smoked Turkey Rub
Add a bold kick to your turkey with this spicy Cajun-inspired rub, perfect for the smoker or grill.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 2 tablespoons garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon coriander powder
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker or grill to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, coriander powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place turkey in smoker or grill, close lid, and cook for 8-10 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Let rest for 15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Herb-Crusted Smoked Turkey Rub
This herb-crusted smoked turkey rub adds a savory and aromatic flavor to your turkey, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. With a blend of herbs and spices, this recipe is easy to make and requires minimal preparation.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons paprika
– 1 tablespoon dried thyme
– 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, paprika, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the turkey, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the turkey in the smoker, breast side up, and close the lid.
5. Smoke the turkey for 6-8 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Garlic and Pepper Smoked Turkey Rub
Elevate your turkey game with this aromatic blend of garlic, pepper, and spices. Perfect for your next holiday gathering or backyard BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp kosher salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp granulated garlic
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, granulated garlic, and onion powder.
3. Add the cayenne pepper if desired for an extra kick.
4. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the turkey in the smoker, breast side up.
6. Smoke for 8-10 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Honey Mustard Smoked Turkey Rub
Elevate your smoked turkey game with this sweet and tangy rub, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Rub the mixture all over your turkey, making sure to cover all surfaces evenly.
3. Place the turkey in the smoker at 225°F (110°C) for about 4-5 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. Baste the turkey with the pan juices every hour to keep it moist and add flavor.
Cooking Time:
– Smoked turkey: 4-5 hours
Citrus and Herb Smoked Turkey Rub
Elevate your smoked turkey game with this bright and flavorful rub, perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. This citrusy blend combines the warmth of herbs with the tanginess of citrus for a truly memorable taste experience.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons grated orange zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, kosher salt, smoked paprika, and citrus zest.
2. Mix in garlic, orange juice, and herbs until well combined.
3. Rub the mixture all over your turkey, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Smoke according to your preferred method (e.g., 225°F for 4-5 hours).
5. Let the turkey rest before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Coffee-Rubbed Smoked Turkey
Elevate your holiday table with this rich and savory coffee-rubbed smoked turkey recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup freshly brewed strong coffee
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 teaspoons kosher salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup wood chips (your choice of hardwood or fruitwood)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together coffee, brown sugar, smoked paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic until well combined.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the turkey in the smoker, breast side up.
5. Close the lid and smoke for 8-10 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Once cooked, let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Brown Sugar and Smoked Paprika Turkey Rub
Elevate your turkey game with this aromatic rub that combines the warmth of brown sugar and the depth of smoked paprika. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Rub the mixture all over your turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
3. Let the turkey sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before roasting or grilling.
Cooking Time:
– Roasted turkey: 4-4 1/2 hours at 325°F (165°C)
– Grilled turkey: 3-3 1/2 hours, turning occasionally
Tips: Let the rub sit on the turkey for at least an hour before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate. You can also adjust the amount of smoked paprika to your taste.
Savory Rosemary and Thyme Turkey Rub for Smoking
Elevate your turkey game with this aromatic rub that combines the earthy flavors of rosemary and thyme. Perfect for smoking, this blend will add depth and complexity to your bird.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine salt, brown sugar, rosemary, thyme, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
2. Mix until well combined, breaking up any clumps with your fingers or the back of a spoon.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the turkey in a smoker set at 225°F (110°C) for 8-10 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Smoked Turkey Rub with Citrus Zest
Elevate your turkey game with this zesty and aromatic rub, perfect for your next outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons citrus zest (orange, lemon, or lime)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, citrus zest, and garlic until well combined.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and black pepper to the bowl and stir until a thick paste forms.
3. Rub the mixture all over your turkey, making sure to cover all surfaces evenly.
4. Let the turkey sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before smoking or roasting.
Cooking Time:
– Smoked Turkey: 2-3 hours
– Roasted Turkey: 1-2 hours
Sweet and Spicy BBQ Smoked Turkey Rub
Elevate your turkey game with this sweet and spicy BBQ rub that combines the richness of brown sugar, the heat of chili flakes, and the smokiness of paprika.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Mix well until the spices are evenly blended.
3. Apply the rub generously all over the turkey, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Let the turkey sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
5. Smoke or grill the turkey according to your preferred method and cooking time.
Cooking Time: About 2-3 hours for a whole turkey, or adjust according to size and desired doneness.
Texas-Style Smoked Turkey Rub
Get ready to bring some Lone Star State flavor to your smoked turkey with this classic Texas-style rub recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup paprika
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 2 tablespoons ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Apply the rub evenly to the turkey, making sure to cover all surfaces.
4. Place the turkey in the smoker and cook for 8-10 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Notes:
– You can adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your desired level of heat.
– For a more intense flavor, let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before serving.
Applewood Smoked Turkey Rub with Sage
Elevate your turkey game with this aromatic rub that combines the rich flavors of applewood smoked spice and earthy sage. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals, this rub adds a depth of flavor to your turkey that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup applewood smoked spice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons kosher salt
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine applewood smoked spice, brown sugar, kosher salt, sage leaves, black pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Mix until well combined and fragrant.
3. Rub the mixture all over your turkey, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Let sit for 30 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate before cooking.
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Peppercorn and Juniper Smoked Turkey Rub
Elevate your turkey game with this aromatic rub, featuring the bold flavors of peppercorns and juniper berries. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons black peppercorns
– 1 tablespoon juniper berries
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon kosher salt
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine peppercorns and juniper berries.
3. Add the brown sugar, kosher salt, smoked paprika, and garlic powder to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
4. Rub the mixture all over a whole turkey (about 12-14 pounds), making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Smoke at 225°F (110°C) for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Chipotle-Lime Smoked Turkey Rub
Elevate your smoked turkey game with this bold and tangy rub, featuring the perfect balance of chipotle heat and zesty lime.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon ground chipotle peppers
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, chipotle peppers, and garlic until well combined.
3. Stir in lime juice and olive oil until the mixture forms a smooth paste.
4. Rub the paste all over the turkey, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Place the turkey in the smoker and cook for 8-10 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Five-Spice Smoked Turkey Rub
This aromatic rub combines the warm spices of China with the rich flavor of smoked turkey. The result is a mouthwatering blend that’s perfect for your next BBQ or holiday feast.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon five-spice powder
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon coriander powder
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, five-spice powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, coriander powder, and garlic powder.
2. Rub the mixture all over your turkey, making sure to cover every surface evenly.
3. Let the turkey sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before smoking or cooking.
Cooking Time:
– Smoking time: 4-6 hours
– Oven-roasting time: 1 hour and 15 minutes (at 375°F)
Orange and Ginger Smoked Turkey Rub
Elevate your turkey game with this sweet and savory rub that combines the brightness of orange zest with the warmth of ginger.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon orange zest (from about 2 oranges)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, grated ginger, and orange zest until well combined.
2. Add the salt and black pepper to the mixture and stir to combine.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to cover it evenly.
4. Let the turkey sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before smoking or cooking.
Cooking Time:
– Smoked turkey: 4-6 hours
– Roasted turkey: 2-3 hours
Smoked Turkey Rub with Hickory and Molasses
Smoked Turkey Rub with Hickory and Molasses Recipe
Elevate your turkey game with this sweet and smoky rub featuring hickory and molasses. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any special occasion, this recipe yields a richly flavored bird that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons ground cumin
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon hickory smoke powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons molasses
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, hickory smoke powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add molasses and apple cider vinegar to the dry mixture; stir until well combined.
4. Rub the mixture all over your turkey, making sure to cover every surface evenly.
5. Place turkey in a roasting pan or smoker set at 225°F (110°C). Smoke for 4-6 hours or roast for 2-3 hours.
Cooking Time: 2-6 hours
Summary
Get ready to level up your smoked turkey game with these 18 bold and delicious turkey rub recipes! From sweet and spicy to smoky and savory, each recipe is packed with unique flavor combinations that will elevate your next BBQ or dinner party. Try Smoky Maple Bourbon Turkey Rub, Spicy Cajun Smoked Turkey Rub, or Garlic and Pepper Smoked Turkey Rub for a taste adventure like no other. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just starting to experiment with smoked meats, these recipes are sure to inspire you to try something new and exciting.