When it comes to smoking a turkey, the right rub can make all the difference. A good turkey rub should balance sweet and savory flavors with a depth of spice that complements the rich flavor of the smoked bird. In this article, we’ll explore 18 different savory turkey rub recipes that are sure to elevate your smoking game. From classic combinations like brown sugar and paprika to bold flavors like cayenne pepper and coriander, these rubs offer something for every taste. Whether you’re a seasoned smoker or just looking to try something new, these recipes will provide the perfect starting point for your next smoked turkey adventure.
Classic Smoked Turkey Rub with Brown Sugar and Paprika
Elevate your turkey game with this classic smoked rub that combines the richness of brown sugar, the smokiness of paprika, and a hint of spice. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Apply the rub evenly to your turkey, making sure to coat all surfaces.
3. Let the turkey sit for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to absorb before cooking.
Cooking Time:
– Recommended cooking time: 4-6 hours at 225°F (110°C) or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)
Spicy Cajun Turkey Rub for Smoked Delight
This rub combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with a kick of heat, perfect for smoking turkey to perfection. The result is a deliciously spicy and savory crust that will elevate your smoked turkey game.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 1/2 tablespoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup dried oregano
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Stir in brown sugar and dried oregano until well combined.
3. Apply the rub evenly to your turkey, making sure to cover all surfaces.
4. Let the turkey sit for 30 minutes before smoking at 225°F (110°C) for 4-5 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Herb-Infused Smoked Turkey Rub with Rosemary and Thyme
Elevate your turkey game with this aromatic rub, perfect for a smoky twist on the classic holiday bird. This blend of earthy rosemary and savory thyme adds depth to every bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, kosher salt, smoked paprika, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, and black pepper.
2. Mix until well combined, with a slightly rough texture.
3. Rub the mixture all over your turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Let the rub sit for at least 30 minutes before smoking or roasting the turkey.
5. Cooking time will vary depending on the size of your turkey and desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours at 225°F (110°C) for a 12-pound (5.4 kg) turkey.
Sweet and Smoky Maple Turkey Rub
Elevate your turkey game with this sweet and smoky rub that combines the richness of maple syrup with the depth of smoked paprika. Perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, maple syrup, smoked paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
2. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to coat it evenly.
3. Place the turkey in a roasting pan or on a baking sheet lined with foil.
4. Roast the turkey at 325°F (165°C) for about 2-1/2 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: About 2-1/2 hours
Garlic Lovers Smoked Turkey Rub
Elevate your turkey game with this aromatic rub that combines the pungency of garlic with the richness of smoked paprika. Perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon kosher salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Rub the mixture all over a whole turkey or turkey breast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the turkey in the smoker and cook for 6-8 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Let the turkey rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Citrus Zest Turkey Rub for a Bright Smoky Flavor
Elevate your turkey game with this zesty and aromatic rub that combines the brightness of citrus with the warmth of smokiness. Perfect for your next holiday feast or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated orange zest
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, brown sugar, orange zest, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix until well combined and fragrant.
3. Rub the mixture all over your turkey, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Let the turkey sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
Cooking Time:
This rub is designed for a 12-14 pound turkey. Cooking time will vary depending on the size of your bird and desired level of doneness. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Texas-Style Smoked Turkey Rub with Bold Spices
Elevate your smoked turkey game with this bold and aromatic rub, featuring a blend of Texas-inspired spices and herbs. This recipe makes enough for 2-3 turkeys, so feel free to adjust as needed.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon coriander
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, kosher salt, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, coriander, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Mix until well combined.
3. If using cilantro, stir in chopped leaves at this stage.
4. Rub the mixture all over your turkey, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Let the turkey sit for 30 minutes before smoking.
Cooking Time: Smoked turkey cooking time will depend on the size and type of smoker used. Typically, a 12-pound turkey will take around 8-10 hours to cook.
Applewood Smoked Turkey Rub with Cinnamon and Nutmeg
Elevate your turkey game with this aromatic rub that combines the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg with the rich flavor of applewood smoke. Perfect for the holiday season, this recipe adds a new dimension to your roasted turkey.
Ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons applewood-smoked sea salt (or regular sea salt)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Add the applewood-smoked sea salt and stir until uniform.
4. Rub the mixture all over your turkey, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Roast your turkey according to your preferred method (thawed or frozen).
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-1/2 hours for a 12-pound (5.4 kg) turkey.
Peppercorn Crusted Smoked Turkey Rub
Elevate your turkey game with this aromatic rub featuring the bold flavors of peppercorns and smoky undertones. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals, this recipe yields a succulent and savory turkey.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 2 tablespoons black peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, kosher salt, ground black peppercorns, brown sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place turkey in the smoker, breast side up.
5. Smoke for 4-6 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours
Mustard-Based Smoked Turkey Rub with Tangy Kick
Elevate your turkey game with this bold and tangy rub, featuring the perfect balance of mustard’s pungency and smoky depth. Perfect for a special occasion or a regular Sunday roast, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup whole brown mustard
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine mustard, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Mix until well combined, breaking up any lumps with the back of a spoon.
3. Rub the mixture all over your turkey (about 1/4 cup per pound), making sure to coat evenly.
4. Let the turkey sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate.
Cooking Time:
– Turkey size: 2-4 pounds, cook time: 2-3 hours
– Turkey size: 4-6 pounds, cook time: 3-4 hours
Coffee-Rubbed Smoked Turkey for Deep Flavor
Elevate your turkey game with this unique coffee-rubbed smoked turkey recipe, where the bold flavors of coffee and spices meld together to create an unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup ground coffee beans
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together coffee beans, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place turkey in the smoker, breast side up.
5. Smoke for 6-8 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Let turkey rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Smoked Turkey Rub with Honey and Chili Flakes
Add a sweet and spicy twist to your smoked turkey with this flavorful rub recipe. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals, this blend of honey, chili flakes, and spices will elevate the flavor of your turkey.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 2 tablespoons chili flakes
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, kosher salt, chili flakes, and smoked paprika.
2. Add honey, garlic powder, and onion powder to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: Apply the rub to your turkey about 30 minutes before smoking or roasting. Cook according to your preferred method: smoked turkey typically takes 4-6 hours, while roasted turkey takes around 2-3 hours.
Mediterranean-Inspired Smoked Turkey Rub with Oregano
Mediterranean-Inspired Smoked Turkey Rub with Oregano
Elevate your turkey game with this aromatic rub that combines the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with the rich, smoky notes of smoked paprika.
Ingredients:
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground oregano
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp cumin
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, oregano, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cumin.
2. Mix well until the spices are evenly blended.
3. Rub the mixture all over your turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Let the turkey sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to allow the rub to penetrate the meat.
Cooking Time:
– Smoked paprika adds a deep, smoky flavor to the turkey without overpowering its natural taste.
– Cooking time will depend on the size and type of turkey you’re using. Typically, it’s around 4-6 hours at 325°F (165°C) for a whole turkey.
Smoked Turkey Rub with Orange Peel and Coriander
Smoked Turkey Rub with Orange Peel and Coriander: Elevate your turkey game with this aromatic blend of smoky spices, citrusy orange peel, and warm coriander. This rub is perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon coriander powder
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 2 teaspoons orange zest (from about 1 orange)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, brown sugar, coriander powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Stir in the orange zest and garlic powder until well combined.
3. Use immediately or store the rub in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time:
– Apply the rub to your turkey (about 1-2 tablespoons per pound) and cook according to your desired method (roasting, grilling, smoking).
Smoky Chipotle Turkey Rub with a Hint of Cocoa
Elevate your turkey game with this unique rub that combines the smokiness of chipotle peppers with the depth of cocoa. Perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal, this rub adds a rich and complex flavor profile to your bird.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon ground chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, chipotle peppers, brown sugar, cocoa powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over your turkey, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place turkey in a roasting pan and roast for about 4-5 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Let turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
All-Purpose Smoked Turkey Rub for Any Occasion
Elevate your turkey game with this versatile rub that’s perfect for any celebration. Whether you’re smoking, grilling, or roasting, this blend of spices and herbs adds depth and complexity to your bird.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons kosher salt
– 2 tablespoons black pepper
– 2 tablespoons garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon coriander
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and coriander.
2. Mix until well combined and fragrant.
3. Rub the mixture all over your turkey, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Let the rub sit for 30 minutes before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate.
Cooking Time:
– Smoked: 4-5 hours at 225°F (110°C)
– Grilled: 2-3 hours at medium-high heat
– Roasted: 1-2 hours at 375°F (190°C)
Smoked Turkey Rub with Lemon Pepper and Garlic
This flavorful rub combines the brightness of lemon pepper, the pungency of garlic, and a hint of smokiness to create a truly unforgettable smoked turkey experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons paprika
– 1 tablespoon lemon pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together paprika, lemon pepper, garlic, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Apply the rub evenly to the surface of your turkey, making sure to cover all areas thoroughly.
3. Let the turkey sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before smoking to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Smoke the turkey according to your preferred method (e.g., using wood chips or chunks) until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Cooking time will depend on the size and type of turkey, as well as the level of smokiness desired.
Cooking Time: Varies depending on turkey size and smoking method
BBQ-Inspired Smoked Turkey Rub with Smoked Paprika
Elevate your turkey game with this bold and aromatic rub, featuring the rich flavor of smoked paprika. Perfect for a backyard barbecue or holiday feast.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, kosher salt, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin.
2. Mix well until the spices are evenly blended.
3. Rub the mixture all over your turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Let the turkey sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to allow the rub to penetrate the meat.
5. Cook your turkey using your preferred method (grilling, roasting, or smoking).
Cooking Time:
– Grill: 2-3 hours
– Roast: 2-3 hours
– Smoke: 4-6 hours
Summary
Get ready to elevate your smoking game with these 18 savory turkey rub recipes! From classic combinations like brown sugar and paprika to bold flavors like cayenne and coriander, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re looking for a sweet and smoky flavor or a tangy kick, these rubs are sure to please. Plus, they’re easy to make and apply, so you can focus on perfecting your smoking technique. Try one of these recipes out and take your turkey to the next level!
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