As the days grow warmer and the scent of charcoal fills the air, BBQ season makes its grand return—bringing with it the joy of outdoor cooking, shared meals, and bold, smoky flavors that define summer gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting to explore flame-kissed cooking, one thing is certain: the right seasoning makes all the difference. That’s where this BBQ Seasoning Blend comes in.
This homemade spice mix is the secret weapon behind deeply flavorful ribs, chicken, grilled veggies, and even tofu. Crafted with pantry staples like paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, onion powder, and salt—with an optional kick of cayenne—it strikes that perfect balance of smoky, savory, and just the right amount of heat. The result? A bold, versatile blend that enhances your BBQ favorites without overpowering them.
Making your own seasoning mix not only gives you full control over the ingredients, but it also skips the additives, anti-caking agents, and excess sodium often found in store-bought blends. Plus, it’s cost-effective, easy to customize, and stores beautifully in a simple glass jar for quick use throughout the grilling season and beyond.
Beyond flavor, many of the spices in this blend offer added wellness perks: garlic supports heart health and immunity, paprika delivers antioxidants and boosts eye health, and chili powder may even help support metabolism. So, while you’re adding layers of flavor, you’re also sneaking in a few health benefits.
Whether you’re preparing for a backyard cookout, spicing up weeknight dinners, or looking for a homemade gift idea for your favorite grill lover, this BBQ Seasoning Blend is a must-have. Let’s dive into how to mix it, store it, and use it to take your grilling game to the next level.
Recipe
2 Tbsp paprika (smoked if desired)
2 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
How to Prepare
Add ingredients to a glass mason jar fitted with a lid – shake to combine and store in a cool, dry place.
