Smoked Turkey Rub

Whether you are smoking, roasting, or frying your Thanksgiving turkey, this turkey rub will add loads of flavor to your bird. We've combined salt, sugar, thyme, rosemary, sage, pepper, and garlic powder for the perfect herb rub for a smoked turkey. The low-and-slow method of smoking really enhances these flavors for a delicious Thanksgiving meal.

According to Southern Living Test Kitchen pros, dry-brining draws the natural moisture of the bird to the surface for the crispiest skin and most flavorful meat. After properly thawing your turkey you'll want to dry it off with a paper towel before applying the herb rub to the inside and outside of the bird. Then, you will need to chill the turkey for 10 to 24 hours, so make sure you've allowed enough prep time.

Learn how to make this great turkey rub and how to make sure it transforms your Thanksgiving turkey into the best you've ever made.

What Is a Smoked Turkey Rub?

A smoked turkey rub is a blend of spices and seasonings rubbed over the turkey before smoking to enhance the flavor of the meat, and create a crust or bark on the exterior of the bird. While recipes may vary, a rub often includes brown sugar, salt, pepper, and assorted dried herbs and spices.

Ingredients for This Dry Rub

Each ingredient in this dry rub plays a unique role, whether in flavoring the bird, or helping to create a crisp, caramelized crust:

• Kosher salt: Enhances the flavor and helps tenderize the meat by drawing out moisture and forming a brine that's reabsorbed into the meat, adding juiciness and tenderness.
• Dark brown sugar: Caramelizes and helps to create a crust on the meat, while balancing the salt and spices.
• Herbs: Aromatics that add earthy, floral notes to the turkey.
• Spices: Add complexity and balanced flavor to the meat. Spices like paprika and chili powder can also contribute color to the final crust.

How To Make Smoked Turkey Rub

To make this rub, all you'll need to do is stir to combine the ingredients together in a small bowl. Set aside until ready to use.

Can I Make a Smoked Turkey Rub Ahead?

This rub can be made and stored in an airtight container for up to three months. Better yet, double or triple the quantity, and keep the rub on hand for any time you need it.

Ways To Use Smoked Turkey Rub

Smoked turkey rub can be used for more than just smoked turkey. Apply the rub before roasting, grilling, or frying turkey, cooking a turkey breast, turkey burgers, wings, drumsticks, or to season shredded turkey for turkey tacos.

Create Your Own Signature Dry Rub

Want to create your own custom dry rub? Check out our simple, four-step method to create your own signature blend.

Editorial contributions by Katie Rosenhouse.