Best Tri Tip Rub For Smoking (2024 Updated)

When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

If you're a barbecue enthusiast, then you know that the right rub can make or break your meat. And when it comes to tri-tip, a good rub can make all the difference. But with so many options out there, how do you find the best tri-tip rub for smoking? Here are five key points to keep in mind when searching for the perfect rub:

1. Flavor Profile: First and foremost, you want a rub that complements the natural flavors of the tri-tip. Look for a rub that has a balance of salty, sweet, and savory notes. Some popular flavors for tri-tip include garlic, paprika, and chili powder.

2. Texture: The texture of the rub is also important. You want a rub that is finely ground and will stick to the meat. Avoid rubs that are too coarse or contain large chunks of spices.

3. Heat Level: Depending on your taste preferences, you may want a rub that is mild or one that packs a punch. Look for rubs that have a heat level that suits your palate.

4. Quality Ingredients: When it comes to BBQ, quality ingredients are key. Look for rubs that use high-quality spices and are free from artificial flavors and preservatives.

5. Versatility: Finally, consider whether the rub can be used for other meats or dishes. A versatile rub can be a great addition to your BBQ arsenal.

By keeping these key points in mind, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect tri-tip rub for smoking. Happy BBQing!

10 Best Tri Tip Rub For Smoking

1. Jakes Famous Steak & Rib Rub For Chicken Beef Pork Tri Tip Seasoning 11 Oz

Jake's Famous Steak & Rib Rub for Chicken Beef Pork Tri Tip Seasoning is the perfect blend of herbs and spices to create the ultimate tender, juicy, and succulent BBQ ribs, tri tip, chicken, and steaks. This 11 oz seasoning is natural, gluten-free, and contains no MSG, making it a healthier choice for seasoning your favorite meats.

This gourmet seasoning is the rave with delis and pitmasters, as it has been awarded championship for being the most flavorful steak rub, brisket rub, hamburger seasoning, and dry rub seasoning. It is an all-around meat seasoning that adds flavor and enhances the taste of your favorite meats.

Jake's Famous Steak & Rib Rub is easy to use, and it cuts marinating time in half. Simply shake it on or rub it in, and then allow it to rest for 45 minutes for peak flavor. The result is a perfectly seasoned meat that is sure to be a hit with family and friends.

If you're looking for a great gift for BBQ masters, Jake's Famous Steak & Rib Rub is the perfect choice. It is a complete seasoning set that includes Jake's Famous Dry Rub, making it a great addition to any BBQ lover's collection.

With Jake's Famous Steak & Rib Rub, you can enjoy better taste and flavor without the use of artificial flavors or preservatives. The natural ingredients make it a healthier option for seasoning your favorite meats. So, whether you're grilling, smoking, or baking, Jake's Famous Steak & Rib Rub is the perfect seasoning for all your meat needs.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a high-quality, all-natural seasoning that adds flavor and enhances the taste of your favorite meats, look no further than Jake's Famous Steak & Rib Rub for Chicken Beef Pork Tri Tip Seasoning. Try it today and experience the difference it makes in your next BBQ.

2. Pappy's Choice Seasonings – Ideal For Bbq, Brisket, Steak, Chicken, Seafood, And More.

Pappy's Choice Seasonings – Original is a legendary seasoning blend that has been the top choice of professionals, restaurant chefs, barbecue joints, and families for over 30 years in California. This seasoning blend is perfect for BBQ and smoked brisket, steak, beef, chicken, fajita, hogs, rib, seafood, bagel, popcorn, jerk, pizza and more.

Pappy's Choice Seasonings – Original is made with high-grade spices and premium quality fresh ingredients sourced from all over the world. These are carefully combined in over a dozen different savory blends that will give any dish a mouth-watering smell and absolutely delicious taste.

This seasoning blend is perfect for use on ribs, brisket, burnt ends, pulled pork, shoulder, meat, poultry, shrimp, salmon, pork butt/ chop/ cutlets, crab, sausage, pastrami, turkey, fish, venison, filet, crayfish, buffalo wings, burger, barbacoa, veal, cod, fillet, carnitas, wild game meat, prime rib, brats, lamb, boneless, tri tips, frog legs, crabs, beef, chicken, steaks, hamburgers, and more!

Pappy's Choice Seasonings – Original is also great on corn a cob, pasta, peanuts, melting pots, gyros, vegetables, spaghetti, chili, gumbo, salads, souvlaki, slow cooker meals, dressings, mushrooms, sunflower seeds, soups, creams, poke, burritos, quesadillas, eggs, rotisserie meats, schwarma, chips, french fries, dips, stews, bloody marys, tacos, hot dogs, tofu, rice, and just about everything!

Experience a 30 year Californian tradition and try all seasoning blends, sauces, and marinades. Pappy's Fine Foods products are guaranteed to satisfy you completely or your money back, no questions asked!

California's Legendary Seasoning Blends, Pappy's Choice Seasonings – Original is the West Coast's most popular seasoning blend for Santa Maria style trip-tips. It has been the choice of professionals, restaurant chefs, barbecue joints, and families for over 30 years. With high-grade spices and premium quality fresh ingredients sourced from all over the world, this seasoning blend will give any dish a mouth-watering smell and absolutely delicious taste. Use it on a variety of meats, seafood, vegetables, and more to take your dishes to the next level. Try all the seasoning blends, sauces, and marinades from Pappy's Fine Foods to experience a 30 year Californian tradition.

3. Cattlemen's Cowboy Rub, 27.25 Oz – A Flavorful Bbq Rub With Hickory Smoke, Molasses, And Coffee, Ideal For Beef, Chicken, And Brisket.

Cattlemen's Cowboy Rub is a premium BBQ rub that delivers a bold, smoky taste to your favorite dishes. Made with a rich blend of hickory smoke, molasses, and coffee, this versatile seasoning is perfect for enhancing the flavor of steak, chicken, pork, or ribs.

Crafted with food service in mind, this cowboy rub is designed to meet the flavor needs of chefs and home cooks alike. The pre-mixed blend offers consistent results, making it easy to create delicious dishes every time.

Whether you're looking to create a dry rub or a signature sauce, Cattlemen's Cowboy Rub is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes. Use it to add flavor to proteins, vegetables, or any other dish that could use a little extra kick.

Not only does Cattlemen's Cowboy Rub taste great, it's also made with high-quality ingredients you can feel good about. This BBQ rub is Non-GMO Project Verified and kosher, and it contains no added MSG. So, you can serve grilled, smoked, and seared recipes to all your guests without guilt.

In conclusion, if you're looking to add bold, smoky flavor to your favorite dishes, look no further than Cattlemen's Cowboy Rub. Made with premium ingredients and designed to deliver consistent results, this versatile seasoning is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

4. Killer Hogs Bbq Tx Brisket Rub: Championship-Grade Seasoning For Brisket, Ribs, Steaks & Turkey. 16oz (11oz Net Weight).

Killer Hogs BBQ TX Brisket Rub is a championship BBQ and grill seasoning that is perfect for Texas brisket. Developed and used by the award-winning Killer Hogs Championship BBQ team, this rub is designed to make you a brisket master.

This rub has been in production for over 10 years and has shipped hundreds of thousands of units across the United States. It has received the highest ratings from professional pitmasters, amateurs, backyard BBQ enthusiasts, chefs, and everyone in between.

The Texas Brisket Rub is designed for consistent results, so you don't have to worry about seasoning your brisket. It provides a delicious, rich flavor that you can count on time and time again.

Killer Hogs prides itself in manufacturing all of its products in the USA using only the highest quality ingredients. The Texas Brisket Rub is no exception, and it is made with carefully selected spices and herbs to ensure that it delivers the perfect flavor.

In addition to brisket, this rub is also great on ribs, steaks, or turkey, making it a versatile seasoning for any BBQ or grilling occasion. Whether you're a professional pitmaster or a backyard BBQ enthusiast, this rub will give you the championship flavor you're looking for.

At Killer Hogs, customer satisfaction is a top priority. If for any reason you are not satisfied with your purchase of any Killer Hogs product, the company will gladly refund your money with no questions asked. This no-risk, no-hassle policy has been in place for almost a decade, and it reflects the company's commitment to providing the best possible products and customer service.

Overall, the Killer Hogs BBQ TX Brisket Rub is a championship seasoning that delivers consistent results and delicious flavor. Made in the USA with high-quality ingredients and backed by a no-risk guarantee, this rub is a must-have for any BBQ or grilling enthusiast.

5. Kosmos Q Cow Cover Bbq Rub – 10.5 Oz Shaker Bottle For Brisket, Steak, Ribs, And Burgers. Savory Blend, Best Barbecue Rub, Meat Seasoning, And Spice Dry Rub.

Kosmos Q Cow Cover BBQ Rub is an award-winning seasoning that elevates the taste of beef, poultry, and other BBQ creations. The savory blend of spices delivers a mouthwatering explosion of rich red goodness with a subtle, yet thrilling heat. This dry rub has been tested in World Championships by World Champions, ensuring that the quality is top-notch.

With just a sprinkle, the Cow Cover BBQ Rub can enhance the flavor of casseroles, potatoes, baked beans, and more. This versatile seasoning is easy to use, making it infinitely customizable and perfect for those who want to enjoy rich-smelling and deliciously succulent dishes.

The 10.5 oz shaker bottle of Cow Cover BBQ Rub is the best barbecue rub for brisket, steak, ribs, and burgers. Its special blend of spices is the perfect balance of savory and smoky-heat, making it a favorite among BBQ critics. The flavor is so versatile that it goes well with almost anything, making it perfect for hosting family barbecues and tailgates.

Kosmos Q, the maker of Cow Cover BBQ Rub, is committed to quality. The rub has been tested in World Championships by World Champions, ensuring that it meets the highest standards. If it's not good enough for Kosmos Q, then it's not good enough for you.

In conclusion, Kosmos Q Cow Cover BBQ Rub is a must-have for anyone who loves BBQ. Its savory blend of spices and subtle heat add an explosion of flavor to any dish, making it perfect for brisket, steak, ribs, burgers, and more. Its versatility makes it easy to use and perfect for hosting family barbecues and tailgates. With Kosmos Q, you can be sure that you're getting the best barbecue rub on the market.

6. Jake's Righteous Rubs Santa Maria Seasoning For Tri-Tip Steak Bbq Rub, 11 Oz, Gluten Free.

Jake's Righteous Rubs presents its famous Santa Maria Seasoning and Tri-tip Rub in an easy-to-use 11 oz shake and sift container. This pure seasoning and rub is made with delicious and satisfying spices that can make over 100 pounds of seasoned meat.

Unlike other meat seasonings, Jake's Famous Santa Maria Seasoning contains no MSG, is gluten-free, and is made with natural ingredients for a better flavor and tastier results. It is also paleo and keto-friendly, making it perfect for those who focus on taste and consumption management, especially on grass-fed meat, fish and seafood, poultry, and turkey.

The versatility of this rub is unmatched. The blend of salt, pepper, garlic, and spices can be used on a wide variety of meats, including chicken, pork, beef, lamb, tri-tip, and even vegetables. This makes it an essential ingredient to have on hand for all your cooking needs.

One of the key features of Jake's Famous Santa Maria Seasoning is that it marinates quickly. Its powerful and intense natural ingredients make it easy to use and marinate in half the time. Simply shake on or rub in the seasoning and let it rest for 45 minutes for perfectly seasoned meat every time.

Customer satisfaction is a top priority for Jake's Righteous Rubs. Customers rave about the taste and quality of the hickory smoked BBQ rub, and the company is confident that you will love it too. It is a must-have for any BBQ enthusiast or home cook looking to elevate their cooking game.

In conclusion, Jake's Famous Santa Maria Seasoning and Tri-tip Rub is a natural, gluten-free, and versatile seasoning that can be used on a wide variety of meats and vegetables. Its quick marination time and intense natural ingredients make it the perfect seasoning for any BBQ or home-cooked meal. Give it a try and taste the difference for yourself!

7. Traeger Grills Spc178 Blackened Saskatchewan Dry Rub

Traeger Grills SPC178 Blackened Saskatchewan Dry Rub is a versatile seasoning blend that adds flavor to any meat or vegetable dish. Made with Traeger's signature spice blend, this dry rub is a must-have for any BBQ lover. Whether you're grilling up some beef, poultry, pork, or veggies, this seasoning blend will add a delicious kick to your meal.

The Traeger Grills SPC178 Blackened Saskatchewan Dry Rub is made with a blend of spices and a hint of garlic, delivering a unique taste that will have your taste buds dancing. It is perfect for those who love a little bit of heat without overpowering the natural flavors of the meat. This seasoning blend is also versatile, making it perfect for a wide range of dishes.

The rub comes in a stackable aluminum tin container, making it easy to store and keep fresh. This container is designed to keep the seasoning blend fresh and flavorful for longer periods. You can easily stack multiple containers on top of each other, saving space in your pantry or spice rack.

One of the best things about Traeger Grills SPC178 Blackened Saskatchewan Dry Rub is that it is kosher, gluten-free, and GMO-free. This makes it a great option for anyone with dietary restrictions or concerns. You can enjoy the delicious taste of this seasoning blend without worrying about harmful ingredients or allergens.

The Traeger Grills SPC178 Blackened Saskatchewan Dry Rub is made in the USA, ensuring that you are getting a high-quality product that is made with care. The seasoning blend is made with only the finest ingredients, ensuring that every dish you make with it is packed with flavor. This dry rub is perfect for anyone who loves to cook and wants to add a little bit of flavor to their meals.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a versatile seasoning blend that can add flavor to any dish, Traeger Grills SPC178 Blackened Saskatchewan Dry Rub is a great option. Made with Traeger's signature spice blend and a hint of garlic, this seasoning blend is perfect for beef, poultry, pork, or veggies. The stackable aluminum tin container makes it easy to store, and it is kosher, gluten-free, and GMO-free. Made in the USA, this seasoning blend is a must-have for any BBQ lover.

8. 25 Oz Container Of Cattlemen's Smokehouse Rub – A Bold, Peppery Bbq Seasoning For Pizzas, Steaks, And Briskets.

Cattlemen's Smokehouse Rub is a premium BBQ seasoning that provides a bold and savory taste to a wide range of dishes. This 25-ounce container contains a blend of coarse ground sea salt, garlic, and ancho chilies that add flavor and visual appeal to any recipe.

Crafted specifically for food service, this rub is perfect for chefs who want to experiment with barbecue favorites and new recipes. Its versatile taste and texture make it suitable for a variety of dishes, including vegetables, seafood, and meat. Whether you're grilling, smoking, or roasting, Cattlemen's Smokehouse Rub is sure to elevate your dishes to new heights.

The rub's coarse texture delivers a visually appealing flavor that infuses a peppery, made-from-scratch taste into any recipe that needs a kick. Its premium flavor profile makes it suitable for use in any savory recipe, and its back-of-house convenience means that it's easy to use in any kitchen.

Cattlemen's Smokehouse Rub is made with feel-good ingredients that are non-GMO Project Verified and kosher without added MSG. This means that it contains only the ingredients you want to see in the coarse texture and on the label. So, when you use this rub, you can feel good about what you're putting into your dishes.

In summary, Cattlemen's Smokehouse Rub is a versatile and flavorful BBQ seasoning that is perfect for chefs who want to experiment with new recipes. Its bold and savory taste, premium flavor profile, and feel-good ingredients make it a must-have in any kitchen. So, whether you're cooking up steaks, briskets, or pizzas, Cattlemen's Smokehouse Rub is sure to impress.

9. Slap Yo Daddy Bbq Rub – Championship Seasoning By Pitmaster Harry Soo – 26 Oz, No Msg, Gluten-Free, Perfect For Beef Brisket, Steak, And More.

Slap Yo Daddy BBQ Rub is an award-winning seasoning made by Grand Champion Pitmaster Harry Soo. This championship BBQ seasoning is perfect for mouthwatering beef brisket, juicy steak, and more. The Moola Beef rub is deliciously balanced with an earthy profile and a touch of heat to enhance the natural, succulent flavor of your smoking and grilling.

This versatile championship seasoning is more than just a beef brisket rub. It elevates vegetables, tofu, potatoes, eggs, popcorn, and more to a bold level of flavor. Slap Yo Daddy BBQ Rubs are artisanal small-batch and Made in the USA. They are crafted by hand following the original championship recipe developed by award-winning Pitmaster Harry Soo.

Slap Yo Daddy BBQ Rubs have a deliciously balanced flavor that is both savory and spicy. The Moola Beef rub is a perfect blend of spices that will enhance the natural flavors of your meat. It is perfect for grilling, smoking, or even baking. The seasoning works great for beef, pork, chicken, and fish.

Unlike other BBQ rubs and spices, Slap Yo Daddy is gluten-free and contains no MSG. This makes it safe and delicious for everyone to enjoy. The rubs are made with all-natural ingredients and contain no artificial preservatives or flavors.

Slap Yo Daddy BBQ Rubs are an award-winning seasoning that has been used by professional BBQ teams all over the world. The rubs have won numerous awards and have been featured on television shows and in magazines. They are perfect for home cooks who want to take their BBQ to the next level.

In conclusion, Slap Yo Daddy BBQ Rubs are the perfect seasoning for anyone who loves delicious, bold flavors. They are versatile, gluten-free, and made with all-natural ingredients. The Moola Beef rub is perfect for beef brisket, steak, and more. Try it today and take your BBQ to the next level!

Best Tri Tip Rub For Smoking FAQs

Can a tri tip rub for smoking be used on other types of meat?

Yes, a tri tip rub for smoking can be used on other types of meat. The key is to consider the flavor profile of the rub and how it will complement the meat. For example, a rub that is heavy on garlic and pepper may work well on beef, but may overpower chicken or pork. Similarly, a rub that has a sweeter profile may work well on pork or poultry, but may not be the best choice for beef. It is important to also consider the cooking method and temperature when using a rub on different types of meat. For example, a rub that is designed for slow smoking may not work as well on a quick grilled chicken breast. Overall, experimenting with different rubs and meats can lead to delicious and unique flavor combinations.

How do different types of wood chips affect the flavor of a tri tip rub for smoking?

The type of wood chips used in smoking a tri tip can have a significant impact on the flavor of the rub. For instance, hickory chips are known to produce a strong and bold flavor that complements the spiciness of the rub. On the other hand, fruitwood chips such as apple, cherry or peach produce a more subtle and sweet flavor that accentuates the sweetness of the rub. Mesquite chips, with their distinctive smokiness, can enhance the earthiness of the rub for a bolder flavor. Additionally, oak chips produce a rich and mellow flavor that creates a balance between the rub and the meat. Ultimately, the choice of wood chips used in smoking a tri tip rub depends on personal preference and the desired flavor profile.

What are some popular recipes for a tri tip rub for smoking?

Tri-tip is a popular cut of beef that is often smoked to perfection. To achieve the perfect flavor, a rub is used to season the meat. There are several popular recipes for a tri-tip rub, some of which include:

1. Classic Tri-Tip Rub: This rub includes a combination of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.

2. Coffee Rub: This unique rub includes a combination of coffee grounds, brown sugar, chili powder, smoked paprika, and salt.

3. Santa Maria Rub: A popular rub used in California, this recipe includes a combination of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried rosemary, and dried oregano.

4. Cajun Rub: This spicy rub includes a combination of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.

No matter which rub you choose, be sure to apply it generously to the tri-tip before smoking to ensure maximum flavor.

What are some tips for applying and cooking with a tri tip rub for smoking?

When applying a tri tip rub for smoking, here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Apply the rub generously: Tri-tip is a large cut of meat, so don't skimp on the rub. Use enough to coat the entire surface of the meat.

2. Let the rub sit: Once the rub is applied, let the meat sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.

3. Use a smoker: Tri-tip is best cooked low and slow on a smoker. Aim for a temperature of 225-250°F and smoke the meat until it reaches an internal temperature of 130-135°F for medium-rare.

4. Wrap the meat: Once the tri-tip is smoked, wrap it in foil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meat moist.

5. Slice against the grain: When it's time to slice the tri-tip, make sure to cut against the grain to ensure tender slices.

Overall, a good tri tip rub can enhance the flavor of this delicious cut of meat, but it's important to cook it correctly to get the best results.

What are the essential ingredients for a great tri tip rub for smoking?

A great tri tip rub for smoking requires a balance of flavors that complement the natural taste of the meat. The essential ingredients for a tri tip rub include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and chili powder. Other ingredients that can be added to enhance the flavor include cumin, coriander, and brown sugar. The amount of each ingredient used will depend on personal preference and the size of the tri tip. It is important to evenly coat the meat with the rub before smoking it to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed. The rub can be applied a few hours before smoking or even overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. A great tri tip rub will enhance the flavor of the meat and create a delicious crust on the outside.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 0 / 5. Vote count: 0

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Sharing is caring!

Leave a Comment