One thing I always do during summer cookout season is mix up a batch of rib rub. Despite what the dozens of highly branded and cleverly pitched spice blends lead you to believe, rib rubs can be super simple. My go-to rib seasoning mix has just five ingredients — all of which are probably already in your pantry. Here, a savory-sweet combination of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper is all you need to coax the best flavor from pork ribs. Whether you’re a newbie at the grill or a seasoned pro, this is the rib rub that will make every rack a winner.

Key ingredients

Brown sugar: Light or dark brown sugar adds sweetness to the rub with a hint of molasses flavor.

Paprika: Paprika gives this rib rub a mild peppery flavor. Opt for smoked over sweet paprika, especially if you’re not cooking ribs on the grill or smoker.

Kosher salt: Salt is essential for seasoning anything you’re cooking — including ribs. We’ve tested this recipe with both Diamond Crystal and Morton kosher salt.

Garlic powder: Add even more savory flavor to the rib rub with garlic powder. This spice is made by drying fresh garlic and grinding it into a fine powder. Make sure you’re not using garlic salt, which can tip the seasoning scale.

Black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper will deliver more of its signature bite than pre-ground pepper.