Welcome to a world where flavor knows no bounds! If you’re a home cook looking to spice up your roast beef game, you’re in the right place. Our roundup of 18 Spicy Roast Beef Rubs Recipes is packed with bold, mouthwatering blends that promise to transform your meals from ordinary to extraordinary. Dive in and discover your next favorite rub that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Classic Herb Roast Beef Rub

Absolutely everyone needs a go-to roast beef rub, and this classic herb version is just that. Simple, flavorful, and perfect for any cut.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp dried rosemary
- 1 tbsp dried thyme
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tbsp kosher salt, 1 tbsp black pepper, 1 tbsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp onion powder, 1 tbsp dried rosemary, and 1 tbsp dried thyme until well combined.
- Pat the roast beef dry with paper towels to ensure the rub sticks better.
- Rub 2 tbsp olive oil all over the roast beef to help the spices adhere.
- Evenly coat the roast beef with the herb rub, pressing gently to make sure it sticks.
- Place the roast beef on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up, for even cooking.
- Roast in the preheated oven until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare, about 20 minutes per pound.
- Let the roast beef rest for 15 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
Expect a crusty, flavorful exterior with a juicy, tender interior. Serve thinly sliced on a platter with horseradish sauce or pile high on sandwiches.
Spicy Coffee Rubbed Roast Beef

Mouthwatering and bold, this Spicy Coffee Rubbed Roast Beef combines heat and depth for a standout main. Perfect for those who love a kick with their roast.
Ingredients
– 3 lbs beef roast
– 2 tbsp ground coffee
– 1 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix 2 tbsp ground coffee, 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp cayenne pepper, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp black pepper.
3. Rub 3 lbs beef roast with 2 tbsp olive oil, then evenly coat with the spice mixture.
4. Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
5. Roast in the oven for 25 minutes per pound for medium-rare, or until internal temperature reaches 135°F.
6. Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
7. Slice against the grain for tender pieces.
Tender and juicy, the roast boasts a crispy spice crust with a hint of coffee bitterness. Serve thinly sliced on crusty bread or alongside roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.
Garlic and Rosemary Roast Beef Rub

Nothing beats the aromatic blend of garlic and rosemary on a succulent roast beef. This rub elevates the meat with minimal effort, perfect for a hearty meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 3 lbs beef roast
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
- Pat the beef roast dry with paper towels for better rub adhesion.
- Evenly coat the roast with the garlic and rosemary mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25 minutes per pound for medium-rare, or until a meat thermometer reads 135°F.
- Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
Crisp on the outside and tender inside, this roast beef bursts with savory flavors. Serve thinly sliced on a platter, or pile high on crusty bread for an unforgettable sandwich.
Smoky Paprika Roast Beef Rub

Ready to elevate your roast beef? This smoky paprika rub delivers bold flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 lb beef roast
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tbsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp onion powder, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp black pepper.
- Pat the 3 lb beef roast dry with paper towels for better rub adhesion.
- Rub 1 tbsp olive oil all over the beef roast.
- Evenly coat the roast with the spice mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25 minutes per pound for medium-rare, or until internal temperature reaches 135°F.
- Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
Amazingly tender with a smoky crust, this roast beef pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables or sliced thin for sandwiches.
Mustard and Brown Sugar Roast Beef Rub

This mustard and brown sugar roast beef rub transforms your cut into a savory-sweet masterpiece with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 3 lbs beef roast
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tbsp yellow mustard, 1 tbsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp onion powder, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp black pepper until well combined.
- Pat the 3 lbs beef roast dry with paper towels to ensure the rub sticks.
- Apply the rub evenly over the entire surface of the roast, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up, to allow the fat to baste the meat as it cooks.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F for medium-rare, checking with a meat thermometer.
- Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
Great for slicing thin for sandwiches or serving thick alongside roasted vegetables. The crust is packed with flavor, while the inside stays juicy and tender.
Cajun Style Roast Beef Rub

Here’s a straightforward Cajun Style Roast Beef Rub that packs a punch. Heat up your next roast with this bold blend.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a small bowl, combine 2 tbsp paprika, 1 tbsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp onion powder, 1 tbsp dried thyme, 1 tbsp dried oregano, 1 tsp cayenne pepper, 1 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp salt. Mix well.
- Pat the roast beef dry with paper towels to ensure the rub sticks.
- Generously apply the rub all over the roast beef, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place the roast beef on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare.
- Let the roast beef rest for 15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
With a crispy exterior and juicy interior, this Cajun Style Roast Beef is bursting with flavor. Serve it thinly sliced on crusty bread for a hearty sandwich.
Asian Inspired Five Spice Roast Beef Rub

Here’s how to bring bold Asian flavors to your roast beef with a five-spice rub that’s simple yet transformative.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp five-spice powder
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 3 lbs beef roast
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tbsp five-spice powder, 1 tbsp kosher salt, 1 tbsp brown sugar, and 1 tsp ground black pepper.
- Pat the 3 lbs beef roast dry with paper towels to ensure the rub sticks.
- Rub 2 tbsp olive oil all over the beef roast.
- Evenly coat the beef roast with the spice mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25 minutes per pound for medium-rare, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F.
- Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
Juicy and aromatic, this roast beef boasts a crispy spice crust with a tender interior. Serve thinly sliced over steamed rice or in banh mi for a fusion twist.
Balsamic and Thyme Roast Beef Rub

Rustle up a meal that’s both elegant and effortless with this balsamic and thyme roast beef rub. Perfect for dinner parties or a hearty family meal, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 lbs beef roast
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp black pepper until well combined.
- Pat the 2 lbs beef roast dry with paper towels to ensure the rub sticks better.
- Evenly coat the beef roast with the balsamic and thyme mixture, covering all sides.
- Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up, for even cooking.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25 minutes per pound for medium-rare, or until a meat thermometer reads 135°F.
- Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
Flavorful and tender, this roast beef pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or atop a crusty baguette for sandwiches. The balsamic adds a subtle sweetness, while the thyme brings an earthy depth.
Chili Powder and Cumin Roast Beef Rub

You’ve likely searched high and low for a roast beef rub that packs a punch without overwhelming the meat. This Chili Powder and Cumin Roast Beef Rub is your answer, blending heat and earthiness perfectly.
Ingredients
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tbsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F to ensure it’s ready for roasting.
2. In a small bowl, combine 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tbsp ground cumin, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp black pepper thoroughly.
3. Rub 1 tbsp olive oil evenly over the surface of the roast beef to help the spices adhere.
4. Apply the spice mixture to the oiled roast beef, covering all sides for maximum flavor.
5. Place the seasoned roast beef on a rack in a roasting pan to allow heat to circulate evenly.
6. Roast in the preheated oven at 375°F for 20 minutes per pound for medium-rare, using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 135°F.
7. Let the roast beef rest for 15 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
Great for sandwiches or as a main dish, this roast beef offers a smoky, spicy crust with a tender, juicy interior. Try slicing it thin against the grain for the best texture.
Maple and Black Pepper Roast Beef Rub

Zesty flavors meet in this Maple and Black Pepper Roast Beef Rub, perfect for elevating your weekend roast. Simple ingredients create a bold crust that’s both sweet and spicy.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 3 lb beef roast
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- In a small bowl, mix maple syrup, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
- Pat the beef roast dry with paper towels to ensure the rub sticks better.
- Evenly coat the roast with the maple mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25 minutes per pound for medium-rare, or until a meat thermometer reads 135°F.
- Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
Outstandingly tender, the roast boasts a caramelized crust with a hint of sweetness from the maple. Serve thinly sliced on crusty bread or alongside roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.
Orange Zest and Coriander Roast Beef Rub

Just when you thought roast beef couldn’t get any better, this Orange Zest and Coriander Rub comes along to prove you wrong.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp orange zest
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 lbs beef roast
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tbsp orange zest, 1 tbsp ground coriander, 1 tbsp kosher salt, and 1 tsp black pepper.
- Rub 2 tbsp olive oil all over the 3 lbs beef roast.
- Apply the spice mixture evenly over the oiled roast, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25 minutes per pound for medium-rare, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F.
- Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
Aromatic and slightly citrusy, this roast beef is tender with a perfectly spiced crust. Serve thinly sliced on a platter with roasted vegetables for a stunning centerpiece.
Lemon Pepper Roast Beef Rub

Perfect for spicing up your roast beef, this Lemon Pepper Rub combines zest and heat for a flavorful crust.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tbsp lemon zest, 1 tbsp black pepper, 1 tbsp salt, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, and 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper until well combined.
- Rub 2 tbsp olive oil evenly over the surface of a 3-pound beef roast.
- Apply the spice mixture to the oiled roast, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25 minutes per pound for medium-rare, or until a meat thermometer reads 135°F.
- Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
Tender and juicy, this roast beef boasts a bold lemon-pepper crust. Serve thinly sliced on crusty bread or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Honey Mustard Roast Beef Rub

Honey mustard roast beef rub brings a sweet and tangy kick to your Sunday roast. Here’s how to make it right.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 3 lbs beef roast
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a small bowl, mix honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil until smooth.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Stir to combine.
- Pat the beef roast dry with paper towels to ensure the rub sticks well.
- Evenly coat the beef roast with the honey mustard mixture using a brush or your hands.
- Place the coated roast on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25 minutes per pound for medium-rare, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F.
- Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
The roast beef comes out juicy with a caramelized crust. Try serving thin slices on crusty bread with arugula for a quick sandwich.
Garlic and Onion Powder Roast Beef Rub

Garlic and onion powder roast beef rub transforms your roast into a flavorful masterpiece with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 lb beef roast
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tbsp garlic powder, 2 tbsp onion powder, 1 tbsp salt, and 1 tbsp black pepper.
- Rub 1 tbsp olive oil all over the 3 lb beef roast to help the spices adhere.
- Evenly coat the roast with the spice mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
- Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up, for even cooking.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25 minutes per pound for medium-rare, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F.
- Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
Crusty on the outside and tender inside, this roast beef is packed with savory flavors. Serve thinly sliced on crusty bread for an unforgettable sandwich.
Brown Sugar and Chili Roast Beef Rub

Brown sugar and chili roast beef rub brings a perfect balance of sweet and heat to your dinner table. Bold flavors meet simplicity in this no-fuss recipe.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 3 lbs beef roast
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tbsp salt, 1 tbsp black pepper, 1 tbsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp onion powder, and 1 tsp cayenne pepper until well combined.
- Pat the 3 lbs beef roast dry with paper towels to ensure the rub sticks better.
- Generously apply the rub mixture all over the beef roast, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place the rubbed beef roast on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up, for even cooking.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F for medium-rare, using a meat thermometer to check.
- Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
Flavorful and tender, this roast beef boasts a caramelized crust with a spicy kick. Serve thinly sliced on crusty bread or alongside roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.
Rosemary and Garlic Roast Beef Rub

Just in time for your next dinner party, this Rosemary and Garlic Roast Beef Rub elevates your roast with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 3 lb beef roast
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tbsp olive oil, 3 tbsp fresh rosemary, 4 cloves minced garlic, 1 tbsp salt, and 1 tsp black pepper until well combined.
- Pat the 3 lb beef roast dry with paper towels to ensure the rub sticks better.
- Evenly coat the beef roast with the rosemary and garlic mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up, for even cooking.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare.
- Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
Outstandingly tender, this roast beef boasts a crispy herb crust with a juicy interior. Serve thinly sliced on a platter with roasted vegetables or as the star of your next sandwich.
Peppercorn and Herb Roast Beef Rub

Outstanding for a hearty dinner, this Peppercorn and Herb Roast Beef Rub brings bold flavors with minimal effort. Perfect for those who appreciate a no-nonsense approach to cooking.
Ingredients
– 2 tbsp black peppercorns
– 1 tbsp kosher salt
– 1 tbsp dried rosemary
– 1 tbsp dried thyme
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 3 lbs beef roast
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Crush 2 tbsp black peppercorns using a mortar and pestle until coarsely ground.
3. In a small bowl, mix crushed peppercorns with 1 tbsp kosher salt, 1 tbsp dried rosemary, and 1 tbsp dried thyme.
4. Pat 3 lbs beef roast dry with paper towels to ensure the rub adheres well.
5. Rub 2 tbsp olive oil evenly over the entire surface of the beef roast.
6. Generously apply the peppercorn and herb mixture to the oiled roast, pressing gently to adhere.
7. Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up, for even cooking.
8. Roast in the preheated oven for 25 minutes per pound for medium-rare, or until a meat thermometer reads 135°F.
9. Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
Expect a crusty exterior with a juicy, tender interior, packed with aromatic herbs and a spicy kick. Serve thinly sliced over a bed of arugula for a peppery contrast.
Soy Sauce and Ginger Roast Beef Rub

Kickstart your culinary adventure with this Soy Sauce and Ginger Roast Beef Rub, a perfect blend of savory and spicy that transforms any roast into a masterpiece.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 3 lbs beef roast
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, grated ginger, olive oil, brown sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper until well combined. Tip: Fresh ginger offers a brighter flavor than powdered.
- Place the beef roast on a clean work surface. Pat dry with paper towels to ensure the rub sticks better.
- Apply the rub evenly over the entire surface of the roast. Tip: Use your hands to massage the rub into the meat for deeper flavor penetration.
- Transfer the roast to a roasting pan fitted with a rack. Tip: The rack allows heat to circulate evenly around the roast.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F for medium-rare.
- Remove the roast from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute.
Succulent and flavorful, this roast beef boasts a caramelized crust with a tender, juicy interior. Serve thinly sliced over a bed of arugula for a refreshing contrast or alongside roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.
Conclusion
Nothing spices up your roast beef like these 18 tantalizing rubs! Whether you’re craving bold flavors or a subtle kick, our roundup has something for every palate. We invite you to try these recipes, share your favorites in the comments, and spread the love by pinning this article on Pinterest. Happy cooking, and may your roast beef be ever flavorful!