This is a flavorful and easy creole turkey rub recipe with just the right amount of heat. While this rub is meant for turkey, you can use it on all types of poultry and pork. Give this flavorful creole rub a try, and you won’t be disappointed. This turkey rub recipe makes enough rub for an 16 pound turkey. Double the recipe for a larger bird.
What does creole seasoning taste like?
Creole seasoning is slightly smoky, a little spice, and lends a deep, rich, savory flavor to grilled and smoked meats, soups, stews, and seafood.
Creole vs. Cajun seasoning:ย While creole and Cajun seasonings are similar, they should not be considered the same thing. The first one has more herbal elements like dried thyme, basil, or oregano. The latter includes a variety of peppers like ground white and black pepper mixed with cayenne.
What you’ll need to make easy creole turkey rub:
- Coarse salt (omit if you have wet-brined the turkey)
- Granulated onion (sub with onion powder)
- Sweet paprika
- Dried herbs: oregano and thyme
- Granulated garlic
- Cayenne pepper (adjust to your liking)
- Black pepper
How to make easy creole turkey rub:
- Combine your creole turkey rub ingredients in a small bowl. Remember to omit salt if you have already wet brined the turkey.
- Make ahead of time and store in an airtight container in a cool dark cupboard for up to 1 year.
- I like to store mine in these glass jars. They are easy to use, and I can label them and place them in my pantry.
How to use this rub:
- Pat your turkey dry with paper towels and brush with a little oil.
- Apply the creole rub evenly on the surface of the turkey and under the breast skin. Cook the turkey as directed.
- Discard any remaining rub that has come into contact with raw meat.
Can you season a turkey the night before?
Yes! You certainly can season your turkey with creole rub the night before cooking. It will act like a dry brine, drawing out the liquid and redistributing back into the meat. What you’ll end up with is a juicy, tender, flavorful bird. Follow the instructions above for applying the rub. Place the turkey onto a large platter, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in your refrigerator for 18-24 hours.
Like this recipe? Try These!
- Best Turkey Injection Marinade Recipes
- Smoked Turkey Brine
- Lemon-Herb Rotisserie Turkey
- Smoked Turkey Burgers
Easy Creole Turkey Rub
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons coarse salt (omit if you have brined the turkey)
- 2 tablespoons granulated onion
- 2 tablespoons sweet paprika
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (use less if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon granulated garlic
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried thyme
Instructions
- Combine rub ingredients in a small bowl. Pat turkey dry with paper towels and apply rub evenly all over turkey, including under the breast skin. Remember to omit salt if you have already wet brined the turkey.
- If making the rub ahead of time, simply store in an airtight container in a cupboard for up to 6 months.
- Remember to discard any rub that has come into contact with raw meat.
