Finding the perfect way to season a steak shouldn't be complicated or require a trip to the store. When you're staring down a busy weeknight, but need a reliable, flavorful meal the whole family will eat, this steak seasoning is going to be your secret weapon.
Whether you are grilling out back or searing a quick sirloin in a cast-iron skillet, this blend delivers that classic, steakhouse-quality crust right at home. It's a pantry staple recipe I've used dozens of times, and it works every single time.
WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
Enter your email below and we'll send it straight to your inbox. Plus you’ll get great new recipes from us every week!
Jump to:
What is Steak Seasoning?
Steak seasoning is a savory spice blend of red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and fragrant herbs used to enhance the natural flavors of beef while creating a caramelized crust. This blend of spices is often found in the iconic Montreal steak seasoning. This specific recipe creates a savory, slightly smoky crust that seals in juices while providing a professional finish to any cut of steak.
Steak is inherently delicious, but it's easy to take it up a notch with steak seasoning. This is the best steak seasoning for adding depth and complexity to your steak; it will bring out the best in whatever cut you're using!
Key Takeaways
- Make it how you like. You can control the exact ratio of ingredients to make your perfect homemade steak seasoning. Whether you want a bit more onion powder or a little less salt, the choice is yours!
- It's affordable. This Montreal steak seasoning mix is made with ingredients that you can find at any grocery store. You can make a large batch that will last you for months, without breaking the bank.
- Not just for steak. Don't let the name fool you; this steak seasoning recipe is great for all types of meats. Try it on chicken, pork chops, burgers, you name it! Or why not sprinkle some over veggies for a unique flavor twist?
- It's a quick recipe. Make it in less than 2 minutes, just measure, mix, and go.
- Meal prep friendly. Make a big batch and store it for months!
Ingredient Notes
Sea Salt - The coarse grains of sea salt are essential for a good crust.
Black Pepper - This provides a bold, classic steakhouse flavor.
Red Pepper Flakes - Gives just a hint of spice without being overpowering.
Garlic Powder - Adds a deep, savory base.
Onion Powder - Adds aromatic depth and sweetness.
Paprika - Gives the steak a beautiful color and a hint of flame-grilled flavor.
Oregano - Adds an earthy, herbal finish.
Rosemary - Adds a sweet, airy finish when paired with oregano.
How to Make Steak Seasoning
- Whisk together all of the ingredients.
- Store in an airtight container for as long as your spices are good for.
This steak seasoning is also known as Montreal Steak Seasoning.
How to Season a Steak
For the best results, season your steak at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will give the salt time to work its magic and the herbs to infuse the steak with amazing flavor.
- Begin by patting the steak dry with a paper towel.
- Brush a little olive oil over the steak, then generously sprinkle your steak seasoning mix over your meat - don't forget the sides of the steak too!
- Rub the steak seasoning into the steak with your hands until it is evenly distributed.
- If you're not using your steak immediately, you can cover it and place it in the fridge.
- Always let your steak come to room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking. This will ensure a delicious, evenly cooked steak every time!
Pro Tips for Best Steak Seasoning
- Dry the meat by patting it dry with a paper towel before adding the seasoning. Moisture creates steam, but a dry surface creates a crust.
- Season heavily, don't skimp on the seasonings.
- Use coarse spices like sea salt and cracked black pepper that provide a better texture for a tasty steak crust.
- For best results, let the seasoned steak sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Store the steak seasoning in a cool, dark pantry to keep the flavors potent.
Variations and Substitutions
- Add a spicy kick - Mix in ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or increase the amount of red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
- Sweet and Smoky - Add a teaspoon of brown sugar for a caramelized char.
- Savory Herb - Add additional herbs like dried thyme and increase the oregano for a savory herb flavor.
- Low Sodium - Reduce the salt by half and increase the onion and garlic powder to maintain the flavor while reducing the sodium levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are so many different types of salt to choose from. However, we don't want to use ordinary table salt when it comes to steak seasoning. Opt for a coarse-ground salt with large, flaky crystals.
The larger salt crystals allow you to evenly distribute the seasoning, and they dissolve slowly, which ensures the steak's taste won't be too salty.
Sea salt and kosher salt can be used in place of one another when cooking, so either works perfectly in this recipe. As does Himalayan pink salt, which can add a subtle hint of flavor to your steak.
Dried herbs and spices don't really have an expiration date (unless otherwise specified), but the flavors will start to fade after a little while. When making this homemade steak seasoning mix, it's best to store it in an airtight container, like a mason jar, and use it within 2 years.
Keep your Montreal steak seasoning away from overexposure to light, heat, and moisture to prolong its lifespan.
The great thing about making your own steak seasoning is that you can customize it however you like. For a spicy flavor, add cayenne pepper, or for a sweeter flavor, add brown sugar.
Try cooking your steak in a pan for a quick and easy steak dinner. A cast-iron skillet is great for creating an even layer of heat, which helps to seal in the juices and flavor. A grilled steak is also delicious and has that beautiful chargrill flavor profile. For thicker cuts of meat, reverse-searing steak is especially effective.
No matter your cooking method, consider the different levels of cooked steak and cook accordingly. A well-seasoned steak will taste amazing whether it's rare, medium, or well done!
This seasoning is naturally gluten-free, depending on the brand of seasonings that you use to make this recipe. Not all brands are gluten-free; always check all brands of seasoning before creating yours to ensure it is gluten-free.
After seasoning the steak, let it rest for at least 30 minutes at room temperature before preparing.
WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
Enter your email below and we will send it straight to your inbox. Plus you will get great new recipes from us every week!
Steak Seasoning
Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons sea salt (flaky)
- 2 teaspoons black pepper (coarsely ground)
- 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
- ¼ cup garlic powder
- ¼ cup onion powder
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 2 tablespoons oregano (dried)
- 2 tablespoons rosemary (dried)
Instructions
- Whisk together all of the ingredients.
- Store in an airtight container for as long as your spices are good for.
Nutrition
What to Serve with Steak
Storage and Reheating
Store the dry mix in an airtight jar in a cool, dry location at room temperature. This can be stored for up to 2 years if properly sealed.
Looking for more great steak recipes and posts?
- Reverse Sear Steak
- Best Steak Knives
- How to Cook Steak in a Pan
- How to Grill Steak
- Steak Seasoning
- How Long Does Steak Last in the Freezer
- Herb Steak Butter
- Grilled T-Bone Steak
- Blue Cheese Steak Salad with Balsamic Dressing
- Chopped Steak Salad
- Grilled Flank Steak
- Garlic Herb Kabobs
- Leftover Steak Tacos
- Dijon Peppercorn Steak
- Sheet Pan Steak Fajitas
This easy steak seasoning proves that a few pantry staple ingredients can transform a basic piece of meat into something special. This seasoning provides the best crust on a delicious steak.
Did you make this recipe? Leave a ⭐️ review and share it on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest!
Leave a Reply