Skip the store-bought stuff—this Steak Seasoning Recipe is about to become your go-to for juicy, flavorful steaks every time. It’s bold, balanced, and best of all? You probably already have everything you need in your pantry!
Get ready…this is the BEST Steak Seasoning Recipe
Over the years, as I’ve learned to read labels more carefully, I’ve found myself making more and more of my own spice blends and seasoning packets. It just makes sense—fewer additives, better control, and way more flavor. This steak seasoning is no exception.
It’s rich and savory with a warm kick, and I’ve tailored it to include less black pepper than most blends, which I especially appreciate since I have a mild pepper sensitivity (too much and I end up in a coughing fit—not fun at a BBQ!).
And don’t even get me started on rubbing this all over a New York Strip or Ribeye steak — that beautiful seasoned crust from the sear – yum!
Why you’ll love Homemade Steak Seasoning
- Made with pantry staples. You probably have everything you need in your spice cabinet right now. No need for a special trip to the store or pricey blends.
- Less peppery, more balanced flavor. Most steak seasonings go heavy on the black pepper (hello Montreal steak seasoning), but this one is smoother and more rounded. It’s perfect if you’re sensitive to pepper or prefer a subtler spice. And hey, if you love pepper, then feel free to load it up!
- Customizable to your taste. Want it spicier? Sweeter? Salt-free? You’re in charge. This blend is easy to tweak and fits exactly what you like.
- No artificial ingredients or preservatives. You’ll recognize every single item in this jar—no mystery fillers or weird additives. It’s clean, simple, and great for anyone avoiding processed foods.
- Versatile — great for steak, burgers, pork loin, pork chops, veggies, seafood and more! It adds bold flavor to way more than just beef. You can use it as an all-purpose seasoning for grilling, roasting, or sautéing. Roasting a turkey in the oven, rub this all over beforehand — you won’t regret it.
DIY Steak Seasoning ingredients + Variations
- Salt: Salt is essential for flavor and tenderizing meat. Kosher salt is ideal for even seasoning, I love Diamond Crystal or Redmond Real Salt. But any coarse salt will work, I also love using flaky sea salt or smoked salt for smoky flavors.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky undertone that mimics the flavor of the grill, even if you’re cooking indoors.
- Garlic Powder: Hello garlic, always adds great flavor!
- Onion Powder: Milder than fresh onion, but still adds a subtle sweetness.
- Herbs: I used dried oregano, and rosemary but feel free to use thyme, cumin or your favorite!
- Black Pepper: Just enough to give a little warmth without overwhelming that steak taste—perfect if you’re sensitive to pepper.
- Brown Sugar: A hint of sweetness helps balance the salt and spice, and aids in caramelization for a gorgeous sear. You can use light or dark brown sugar.
- Dried Rosemary: Rosemary adds a woodsy, aromatic flavor that pairs especially well with red meat.
- Cayenne Pepper (optional): Totally optional, but a small pinch gives just the right amount of heat if you like a little kick. Or also try adding red pepper flakes to your dry rub.
Get the full recipe in the recipe card below.
Best Salt for Steak Seasoning
Kosher salt is ideal for this blend—it distributes evenly and enhances flavor without overwhelming. Flaky sea salt adds a little extra crunch and steakhouse flair for a finishing touch. If you’re watching sodium or prefer to salt your food separately, simply omit the salt from the blend and add it to taste when cooking.
How to Make this Steak Seasoning Recipe
Step 1 – Combine the Spices
In a small bowl or spice jar, combine all the ingredients.
Step 2 – Use on Steak or Other or Store for Later
Pat the steak or protein dry using paper towels and season both sides with 1–2 teaspoons per side, or to taste, rubbing gently into the steak. Let rest at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before cooking. Or toss it in the fridge overnight for next level flavor!
Store leftover seasoning in an airtight container (I like these glass jars) in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
Using this Seasoning for Steak + More
While I think this is the best steakhouse seasoning, taking a good steak into a great steak, you can use it on so many other proteins and veggies.
- Steak: Grilled, pan-seared, air-fried, broiled, sous vide—perfectly seasoned every time.
- Burgers: Mix one tablespoon into 1 lb of ground beef before forming patties.
- Roasted Veggies: Toss with potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts and olive oil.
- Chicken: Rub onto thighs, breasts, or wings before cooking.
- Mushrooms: Especially good on grilled or roasted portobello caps.
- Steak Fries: Sprinkle while hot for a savory finish.
- Seafood: Lightly dust over salmon or shrimp before baking or broiling
How much seasoning to put on a steak
A good rule of thumb is 1 to 2 teaspoons per side of the steak, depending on the size and thickness of your steak. The quantity will depend on your preference, though! You want a nice even coat, but not so much that it overpowers the meat!
How to get seasoning to stick to steak
Start with a dry steak by patting it down with paper towels on the surface of the meat to remove moisture. Once seasoned, let it sit for 20–30 minutes so the seasoning can absorb and stick. A very light brush of olive oil before seasoning can help it adhere better.
How to Store the Best Seasoning for Steak
Make this spice rub ahead and store it so you are ready for steak dinners anytime! Store it in an airtight glass jar or container in a cool, dry place—your pantry or spice cabinet is perfect. It‘ll retain its flavor for up to 6 months. Be sure to use fresh spices and herbs too!
FAQ for DIY Steak Seasoning
Absolutely! This blend is delicious on chicken thighs, wings, and breasts—just rub it on before grilling or baking.
Yes! It also pairs wonderfully with pork, especially thick-cut chops, pork tenderloin, or pork loin. Just season a steak as you would and cook it to your liking.
This seasoning blend isn’t just for steak! You can try it in burgers, sprinkled on roasted vegetables, on grilled portobello mushrooms, or on any form of potato like steak fries or baked potatoes!
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Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt or 1½ tablespoons flaky sea salt
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon black pepper or more if more peppery is desired
- ½ teaspoon brown sugar see Notes
- ¼ teaspoon dried rosemary lightly crushed
- Pinch of cayenne pepper optional
Instructions
- In a small bowl or spice jar, stir together all ingredients.1 tablespoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ¾ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon brown sugar, ¼ teaspoon dried rosemary
- Pat steak dry and season both sides with 1–2 teaspoons per side (or to taste), rubbing gently into the steak.
- Let rest at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before cooking.
- Store leftover seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
Notes
Ways to Use It:
- Steak: Grilled, pan-seared, air-fried, broiled—perfectly seasoned every time.
- Burgers: Mix 1 tablespoon into 1 lb of ground beef before forming patties.
- Roasted Veggies: Toss with potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts and olive oil.
- Chicken: Rub onto thighs, breasts, or wings before cooking.
- Mushrooms: Especially good on grilled or roasted portobello caps.
- Steak Fries: Sprinkle while hot for a savory finish.
Tips & Notes:
- Flaky sea salt adds a steakhouse-style crunch—great as a finishing touch.
- To make salt-free; omit salt and season to taste when cooking.
- Easily double or triple the batch to keep on hand!
- If you like more pepper seasoning, add up to 1 tablespoon of black pepper.
- You can omit the brown sugar if preferred, but it’s just a touch and helps caramelize the steak’s outside. Use light brown or dark brown sugar.
Nutrition
natalie
The perfect seasoning for steak that adds just enough flavor!
YAY! So happy you loved it!
Virginia D Conley
This sounds very good, I will be trying it today. Thanks.
So happy you’ll try it!!
Barbara
Love this seasoning! We added a bit more pepper (we like peppered steaks!) and used dark brown sugar. Thanks!
Thank you so much Barbara! That’s the beauty of making your own! Don’t like something leave it out. Love something add more!!