There’s something unforgettable about the sizzle of steak hitting a hot grill. For many of us, it’s more than just dinner—it’s a ritual of summer evenings, backyard laughter, and savory aromas rising into the air. I still remember the first time I marinated a sirloin using my own take on a Montreal steak seasoning marinade recipe. The crust, the juice, the flavor—it was better than most steakhouse cuts I’d paid too much for. That moment sparked my journey to perfecting this blend.

Over the years, I’ve come to realize that not all steaks are created equal. Some need more help to shine, especially leaner cuts like sirloin or flat iron. That’s where this montreal steak seasoning marinade recipe comes in. It transforms ordinary meat into a mouthwatering main dish loaded with bold, peppery flavor and a hint of smoky garlic. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or searing indoors, this marinade packs a flavor punch that sticks.

Build the Bold: Homemade Montreal Steak Seasoning

While store-bought mixes are convenient, nothing compares to the fresh flavor of your own seasoning blend. This homemade Montreal steak seasoning marinade recipe starts with a dry mix that captures everything we love about the classic: garlic, pepper, paprika, and a punch of dill seed for a tangy twist. Making it yourself means full control over the salt, heat, and quality of ingredients—plus it stores well for up to six months.

Here’s how to make it:

Homemade Montreal Steak Seasoning (Dry Mix)

Instructions:
Mix all ingredients thoroughly in a bowl. Store the seasoning in an airtight glass jar away from light and heat. This dry blend is the heart of your montreal steak seasoning marinade recipe, and it also works beautifully as a steak rub.

For those seeking variations, this mix can be adjusted easily. Need a low-sodium version? Swap kosher salt for a potassium-based substitute. Want it spicier? Just bump up the red pepper flakes or add ½ tsp cayenne. And for those avoiding soy, this homemade mix has zero soy—perfect if you plan to create a montreal steak seasoning marinade recipe without soy sauce later.

Don’t stop at steak—this dry rub also boosts grilled chicken and even roasted vegetables. For more flavor-forward dinner ideas, browse our Dinner recipes or explore something bold from our Lunch section.

The Ultimate Montreal Steak Seasoning Marinade Recipe

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• Author: Emilie
• Total Time: 26 mins + 6 hrs marinating
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This bold and juicy Montreal steak seasoning marinade recipe combines a homemade dry rub with a flavorful marinade, perfect for grilling tender and savory steaks at home.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 tbsp garlic powder

2 tbsp kosher salt

1 tbsp coarse black pepper

1 tbsp onion powder

1 tbsp ground coriander

1 tbsp dill seed

1 tbsp red pepper flakes

2 tsp paprika

1/2 cup olive oil

1/3 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce

3 cloves fresh garlic, minced

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tbsp packed brown sugar

1 tbsp homemade Montreal steak seasoning

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar with the Montreal steak seasoning.

2. In a larger bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and minced garlic.

3. Combine the wet and dry mixtures until fully blended.

4. Place steaks in a resealable bag or container and pour marinade over them.

5. Seal and refrigerate for 6 to 12 hours for optimal flavor.

6. Remove steaks from marinade, pat dry slightly, and apply extra seasoning for crust.

7. Grill over medium-high heat for 6–8 minutes per side or until desired doneness.

8. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Reserve extra dry seasoning for use as a finishing rub after marinating.

Use low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos for a reduced-salt version.

Substitute soy sauce with balsamic and red wine vinegar for a soy-free option.

Add cayenne to the dry mix for heat, or vinegar for extra zing.

Works well on sirloin, flat iron, and flank steak.

• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 16 mins
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 steak
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 25g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: montreal steak seasoning marinade recipe, steak marinade, montreal seasoning recipe steak marinade

The Ultimate Montreal Steak Marinade

Now that you’ve got the dry seasoning mastered, it’s time to take it to the next level. This is where the real transformation happens. By combining your homemade spice mix with just the right balance of oils, acids, and aromatics, you create a marinade that tenderizes your steak while infusing it with savory, smoky, garlicky depth. It’s bold, it’s balanced—and it’s fast to prepare.

This montreal steak seasoning marinade recipe is ideal for tougher or leaner cuts of meat, like sirloin or flank steak, but it works equally well on premium cuts if you want maximum flavor.

Montreal Steak Marinade Recipe

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and the Montreal steak seasoning to create a cohesive spice base.
2. In a separate larger bowl or mixing jar, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and minced garlic until well combined.
3. Add the spice base to the liquid mix. Whisk well until all the ingredients are completely blended together. hisk thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Place your steaks in a resealable plastic bag or glass container. Pour the marinade over the steaks, making sure each piece is evenly coated.
5. Seal and refrigerate. Let the steak marinate for at least 6 hours, ideally overnight for the deepest flavor.

This montreal steak seasoning marinade recipe allows each element—acid, fat, salt, and spice—to work together, transforming your cut into something rich, tender, and complex.

Looking for an easy soy-free option? Replace soy sauce with balsamic vinegar and add an extra teaspoon of Worcestershire. That makes this a flexible montreal steak seasoning marinade recipe without soy sauce.

Need something bright and acidic instead? A splash of red wine vinegar can be used for a tangier montreal steak seasoning marinade recipe vinegar variation.

Whether you’re planning a hearty lunch or prepping an unforgettable grilled dinner, this marinade is the flavor anchor you need.

Pro Tips, Variations & Flavor Hacks

If you want restaurant-level flavor at home, the marinade is just the beginning. The best steak is built on layers—aromatic spices, proper marination, a killer crust, and a sizzling finish. Here’s how to take this montreal steak seasoning marinade recipe from great to unforgettable.

The Flavor-Crust Secret: Double the Impact

Here’s the trick the best grillers swear by: reserve an extra 1½ tablespoons of your homemade Montreal seasoning. After marinating and just before cooking, pat your steak dry slightly with paper towels (don’t rinse). Then rub on the extra seasoning. This step adds texture, amps the crust, and boosts the aroma when it hits the grill.

For maximum crust, grill or pan-sear the steak dry without brushing on extra marinade. The sugars and spices will caramelize beautifully, giving you that sizzling exterior every steak lover dreams of.

Customize It: Smart Swaps for Every Diet

Not everyone wants (or can have) the same thing. This montreal steak seasoning marinade recipe is as flexible as it is flavorful.

Gluten-Free Version

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. All other ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to double-check your Worcestershire label—some brands may contain traces of wheat.

Low-Sodium Marinade

Watching your salt? Swap the soy sauce for coconut aminos or reduced-sodium tamari. You’ll still get the umami depth without overdoing the sodium.

No Soy Sauce?

Try this delicious soy-free version: replace soy sauce with 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar, 2 tsp red wine vinegar, and 1/2 tsp sea salt. This tweak delivers a zingy, savory kick in your montreal steak seasoning marinade recipe without soy sauce.

Want More Heat?

Craving a spicier kick? Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a pinch of smoked chili flakes to the seasoning mix. The result is a bold, peppery heat that builds with every bite—ideal for fans of flame.

Add Vinegar Zing

For a sharper flavor profile, stir in 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar to the wet mix. This variation works well for flank steak or skirt steak that benefits from acidity, giving you a versatile montreal steak seasoning marinade recipe vinegar option.

Best Cuts for Marinating

This recipe isn’t just about flavor—it’s about enhancing texture too. The marinade helps tenderize leaner cuts while building complexity on premium ones.

Here are the best cuts to use:

• Sirloin – Lean, economical, and benefits greatly from tenderizing.
• Flat Iron – Naturally tender, but the marinade amplifies its beefy notes.
• Skirt Steak – Perfect for tacos or slicing thin against the grain.
• Flank Steak – Soaks up marinade beautifully and cooks quickly.
• Chuck Eye Steak – A budget-friendly cut that gets steakhouse-level flavor when marinated.

Want more ideas for cuts that cook beautifully on a budget? Check out our dinner recipe section or explore smart lunch recipes here.

How to Marinate & Cook Steak Like a Pro

Once your steak is infused with the savory power of this montreal steak seasoning marinade recipe, it’s time to cook it to juicy perfection. The method you choose—grilling or pan-searing—can make all the difference. But first, timing matters.

How Long to Marinate Your Meat

You don’t want to underdo it or overdo it. Here’s a smart marination chart for getting it just right:

Tip: Never exceed 24 hours for beef, and avoid marinating delicate proteins like chicken too long—it breaks down the texture.

Grill It Right

Grilling gives your steak a smoky, charred edge, and it’s where this montreal steak seasoning marinade recipe really shines. Here’s how to do it right:

1. Remove steak from marinade and shake off excess.
2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400–450°F).
3. Pat steak dry and apply the reserved dry rub for crust.
4. Grill 6–8 minutes per side, depending on thickness and preferred doneness.
5. Allow the steak to rest for 5 minutes before slicing to seal in the juices.

Pro tip: Use a meat thermometer for precision:

• Medium-rare: 130°F
• Medium: 140°F
• Medium-well: 150°F

Pan-Searing Perfection

No grill? No problem. Cast iron searing brings restaurant-quality results right to your kitchen.

1. Heat 1 tbsp grapeseed or avocado oil in a heavy pan over high heat until smoking hot.
2. Place steak in pan. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until crust forms.
3. Optional: Finish in 375°F oven for 3–5 minutes for thicker cuts.
4. Let rest before slicing.

Pan-searing works especially well for skirt or flat iron steaks marinated in this flavorful montreal steak seasoning marinade recipe. The sugars in the marinade caramelize, while the dry rub boosts surface texture and aroma.

Conclusion

This montreal steak seasoning marinade recipe isn’t just another steak tip—it’s your secret weapon for bold, savory, unforgettable flavor. From a deeply layered homemade dry rub to a rich marinade that transforms lean cuts, this method works every time.

Whether you’re prepping steak for a casual cookout or a show-stopping weekend meal, this recipe delivers results that rival your favorite steakhouse. And with easy tweaks for gluten-free, soy-free, or low-sodium diets, it fits almost every lifestyle.

Now it’s your turn—make it, grill it, taste it. Then come back and share how it turned out in the comments. For more satisfying meals, check out our full dinner collection or whip up a quick favorite from our lunch menu.