Table of Contents
- Introduction: Why Seasoning Matters for Steak
- Top 10 Seasonings to Put on Steak
- How to Use These Seasonings Like a Pro
- Matching Seasonings with Steak Cuts
- DIY Steak Seasoning Blends You Must Try
- Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Seasonings
- Final Thoughts
Introduction: Why Seasoning Matters for Steak
If you’ve ever taken a bite of a perfectly seasoned steak and felt like you were in culinary heaven, you’re not alone. Seasoning is the unsung hero of steak preparation — it doesn’t just add flavor, it enhances the entire eating experience.

But with so many options out there, from garlic powder to smoked paprika, choosing the right seasonings can feel overwhelming. Whether you're grilling up a ribeye for dinner or searing a filet mignon for a special occasion, this guide will walk you through the best spices to use, how to apply them, and which ones pair best with different cuts of meat.
Top 10 Seasonings to Put on Steak
Let’s cut to the chase — here are the top 10 seasonings that can elevate your steak game:
- Salt
- Black Pepper
- Garlic Powder
- Onion Powder
- Paprika (Sweet & Smoked)
- Rosemary
- Thyme
- Cumin
- Chili Powder
- Dried Mustard
Seasoning | Flavor Profile | Best For | Usage Tip |
---|---|---|---|
Salt | Savory, umami boost | All steak types | Use coarse sea salt or kosher salt |
Black Pepper | Spicy, earthy | Rich cuts like ribeye | Freshly ground for best flavor |
Garlic Powder | Robust, aromatic | Any grilled or pan-seared steak | Avoid garlic granules for even coating |
Onion Powder | Sweet, sharp | Flat iron or sirloin | Combine with salt and pepper |
Smoked Paprika | Smoky, slightly sweet | Grilled flank or skirt steak | Add before or after cooking |
Rosemary | Piney, resinous | Lamb or beef roasts | Use fresh sprigs or finely chopped dried |
Thyme | Earthy, minty | Slow-roasted steaks | Mix with oil for marinades |
Cumin | Earthy, nutty | Tacos or Tex-Mex dishes | Great in rubs with chili powder |
Chili Powder | Spicy, complex | Skirt steak fajitas | Balance heat with lime or avocado |
Dried Mustard | Sharp, tangy | Crusted coatings | Used with breadcrumbs or sugar |
How to Use These Seasonings Like a Pro
It's one thing to know what goes well with steak, but another entirely to apply it properly. Here are some pro tips:
- Dry Brining: Rub salt and pepper onto the steak and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or overnight). This helps the seasoning penetrate deeper into the meat.
- Balancing Flavors: If you’re using strong spices like cumin or chili powder, balance them with something sweet or acidic like honey or citrus zest.
- The Oil Trick: Toss your seasoning mix with a bit of olive oil or melted butter to help it stick better to the steak.

Matching Seasonings with Steak Cuts
Not all steaks are created equal. Some benefit more from bold flavors, while others shine with simpler seasoning. Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
Steak Cut | Recommended Seasonings | Why It Works |
---|---|---|
Ribeye | Salt, Black Pepper, Garlic Powder | Its high marbling handles strong flavors beautifully |
Filet Mignon | Salt, Rosemary, Dried Mustard | Delicate meat benefits from subtle aromatic enhancement |
New York Strip | Black Pepper, Thyme, Onion Powder | Firm texture holds up to bolder spice blends |
Skirt Steak | Chili Powder, Cumin, Lime Zest | Ideal for Mexican-inspired flavors and marinades |
Flat Iron | Smoked Paprika, Garlic, Onion Powder | Great absorption of flavor due to uniform thickness |
DIY Steak Seasoning Blends You Must Try
If you love customization, making your own steak seasoning blend is both fun and rewarding. Here are three of our favorites:
Classic Cowboy Rub
- 3 tbsp coarse sea salt
- 1 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
Perfect for a rustic, no-frills steak. Sprinkle generously before grilling.
Tex-Mex Fiesta Blend
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
Ideal for tacos, fajitas, or any steak served with guacamole and lime wedges.

Herb Garden Rub
- 1 tbsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp dried rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
This fresh, earthy blend pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a glass of red wine.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Seasonings
When shopping for steak seasonings, whether pre-made or bulk spices, consider the following factors:
- Quality: Look for whole spices where possible. Freshness matters! Avoid old jars collecting dust in your pantry.
- Texture: Finely ground powders work best for even distribution. Coarse mixes can be great for crusts or dry rubs.
- Brand Reputation: Stick with trusted spice brands like McCormick, Simply Organic, or Penzeys Spices for consistency.
Popular Store-Bought Options
Product Name | Features | Advantages | Best For |
---|---|---|---|
McCormick Perfect Pinch Steak Seasoning | Pre-mixed, salt-based with garlic, onion, paprika | Convenient, no-fuss option | Everyday grilling |
Penzeys Spices Chicago Steak Seasoning | No added salt, rich in garlic and celery seed | Low-sodium alternative | Health-conscious cooks |
Stubb’s Legendary Original Bar-B-Q Rub | Mild heat, smoky undertones | Perfect for slow-smoked steaks | Outdoor BBQ lovers |
Simply Organic Beef Seasoning Blend | Organic ingredients, balanced flavor | Eco-friendly, clean label | Whole food enthusiasts |

Final Thoughts
Choosing the right seasonings for steak isn’t rocket science — it’s an art form. With the right combination, even a simple cut can become a memorable meal. Whether you're a fan of bold flavors or prefer something subtle, there’s a seasoning combo out there waiting for you.
So next time you fire up the grill or grab that cast-iron skillet, don’t settle for bland. Be bold, be adventurous, and most importantly — enjoy every bite!

Happy cooking, steak lovers!