Why Your Steak Deserves a Montreal Makeover: 5 Spicy Reasons to Try This Marinade Tonight!

Why Your Steak Deserves a Montreal Makeover: 5 Spicy Reasons to Try This Marinade Tonight!

Montreal steak seasoning bottle with herbs

Table of Contents

Introduction to Montreal Steak Spice

If you’ve ever grilled a perfect cut of beef and felt like it was missing something, you might not need more salt — you might just need Montreal steak spice. Known for its bold, garlicky, peppery punch, this iconic blend is the secret weapon of steakhouses and backyard grillers alike. Today, we’re diving deep into the world of Montreal steak seasoning and sharing our favorite marinade recipe that will turn every steak night into a celebration.

What Is Montreal Steak Seasoning?

Close-up of Montreal seasoning spices on wooden spoon

Montreal steak seasoning isn’t from Montreal (surprise!), but it sure made its mark there. Originally created by a Canadian spice company, this mix became wildly popular in steakhouses across North America. The base ingredients typically include:

  • Cracked black pepper
  • Garlic granules
  • Onion powder
  • Paprika
  • Thyme or rosemary
  • Coriander seeds
  • Salt (of course)

It’s essentially a high-voltage flavor bomb designed specifically for red meat. Think of it as the superhero cape your steak never knew it needed.

How It Differs From Other Rubs

Type Flavor Profile Best For
Montreal Steak Seasoning Peppery, garlicky, savory Steak, ribeye, flank, striploin
Texas-Style BBQ Rub Smokey, sweet, paprika-forward Brisket, pulled pork
Caribbean Jerk Rub Spicy, citrusy, allspice-rich Chicken, pork, grilled fish

Why Use Montreal Spice in a Marinade?

You might be wondering: can’t I just sprinkle the seasoning on before grilling? Well, yes — but if you really want to unlock its potential, marinating is where the magic happens.

  • Deep penetration: The oil and acid in the marinade help the spices penetrate deeper into the meat.
  • Texture improvement: Acidic ingredients like vinegar or citrus break down muscle fibers slightly, making the steak more tender.
  • Even distribution: Mixing the spice with oil ensures every inch gets coated in flavor.

And don’t worry — the signature kick doesn’t get lost in the marinade. If anything, it intensifies.

Basic Montreal Steak Marinade Recipe

Laid out ingredients for Montreal steak marinade

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp Montreal steak seasoning
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, adds complexity)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine all ingredients until well mixed.
  2. Place 2–3 lbs of steak (flank, sirloin, or ribeye work best) in a ziplock bag or shallow dish.
  3. Pour marinade over the meat, ensuring full coverage.
  4. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 8 hours).
  5. Grill or pan-sear to desired doneness.

Pro Tip:

Don't throw away the leftover marinade! Brush some on during the last few minutes of grilling for an extra layer of flavor.

Advanced Tips for Flavor Lovers

Upgrade Your Marinade Like a Pro

  • Add a splash of lemon juice or lime zest for brightness.
  • Swap olive oil for avocado oil or sesame oil for different flavor profiles.
  • Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for an aromatic boost.
  • Use crushed coriander seeds instead of pre-ground ones for a fresher, earthier note.
  • Try adding a touch of honey or brown sugar for balance — especially good with fattier cuts.

Marination Time vs. Cut Type

Cut of Meat Recommended Marination Time Notes
Ribeye 2–6 hours Fatty, so shorter time preferred
Flank Steak 6–8 hours Leaner, benefits from longer marination
Skirt Steak 4–6 hours Tenderizes quickly, avoid over-marinating

Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Montreal Seasoning

With so many brands offering Montreal steak seasoning, how do you choose the right one? Here's a quick guide to help you navigate the aisles and find your flavor soulmate.

Top Picks & Reviews

Brand Features Pros Cons Best For
McCormick Montreal Steak Seasoning Classic, balanced blend Widely available, affordable Not overly spicy Beginners, everyday cooking
Badia Montreal Steak Mix Garlicky with smoky undertones Great price point, family-friendly May be too salty for some Weeknight meals, grilled meats
Davidson’s Safest Choice Pure Montreal Seasoning High-quality, food-safe certified Premium quality, clean label Higher price tag Special occasions, gourmet chefs
The Spice Hunter Organic Montreal Blend Organic ingredients Non-GMO, eco-conscious Less intense flavor Health-focused cooks

Homemade Option

If you're feeling adventurous, try grinding your own using this easy ratio:

  • 3 parts black peppercorns
  • 1 part garlic granules
  • 1 part onion powder
  • ½ part paprika
  • ½ part dried thyme
  • ½ part coriander seeds
  • Salt to taste

Perfect Pairings: What Goes With Montreal Steak?

Platter with grilled steak, roasted potatoes, and green beans

To complete your Montreal steak experience, consider these sidekick suggestions:

  • Garlic mashed potatoes – A creamy contrast to the bold spice.
  • Grilled vegetables – Zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms add color and texture.
  • Blue cheese butter – Adds richness and complements the peppery notes.
  • Simple green salad – Freshness to balance the indulgence.
  • Red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec) – Bold wines stand up to the strong flavors.

Conclusion: Spice Up Your Grill Game

Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or simply upgrading your weeknight dinner routine, a Montreal steak spice marinade is your golden ticket to flavor town. Packed with aromatic depth and a satisfying kick, it turns any steak into a showstopper. Now that you've got the recipe, the tools, and a few pro tips under your belt, it’s time to fire up the grill and let those spices do their thing.

So go ahead — give your steak the Montreal makeover it deserves. Your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you!

Lisa Chang

Lisa Chang

A well-traveled food writer who has spent the last eight years documenting authentic spice usage in regional cuisines worldwide. Lisa's unique approach combines culinary with hands-on cooking experience, revealing how spices reflect cultural identity across different societies. Lisa excels at helping home cooks understand the cultural context of spices while providing practical techniques for authentic flavor recreation.