Sweet and Spicy Steak Seasoning Recipe

Written by: Editor In Chief
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Why You’ll Love This Steak Seasoning Recipe

You’ll love this steak seasoning recipe because it elevates your meat to a whole new level of flavor.

I can’t stress enough how a simple blend of spices transforms a regular cut of steak into a mouthwatering masterpiece. The balance of sweet and spicy ingredients creates a tantalizing crust that makes every bite unforgettable.

I’ve used this seasoning for grilling, pan-frying, and roasting, and it never disappoints. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to mix up and customize to your taste.

Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever cooked without it. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients of Steak Seasoning

When it comes to cooking the perfect steak, the right seasoning can make all the difference. The beauty of this steak seasoning recipe is that it requires just a handful of ingredients, many of which you may already have in your pantry.

Trust me, you’ll want to keep this on hand for your next cookout or family dinner. It’s not just about flavor; it’s about creating an experience that makes you feel like a culinary genius, even if you sometimes burn your toast.

So, let’s explore what you need to whip up this fantastic seasoning!

Ingredients for Steak Seasoning:

  • 3 teaspoons salt (or 4 teaspoons kosher salt)
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 3 teaspoons dried onion flakes (or 2 teaspoons onion powder)
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Now, let’s talk a bit about these ingredients. You may be wondering why there are two different onion products on the list. The dried onion flakes add a bit of texture and a nice burst of onion flavor, while onion powder gives it that even, fine seasoning throughout.

And if you don’t have brown sugar, you can use white sugar in a pinch, though it won’t give you that same caramelized sweetness when it cooks.

Also, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can adjust the cayenne pepper to your taste—just remember, a little goes a long way. This seasoning is all about balance, and with a few minor tweaks, you can make it your own.

Happy cooking!

How to Make Steak Seasoning

homemade steak seasoning recipe

Making your own steak seasoning is as easy as pie—well, maybe easier since pie can get a bit complicated with all that crust and filling. Anyway, let’s explore it.

You’ll start with 3 teaspoons of salt, or if you prefer, 4 teaspoons of kosher salt. Toss that in a plastic ziplock bag. Yes, a ziplock bag. It’s like magic—no bowls to wash later!

Next, add 2 teaspoons of onion powder and 3 teaspoons of dried onion flakes. Why two forms of onion? It’s all about the layers, my friend. The flakes bring a nice texture, while the powder gives you that smooth, even flavor.

Now for some fun. Toss in 2 teaspoons of paprika—this will add a lovely color—2 tablespoons of brown sugar for that hint of sweetness, and 2 teaspoons of black pepper for a little kick.

Don’t forget a teaspoon of nutmeg and cumin; they’re like the secret superheroes of spices that will elevate your steak to a whole new level. Finally, just a pinch, or rather a 1/4 teaspoon, of cayenne pepper will add a delightful warmth.

Once everything is in the bag, zip it up tightly and give it a good massage. Seriously, get in there and mix it well. You want the flavors to mingle like old friends at a reunion.

After your seasoning is all mixed, you can rub it generously over your steak—feel free to use your hands; it’s your masterpiece, after all.

Let the seasoning sit for a bit; even 30 minutes can make a difference, but if you’re feeling patient, let it sit longer. Finally, grill, broil, pan-fry, or oven roast your steak to perfection. Just remember to turn it as needed to avoid that dreaded over-browning.

And there you have it—a homemade steak seasoning that’s sure to impress, even if you still struggle with boiling water. Enjoy!

Steak Seasoning Substitutions & Variations

While the classic steak seasoning recipe is a surefire way to elevate your meat, there’s no harm in experimenting with substitutions and variations to suit your taste.

For a kick, try adding more cayenne pepper or even crushed red pepper flakes. If you’re not a fan of brown sugar, swap it out for honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness.

You can also play with herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fresh twist. Want a smoky flavor? Incorporate smoked paprika instead of regular.

Get creative, and you might just discover your new favorite blend!

Additional Tips & Notes

To guarantee your steak seasoning truly shines, I recommend letting the seasoned meat rest for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply.

Don’t be afraid to adjust the spice levels; if you love heat, add more cayenne pepper. Also, consider experimenting with different types of sugar, like maple, for a unique sweetness. Always taste your seasoning mix before applying it to the steak; this way, you can adjust it to your liking.

Finally, remember that resting the cooked steak for a few minutes before slicing helps retain those delicious juices. Enjoy!