If you love a bold, savory steak with a peppery crust and deep garlicky flavor, Montreal steak seasoning is one of the best spice blends you can keep in your pantry. This classic steakhouse seasoning is known for its coarse texture, big cracked pepper flavor, and garlicky saltiness that creates a perfect crust on grilled or pan-seared steak.
The best part? You can easily make homemade Montreal steak seasoning in minutes using simple spices you probably already have in your pantry. Making it yourself means you can control the salt level, avoid additives, and keep a fresh batch ready anytime steak night rolls around.
This homemade version is perfect for ribeye, sirloin, New York strip, burgers, roasted potatoes, chicken, and even grilled vegetables.
More Homemade Spice Mixes:
What Is Montreal Steak Seasoning?
Montreal steak seasoning originated in Montreal delis and steakhouses, where cooks used a mixture of cracked spices and salt to season thick steaks before grilling.
Traditional blends include:
- Coarse black pepper
- Garlic
- Coriander
- Dill
- Salt
- Red pepper flakes
The seasoning forms a flavorful crust when seared, creating that classic steakhouse flavor everyone loves.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick 5-minute recipe
- Uses simple pantry spices
- Better flavor than store-bought
- No additives or fillers
- Perfect for steaks, burgers, and vegetables
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons coarse kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons coarse ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon crushed coriander seeds
- 2 teaspoons dried dill
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon paprika
How to Make Montreal Steak Seasoning
- Add all spices to a small bowl.
- Stir until evenly combined.
- Transfer the seasoning to a small jar or spice container.
- Store in a cool, dry pantry.
The seasoning is ready to use immediately but becomes even more flavorful after sitting for a day.
How to Use Montreal Steak Seasoning
For steakhouse-style results:
- Pat steaks dry with paper towels.
- Generously sprinkle seasoning on both sides.
- Press the seasoning into the meat.
- Let steaks sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
Cook using your favorite method:
- Grilled steak
- Cast-iron seared steak
- Broiled steak
The seasoning forms an incredible savory crust when cooked at high heat.
Other Delicious Ways to Use It
This seasoning isn’t just for steak.
Try it on:
It’s also excellent mixed into compound butter for finishing steaks.
Montreal Steak Seasoning
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1/2 cup 1x
Description
This homemade Montreal steak seasoning is a bold and flavorful blend of coarse salt, cracked black pepper, garlic, coriander, dill, and spices. Perfect for steaks, burgers, chicken, and roasted vegetables, this classic steakhouse seasoning is easy to make with simple pantry spices.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons coarse kosher salt
2 tablespoons coarse ground black pepper
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon crushed coriander seeds
2 teaspoons dried dill
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
-
Add all of the spices to a small mixing bowl.
-
Stir well until the seasoning blend is evenly combined.
-
Transfer the seasoning to an airtight spice jar or container.
-
Store in a cool, dry pantry until ready to use.
Notes
For the most authentic Montreal steakhouse flavor, use coarse cracked black pepper and kosher salt rather than finely ground spices. This helps create the classic crust on steaks when grilled or seared.
You can also adjust the heat level by adding more red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 5 MINUTES
- Category: CONDIMENT, SEASONING, Spice
- Cuisine: American, STEAK
Storage Tips
Store homemade Montreal steak seasoning in an airtight spice jar or small mason jar.
- Pantry shelf life: 6–12 months
- Keep away from heat and light for best flavor.
Pro Tips for the Best Steak Seasoning
Use coarse spices
The classic texture of Montreal seasoning comes from cracked pepper and coarse salt.
Toast the coriander (optional)
Lightly crushing and toasting coriander seeds adds deeper flavor.
Adjust the heat
Add more red pepper flakes if you like a spicier blend.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between steak seasoning and Montreal steak seasoning?
Montreal steak seasoning has a distinct peppery and garlicky flavor with coriander and dill, giving it a unique deli-style steakhouse taste.
Can I make Montreal seasoning without salt?
Yes. Simply omit the salt and add salt directly to your steak when cooking.
Can I grind the spices finer?
You can pulse the mixture in a spice grinder, but traditional Montreal seasoning is coarse and chunky.
Final Thoughts
Once you make your own homemade Montreal steak seasoning, it’s hard to go back to store-bought blends. The bold peppery flavor, garlic punch, and aromatic spices create a perfect steakhouse crust every time.
Keep a jar in your pantry and you’ll always be ready for perfect grilled steaks, burgers, and roasted vegetables.
