Heres our basic mix for steak seasoning that walks the line between Montreal-style and Chicago-style.

Whip it up at home youll find yourself reaching for it often.

Its both bold and understatedworking with the meat and never upstaging it.

Jar of Steak Seasoning Next to a Spoonful on the Counter

Simply Recipes / Jen Causey

Its fun to sprinkle on more than just steak, too!

What Is Steak Seasoning?

In a nutshell, its mostly salt with some spices and herbs mixed in.

Jar of Steak Seasoning on the Counter, and in the Background, a Raw Seasoned Steak and a Spoon With More Seasoning on a Cutting Board

Simply Recipes / Jen Causey

Dry rub is usually applied more liberally, while steak seasoning is used with more discretion.

The roots of this style of steak seasoning are an indirect path.

Montreal seasoningis indeed from Montreal, Canada, home of Montreal smoked meat.

Bowl of Steak Seasoning Next to Cutting Board With a Seasoned Raw Steak and a Spoonful of Steak Seasoning

Simply Recipes / Jen Causey

This cured and smoked beef brisket, similar to pastrami, is a beloved deli staple there.

Today, Montreal seasoning appears in plenty of variations.

And then theresChicago steak seasoning, another popular blend found in spice aisles across America.

Bowl of Spices Whisked Together

Simply Recipes / Jen Causey

This one is murkier as far as specific origins.

Chicago is famous for steakhouses, but the ingredients in Chicago steak seasoning vary quite a bit.

Visually, it tends to include more red spice (from mild red peppers) than Montreal seasoning.

Bowl of Steak Seasoning

Simply Recipes / Jen Causey

It hits those savory, umami notes with little lingering heat on the sides of the tongue.

If you dont have a scale, go by the specific volume measurements for the brand youre using.

Avoid using table salt or fine sea salt in this recipe.

Steak Seasoning in a Jar Next to the Jar Lid on the Counter

Simply Recipes / Jen Causey

Dont use fine garlic and onion powders (the very powdery white kind).

Choose the ones labeled granulated garlic or granulated onion.

These have a coarser, sandy texture that lets their flavor come through more in the seasoning.

Bowl of Steak Seasoning With a Spoon Next to Cutting Board With a Seasoned Raw Steak

Simply Recipes / Jen Causey

Transfer the seasoning to an airtight jar or container.

Store in a cool, dry place.

For the best flavor use within 6 months.

Sprinkle generously over steaks on all sides, using 1 tablespoon seasoning per 1 pound of steak.

Ideally, let the seasoned steaks rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.

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