Do Share Recipe

Best Steak Marinade Recipe – Juicy, Flavorful & Easy

I’ve tested countless best steak marinade recipe, but this one is hands down the winner. The moment that sizzling steak hits the grill, its intoxicating aroma fills the air and turns heads.

This marinade is not just about enhancing the taste; it’s about transforming an ordinary piece of meat into a tender, flavorful masterpiece. Every bite is a blend of rich herbs, zesty citrus, and hints of umami.

Discover how easy it is with this Steak Marinade No Soy Sauce Recipe.

Ingredients for Best Steak Marinade Recipe

½ cup olive oil
⅓ cup soy sauce
⅓ cup lemon juice
¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
3 tablespoons dried basil
1 ½ tablespoons garlic powder
1 ½ tablespoons dried parsley flakes
1 teaspoon ground white pepper
1 teaspoon dried minced garlic (optional)
¼ teaspoon hot pepper sauce (optional)

Note: This amount is enough to marinate about 4-6 large steaks. Adjust portions based on the number of servings.

Variations to Try

You can adapt this marinade to fit various flavor profiles or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas you might want to try:

Herby Boost: Substitute basil with fresh rosemary or thyme for a robust flavor.
Smoky Twist: Swap hot sauce with smoked paprika for an earthy kick.
Sweeter Note: Add a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar for subtle sweetness.
Citrus Swap: Use lime or orange juice instead of lemon for a tangy twist.
Garlic Lovers: Add roasted garlic instead of powdered for a deeper flavor.

If you’re looking for more delicious ideas, check out our dinner recipes.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marination Time: Minimum 2 hours (or overnight for best results)
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Equipment You Need

Mixing bowl: For preparing the marinade.
Whisk: To blend all the ingredients together.
Resealable plastic bag: Ideal for marinating the steak evenly.
Tongs: To flip and handle the steaks easily.
Grill or cast iron skillet: Perfect for searing and cooking.
Meat thermometer: To ensure your steak is cooked to the perfect doneness.

How to Make the Best Steak Marinade?

This recipe involves a few simple steps, but the results are exceptional. Here’s how to turn your steak into a gourmet dish!

Step 1 – Prepare the marinade

Start by blending all the ingredients. Combine olive oil, soy sauce, and lemon juice in a mixing bowl. Add Worcestershire sauce, dried basil, garlic powder, parsley, white pepper, and minced garlic (if using). Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well-emulsified. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference.

Step 2 – Marinate the steak

Place your steaks in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steaks and ensure all surfaces are coated. Press out any excess air before sealing the bag, then refrigerate. For thinner cuts like skirt steak, marinate for 2-4 hours, while tougher cuts like sirloin benefit from marinating overnight.

Step 3 – Cook the steak

Remove the steaks from the marinade and shake off any excess liquid. Preheat your grill or skillet to high heat. Place the steaks on the cooking surface and sear each side for about 4-5 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.

Step 4 – Rest the steak

Once cooked, transfer the steaks to a plate and allow them to rest for 5-10 minutes. This step ensures the juices redistribute evenly, keeping the meat flavorful and moist. Serve the steaks as they are, or slice them thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This marinade is a game-changer for all steak lovers. Here’s why it’s a staple in my kitchen:

Easy to Prepare: Takes just minutes to mix.
Versatile: Works with all types of steaks and even other proteins like chicken or pork.
Flavorful: A perfect balance of umami, tangy, and savory notes.
Customizable: Easily adaptable to suit different flavor preferences.

How to Serve the Best Steak Marinade?

A well-marinated steak deserves the perfect presentation! Here are some serving ideas for a complete dish.

Slice the steak thinly and serve it with fresh chimichurri sauce.
Pair with classic sides like garlic mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, or roasted veggies.
Place the steak over a green salad for a fresh, light meal.
Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly cracked pepper or flaky sea salt before serving.
Serve alongside a dollop of compound butter for that extra richness.

Spice up your healthy meals with our Steak Marinade Balsamic Vinegar Recipe.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the marinade per serving (excluding the steak):

Calories: 144
Protein: 2 grams
Carbohydrates: 5 grams
Fat: 14 grams

Make Ahead and Storage

Planning ahead? This marinade works wonderfully for prepping in advance.

Store the prepared marinade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you make a large batch, you can freeze the marinade in a freezer-friendly bag for up to two months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before using. Avoid reusing marinade that has already touched raw meat unless it’s been boiled to kill any bacteria.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are a few pro tips I’ve learned over time to perfect this recipe:

Don’t rush the marination: The longer, the better! Overnight marination enhances the flavors.
Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh lemon juice and garlic.
Balance the acid: If you find the marinade too tangy, add a teaspoon of honey.
Avoid overcooking: Invest in a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches your preferred doneness.
Rest is key: Never skip the resting phase post-cooking to retain those irresistible juices.

What Gives Steak the Best Flavor?

The secret to a flavorful steak is the balance of ingredients in the marinade. A good combination of acid (like lemon juice), salt (soy sauce or Worcestershire), and fat (olive oil) enhances the flavor and tenderizes the texture. Adding herbs and spices gives depth to the overall taste, creating layers of flavor in every bite.

What’s the Best Thing to Marinate a Steak?

The best marinade has three essential components. First, an acidic element like lemon juice, which tenderizes the meat. Second, a salty element like soy sauce to amplify the flavor. Lastly, fats like olive oil, which keep the steak moist during cooking. Together, these components work magic on your steak!

This marinade is all about simplicity, taste, and making your steaks unforgettable. With its rich flavors and versatility, it’ll quickly become your go-to recipe. Enjoy the compliments coming your way!

Ben Carraoli