Go Back
Fork holding a slice of juicy medium-rare steak with melting herb butter, served with golden baby potatoes on a white plate

Steak Marinade

Ella
This steak marinade transforms tough cuts into tender, juicy, flavor-packed meals using simple pantry ingredients. It’s your go-to blend for weeknight dinners or summer cookouts.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Main
Cuisine American
Servings 2 servings
Calories 584 kcal

Ingredients
  

Base Mix

  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar the acid that helps tenderize
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce adds salt and deep flavor
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce brings out umami richness
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or any neutral oil you prefer

Seasoning

  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard adds sharpness and depth
  • 0.5 tsp garlic finely minced, about one large clove
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder or use garlic powder if needed
  • to taste freshly ground black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Mix the seasoning base: In a medium bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and onion powder to build the flavor foundation.
  • Add the liquids: Pour in balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and olive oil. Whisk again until smooth.
  • Prepare the steak: Place steak in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the meat, coating all sides evenly. Seal or cover.
  • Let it soak: Marinate in the fridge for at least 12 hours, ideally 24. Flip steak occasionally to keep coverage even.
  • Bring to room temperature: Remove steak from fridge 30 minutes before cooking for even heat distribution.
  • Heat your cooking surface: Brush grill grates or cast iron skillet with oil and heat until very hot and lightly smoking.
  • Cook the steak: For 2 cm thick steak, cook 2 minutes per side for medium rare. Use a thermometer to check doneness if needed.
  • Rest the steak: Transfer to a warm plate, loosely cover with foil, and rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  • Serve and enjoy: Slice and serve as-is or with a dollop of garlic butter for extra flavor.

Notes

Marinate for 12–24 hours for best results. Do not exceed 24 hours as the texture may turn mushy. For safety, never reuse marinade that has touched raw meat. Use tougher cuts like flank, skirt, sirloin, or London broil. Premium cuts don't need marinating. You can make the marinade ahead and refrigerate up to 3 days. It's also freezer friendly—add steak and marinade to a bag and freeze for future use.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving - 305g)

  • Calories: 584 kcal (29%)
  • Carbohydrates: 3.8g (1%)
  • Protein: 100.2g (200%)
  • Fat: 15.6g (24%)
  • Saturated Fat: 5g (31%)
  • Cholesterol: 248mg (83%)
  • Sodium: 687mg (30%)
  • Potassium: 963mg (28%)
  • Sugar: 2.1g (2%)
  • Vitamin C: 0.8mg (1%)
  • Calcium: 20mg (2%)
  • Iron: 9.4mg (52%)
Keyword Beef Marinade, Easy Steak Recipe, Grilled Steak, Pan-Seared Steak, Steak Marinade