If you’ve ever picked up a bottle of “Prime Steak Seasoning” at the store, you know it can cost $8–$10 for a small jar — and honestly, most of that price is packaging and branding. The good news? You can make your own at home for under $2 using simple pantry spices you probably already have.
This homemade Prime Steak Seasoning mix tastes just like the expensive steakhouse blends — bold, salty, garlicky, and a little smoky — and you can tweak it to suit your taste. It’s perfect for ribeyes, sirloins, or any cut you want to make feel like a high-end steakhouse meal without paying restaurant prices.
Makes: about ½ cup (enough for 6–8 steaks)
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons coarse kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper (freshly cracked if possible)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika if you prefer milder)
- 1½ teaspoons brown sugar (optional, helps with crust)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (crushed)
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients together in a small bowl until well combined.
- Store in an airtight jar or spice shaker for up to 6 months.
- To use, pat your steaks dry and coat generously on both sides with the seasoning about 30–60 minutes before grilling or searing. Let them rest at room temperature before cooking to allow the salt to penetrate.
Tips:
- For a true steakhouse crust, brush steaks with a light coat of oil before seasoning.
- If you’re reverse-searing or using cast iron, skip the sugar to avoid burning.
- Add a bit of coffee grounds or ground mustard if you like a bold, earthy flavor like some top steakhouse rubs use.

