Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This classic steak marinade is a foolproof way to enhance the flavor and tenderness of any cut of steak. With a balanced combination of acidic ingredients, oil, and aromatic herbs and spices, this marinade infuses the steak with rich, savory flavors while tenderizing the meat. Whether you’re grilling, pan-searing, or broiling, this marinade guarantees a juicy, flavorful steak every time.

Ingredients

¼ cup olive oil
¼ cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a medium bowl, whisk together all the ingredients until well combined.
Place your steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, and pour the marinade over it.
Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 12 hours for thicker cuts.
Remove the steak from the marinade, discard the marinade, and cook the steak to your desired doneness.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Total Time: 5-12 hours (includes marinating time)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: Varies depending on steak thickness and cooking method

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a bit of chili paste to the marinade.
Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley.
Citrus Twist: Replace vinegar with lemon or lime juice for a zesty flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the leftover marinade in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, but avoid reusing marinade that has touched raw meat.
Reheating: If you have leftover cooked steak, reheat it gently in the oven or on the stovetop to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

How long should I marinate my steak?

For the best flavor and tenderness, marinate steak for 30 minutes to 12 hours depending on the cut. Thicker cuts benefit from longer marinating.

Can I use this marinade for chicken or pork?

Yes, this marinade works great with chicken, pork, or even vegetables.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade and store it in the fridge for up to a week.

Is it necessary to discard the marinade?

Yes, discard the marinade after use because it has been in contact with raw meat, unless you plan to cook it for use as a sauce.

Can I marinate steak for more than 12 hours?

While it’s okay, marinating for too long may start to break down the meat too much, resulting in a mushy texture. Stick to the recommended marinating times.

What cuts of steak are best for this marinade?

Ribeye, sirloin, and New York strip are excellent choices for this marinade, but it works with all cuts.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, fresh herbs can be substituted at double the quantity of dried herbs.

How do I know when the steak is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check for the desired doneness. For medium-rare, it should read 130°F (54°C).

Can I use a grill to cook the steak?

Yes, grilling adds great flavor and char, perfect for marinated steaks.

Can I freeze the marinade for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the marinade for future use—just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating.

Conclusion

This classic steak marinade elevates any cut of steak, infusing it with deep flavors and ensuring a tender, juicy bite every time. Simple to prepare, it’s a perfect addition to your grilling repertoire. Whether you prefer a quick marinate or a long soak, this marinade guarantees a delicious steak experience every time.

Classic Steak Marinade

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This classic steak marinade is the perfect way to elevate your steak, infusing it with savory flavors and ensuring tender, juicy results. Made with a balanced blend of olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and aromatic herbs, this marinade is versatile and ideal for grilling, pan-searing, or broiling. Perfect for any cut of steak!

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10min
Total Time: 5-12 hours (includes marinating time)
Yield: 4servings
Category: Marinade, Main Dish
Method: Marinating
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

In a medium bowl, whisk together all the ingredients until well combined.
Place your steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, then pour the marinade over it.
Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 12 hours for thicker cuts.
Remove the steak from the marinade, discard the marinade, and cook the steak to your desired doneness.

Notes

For an extra spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or chili paste.
Experiment with fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley for a twist on the flavor.
Swap the balsamic vinegar for citrus juice like lemon or lime for a zesty flavor.