Homemade Steak Marinade

The Secret to a Perfectly Grilled Steak

There’s nothing quite like a perfectly grilled steak, and the secret to making it truly mouthwatering? A killer homemade steak marinade! This marinade is my go-to for juicy, flavorful steaks that always turn out tender and delicious. It’s made with simple pantry staples, comes together in minutes, and works perfectly on everything from ribeyes to flank steaks.

Grilling season is in full swing at our house, which means that most nights, you’ll find us in the backyard with the smoky aroma of sizzling steaks filling the air. This homemade steak marinade is bold, zesty, and enhances the rich flavor of beef without overpowering it. It’s incredibly versatile—whether you’re making fajitas, steak salads, or a thick, juicy t-bone, this marinade is a game-changer.

Plus, it’s made with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. So grab your steaks, fire up the grill, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A great marinade needs a balance of flavors—savory, sweet, tangy, and a little bit of umami magic. Here’s what makes this one so incredible:

• Canola Oil – Keeps the steak moist, helps enhance the flavor, and prevents acidic flavors from overwhelming the meat. You can also use olive oil, sesame oil, mayo, or even buttermilk for a different twist.
• Soy Sauce – Acts as a natural tenderizer and enhances the savory flavors of the steak.
• Balsamic Vinegar – Adds a rich, slightly sweet flavor while working to break down tougher cuts of meat.
• Worcestershire Sauce – The ultimate flavor booster! Packed with vinegar, garlic, onion, and a touch of sweetness, it seeps deep into the meat for the perfect balance.
• Garlic – Freshly crushed garlic adds a subtle, aromatic richness.
• Dijon Mustard – Helps create a flavorful crust on the steak while locking in juices. You can also use a grainy brown mustard, honey mustard, or good ol’ plain yellow mustard.
• Brown Sugar – Balances out the tangy and salty flavors while adding a caramelized glaze when grilled.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor and breaks down muscle fibers for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

How to Make the Best Homemade Steak Marinade (Step-by-Step)

1. Prepare the Marinade – In a medium bowl, whisk together canola oil, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and kosher salt until well combined.
2. Marinate the Steak – Place your steak in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure it is well coated.
3. Refrigerate and Marinate – Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop in the fridge for at least an hour, but no longer than 5 hours if using vinegar. Flip the bag (or flip over the steaks in the dish) halfway through.
4. Preheat the Grill – Remove the steak from the marinade and let excess liquid drip off. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
5. Cook the Steak – Grill the steak to your desired doneness, flipping once halfway through cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for the perfect temp (135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium).
6. Rest and Serve – Remove from the grill and let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making every bite extra juicy. Enjoy!

How Long Should You Marinate Steak?

For the best results, marinate your steak for at least an hour, but no longer than 5 hours if your marinade contains acidic ingredients like vinegar. If you want to marinate overnight, leave out the balsamic vinegar to avoid breaking down the meat too much.

Can You Freeze Steak in Marinade?

Yep! Freezing steak in the marinade is a great way to meal prep and have dinner ready in no time. Here’s how:

1. Mix all marinade ingredients in a Ziploc freezer bag.
2. Add your steak and massage the bag to coat it evenly.
3. Double-bag to prevent leaks, then lay flat in the freezer.
4. Marinated steak will keep well for up to 6 months.