Steak Seasoning Blend: The Ultimate Guide to Flavorful Steaks

Taco Salad Bowl: Forget everything you thought you knew about salads! This isn’t just a pile of lettuce; it’s a vibrant, flavorful fiesta in a bowl, guaranteed to banish boring lunches and lackluster dinners forever. Imagine crispy tortilla chips, seasoned ground beef, creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and a zesty dressing all mingling together in perfect harmony. Are you drooling yet?

While the exact origins of the Taco Salad Bowl are debated, its roots are firmly planted in the American Southwest, a delicious fusion of Tex-Mex flavors. It’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and bold spices, reflecting the region’s rich culinary heritage. Think of it as a deconstructed taco, offering all the familiar flavors in a fun and customizable format.

So, why is this dish so beloved? It’s simple: the Taco Salad Bowl is incredibly satisfying. The combination of textures – crunchy chips, tender meat, and crisp vegetables – is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily adapt it to your dietary needs and preferences, swapping out ingredients to create a vegetarian, vegan, or low-carb version. And let’s be honest, who can resist a meal that’s both delicious and easy to prepare? Get ready to experience a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs Boneless Ribeye Steak, about 1.5 inches thick
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 2 tablespoons Steak Seasoning Blend (recipe follows)
• 1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 sprig Fresh Rosemary
• 1 sprig Fresh Thyme

Steak Seasoning Blend:

• 2 tablespoons Coarse Sea Salt
• 1 tablespoon Black Peppercorns, freshly cracked
• 1 tablespoon Granulated Garlic
• 1 tablespoon Onion Powder
• 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
• 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
• 1 teaspoon Dried Rosemary, crushed
• ½ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions:

Preparing the Steak Seasoning Blend:

1. First, let’s make our steak seasoning. This blend is what will give our ribeye that incredible crust and flavor. In a small bowl, combine the coarse sea salt, freshly cracked black peppercorns, granulated garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, crushed dried rosemary, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined. I like to use a small whisk to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
3. Store any leftover seasoning blend in an airtight container at room temperature. It will keep for several months!

Preparing the Steak:

1. Crucial Step: Take the ribeye steak out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes, and preferably an hour, before cooking. This allows the steak to come to room temperature, which helps it cook more evenly. If the steak is too cold, the outside will cook much faster than the inside, resulting in an unevenly cooked steak.
2. Pat the steak dry with paper towels. This is another important step! Removing excess moisture allows the steak to sear properly and develop a beautiful crust.
3. Generously season both sides of the ribeye with the steak seasoning blend. Don’t be shy! You want a good coating of seasoning on all surfaces. Gently press the seasoning into the steak to help it adhere.

Cooking the Steak:

1. Heat the olive oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron is ideal) over high heat. You want the skillet to be screaming hot before you add the steak. A hot skillet is essential for achieving a good sear.
2. Once the oil is shimmering and almost smoking, carefully place the seasoned ribeye steak in the hot skillet.
3. Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes on the first side, without moving it. Resist the urge to peek or move the steak around! You want to allow a nice crust to form.
4. Flip the steak and sear for another 3-4 minutes on the second side. Again, don’t move it around.
5. Now, reduce the heat to medium. Add the unsalted butter, minced garlic, rosemary sprig, and thyme sprig to the skillet.
6. Tilt the skillet slightly and use a spoon to baste the steak with the melted butter, garlic, and herb mixture. This basting process adds flavor and helps to keep the steak moist. Continue basting for another 2-3 minutes.
7. To check the steak for doneness, use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding any bone. Here are the target temperatures for different levels of doneness:
   • Rare: 125-130°F
   • Medium-Rare: 130-135°F
   • Medium: 135-145°F
   • Medium-Well: 145-155°F
   • Well-Done: 155°F+ (I don’t recommend cooking ribeye to well-done, as it can become tough)
8. Once the steak reaches your desired internal temperature, remove it from the skillet and place it on a cutting board.

Resting and Serving:

1. The most important step: Let the steak rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. If you skip this step, all the juices will run out when you slice the steak, leaving you with a dry and less flavorful piece of meat.
2. While the steak is resting, you can prepare any side dishes you like. Some great options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
3. After the steak has rested, use a sharp knife to slice it against the grain. Slicing against the grain shortens the muscle fibers, making the steak easier to chew.
4. Serve the sliced ribeye steak immediately. You can drizzle any pan juices over the steak for added flavor. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Ribeye:

• Choose the Right Cut: Look for a ribeye steak that is well-marbled with fat. The marbling is what gives the ribeye its rich flavor and tenderness.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re cooking more than one steak, make sure you don’t overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature of the oil and prevent the steak from searing properly. Cook the steaks in batches if necessary.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure that your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness. Don’t rely on guesswork!
• Don’t Be Afraid of the Sear: A good sear is essential for developing flavor and creating a beautiful crust on the steak. Make sure your skillet is hot enough and don’t move the steak around while it’s searing.
• Rest, Rest, Rest: I can’t stress enough how important it is to let the steak rest before slicing. This is the key to a tender and juicy ribeye.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize the steak seasoning blend to your liking. You can add other spices, such as chili powder, cumin, or coriander. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as oregano or parsley.
• Pan Sauce Variation: After removing the steak from the pan, you can deglaze the pan with a splash of red wine or beef broth to create a simple pan sauce. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan and simmer until the sauce has thickened slightly.
• Reverse Sear Method: For an even more tender and evenly cooked steak, consider using the reverse sear method. This involves cooking the steak at a low temperature in the oven until it reaches your desired internal temperature, then searing it in a hot skillet to develop a crust.
• Dry Brining: For an even more flavorful steak, try dry brining it. This involves salting the steak generously 12-24 hours before cooking. The salt will draw out moisture from the steak, which will then be reabsorbed, resulting in a more tender and flavorful piece of meat.
• Consider the Thickness: The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your steak. A thicker steak will require a longer cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with roasted asparagus and garlic mashed potatoes.
• Pair with a classic Caesar salad.
• Enjoy with a glass of bold red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.
• Top with a pat of compound butter (garlic herb butter is a great choice).
• Serve alongside grilled corn on the cob.

Enjoy your perfectly cooked ribeye steak! I hope these tips help you create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! This homemade steak seasoning blend is truly a game-changer. I know, I know, there are tons of steak seasoning recipes out there, but trust me on this one. The carefully balanced combination of smoky, savory, and slightly sweet notes elevates any cut of beef to restaurant-quality deliciousness. It’s not just about throwing a bunch of spices together; it’s about creating a symphony of flavors that perfectly complements the richness of the steak.

Why This Steak Seasoning Blend is a Must-Try

Honestly, the biggest reason to try this recipe is the sheer flavor explosion. It’s so much better than anything you can buy pre-made at the store. You control the ingredients, ensuring freshness and avoiding any unwanted additives or excessive salt. Plus, the satisfaction of creating something so delicious from scratch is incredibly rewarding. I’ve been using this blend for years, and I can’t imagine grilling a steak without it. My family raves about it every single time!

But beyond the amazing taste, this recipe is also incredibly versatile. While it’s obviously fantastic on steak (ribeye, New York strip, flank steak – you name it!), don’t limit yourself. I’ve used it to season burgers, chicken, pork chops, and even roasted vegetables with fantastic results. A sprinkle on roasted potatoes before they go in the oven? Divine! A dash on scrambled eggs? Unexpectedly delicious! The possibilities are truly endless.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Speaking of versatility, let’s talk about serving suggestions and variations. For a classic steak dinner, I love pairing a perfectly seasoned steak with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus. A simple salad with a vinaigrette dressing also provides a nice contrast to the richness of the meat. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using the steak seasoning blend as a rub for a slow-cooked brisket. The smoky flavors will penetrate deep into the meat, creating a truly unforgettable barbecue experience.

And don’t be afraid to experiment with the recipe itself! If you prefer a spicier blend, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. For a sweeter flavor, increase the amount of brown sugar. If you’re watching your sodium intake, reduce the amount of salt or use a salt substitute. The beauty of making your own seasoning blend is that you can customize it to perfectly suit your taste preferences. You could even add dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for a more complex flavor profile. A little smoked paprika can also kick up the smokiness.

Your Turn to Create Steak Magic!

I truly believe that this steak seasoning blend will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and endlessly versatile. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your spices, mix them together, and get ready to experience steak like never before!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and discover the magic for yourself. Once you do, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? What was your favorite cut of steak to use it on? Share your thoughts and photos in the comments below! Let’s create a community of steak-loving foodies who appreciate the power of a perfectly seasoned piece of meat. Happy grilling!