9 Best New York Steak Seasonings of 2026

If you’re after a bold, no-nonsense steakhouse punch that delivers every time, the McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning is a grilling essential with a cult-like following for good reason. This coarse blend of garlic, salt, paprika, and cracked pepper sticks aggressively to meat, forming a deeply flavorful crust that elevates even budget cuts to backyard gourmet status. It solves the all-too-common problem of bland, under-seasoned steaks by packing serious savory depth in just one shake—perfect for those who want maximum flavor with minimal effort.

In real-world testing, this seasoning shines on New York strips and ribeyes seared over high heat, where its coarse texture caramelizes beautifully without burning. The 11.62 oz bottle offers ample capacity for frequent grillers, and a little goes a long way—1 tablespoon per pound of meat is all you need. While it performs best on beef, it also works well on chicken thighs and portobello mushrooms. However, the high sodium content may be a drawback for health-conscious users, and the flavor profile leans heavily on salt, which can overshadow more delicate cuts if overapplied.

Compared to gourmet or low-sodium alternatives like Chicago Steak Company or the reduced-sodium Grill Mates version, this one wins on consistent boldness and availability, though it sacrifices nuance. It’s ideal for weeknight warriors and grill enthusiasts who prioritize speed and flavor over dietary tweaks. While not the most refined option, its performance-to-price ratio crushes most mid-tier blends, making it a staple that outshines pricier, niche contenders in sheer reliability.

For health-focused carnivores who refuse to sacrifice grill-day excitement, the McCormick Grill Mates 25% Less Sodium Montreal Steak Seasoning is a smart compromise between flavor and wellness. This isn’t just a salt-light knockoff—it retains the iconic garlicky, peppery backbone of the original, using coarsely ground spices that cling well and build a satisfying sear on steaks. It directly addresses the pain point of sodium-heavy rubs without resorting to artificial substitutes or bitter salt replacements, making it a trustworthy ally for those managing blood pressure or following heart-healthy diets.

During testing, it performed admirably on thicker cuts like bone-in ribeyes, especially when using a two-zone grill method to avoid flare-ups. The 3.18 oz shaker is compact—great for travel or small kitchens—but refills come fast if you’re grilling for a family. It creates a rustic, textured crust, though slightly less intense than the full-sodium version, requiring a heavier hand for the same impact. Still, it delivers a clean, savory kick without MSG or artificial flavors, and the Kosher certification adds to its clean-label appeal.

When stacked against the full-sodium Montreal or gourmet options like Portland Salt Co., this blend trades some flavor intensity for dietary safety, making it best for low-sodium lifestyles, not flavor maximalists. It’s a standout for home cooks managing health goals without ditching the grill. While it doesn’t match the depth of premium blends, its accessibility and trusted profile make it a reliable pick where wellness and taste must coexist.

Turn up the heat—literally—with this fire-kissed, smoky-spicy rub that redefines what a New York steak seasoning can be. The bold fusion of chili powder, cumin, black pepper, and smoked paprika delivers a slow-building heat that enhances, not overwhelms, the natural beefiness of a well-marbled strip. Unlike one-note heat bombs, this blend layers aromatic coriander, oregano, and garlic for a complex, restaurant-quality depth that mimics high-end steakhouse rubs. It’s engineered for those who crave adventure on their plate and want their seasoning to do more than just salt.

In real grilling trials, it excelled on flank and skirt steaks, where its spicy-savory profile penetrated deeply, especially when used as a dry rub before searing. The low sodium, gluten-free, and zero-carb formula makes it ideal for keto and clean-eating diets, and it performs just as well on burgers, roasted veggies, or smoked brisket. The 4.5 oz jar offers decent volume, and the clean label—no fillers, no preservatives—means every ingredient pulls its weight. Still, the heat level might intimidate milder palates, and it’s less effective on delicate fish or poultry.

Compared to the milder McCormick or Chicago Steak Company blends, this one prioritizes boldness and dietary flexibility over universal appeal. It’s perfect for spice lovers and health-savvy grillers who want heat with integrity. While it doesn’t have the name recognition of legacy brands, its flavor innovation and clean profile outclass many mainstream options, offering a gourmet edge without the premium markup.

There’s a reason this blend feels like it belongs behind the pass of a five-star steakhouse—it’s built on a generational recipe that values balance, depth, and meat enhancement over brute-force seasoning. The Chicago Steak Company Seasoning doesn’t scream for attention; instead, it elevates the natural juiciness and tenderness of a high-quality cut with a subtle, herb-laced harmony of garlic, onion, and aromatic spices. It’s the antidote to over-seasoned, one-dimensional rubs, crafted for purists who believe the steak should shine—just with a little refined, gourmet polish.

In practice, it works best on dry-aged or premium-grade steaks, where its delicate yet distinct profile complements rather than masks. Used as a light rub before pan-searing or grilling, it develops a golden-brown crust with a whisper of herbal warmth. It’s also surprisingly versatile—equally at home on roasted vegetables or grilled salmon. However, its subtlety can get lost on heavily marbled or gamey meats, and the 3 oz bottle depletes quickly for frequent users. There’s no heat to speak of, which may disappoint those craving punch.

Against bold contenders like Hi Mountain or the spicy blend, this one trades intensity for sophistication, landing closer to a French bistro than a Texas smokehouse. It’s ideal for gourmet-focused cooks and date-night grilling, where elegance trumps aggression. While pricier than mass-market options, its refined character justifies the cost for discerning palates, outclassing basic blends in nuance if not in volume.

If your idea of the perfect steak lives somewhere between a cowboy campfire and a luxury ranch kitchen, the Hi Mountain Western Style Seasoning delivers rugged, unapologetic flavor with frontier flair. This blend packs a savory wallop with a robust mix of garlic, pepper, and earthy spices designed to stand up to gamey meats like venison, elk, and well-exercised beef cuts. It’s not just for steaks—its versatility makes it a go-to for wild game, ribs, and pork chops, where bold seasoning is non-negotiable.

Real-world testing showed it excels on ribeyes and flank steaks, forming a deep, crusty sear when grilled over open flame. The 7.4 oz shaker is one of the largest in its class, offering excellent value for serious meat eaters. It adheres well, especially when applied generously before smoking or grilling. That said, it can be overpowering on delicate proteins like chicken breast or fish, and the flavor leans heavily on salt and pepper, leaving less room for subtlety. Still, for those who want big, rustic taste in every bite, it’s hard to beat.

Compared to the refined Chicago blend or the spicy gourmet mix, Hi Mountain favors boldness and versatility over finesse. It’s best suited for hunters, outdoor grillers, and fans of game meat who need a seasoning that can handle tough, rich flavors. While it lacks the low-sodium or keto appeal of newer blends, its generous size and meat-first design make it a workhorse, outperforming smaller, more specialized rubs in sheer utility.

Don’t let the modest size fool you—this teen-founded brand packs a surprising punch with a New York Steak blend that balances authenticity, quality, and social purpose in one compact jar. The seasoning delivers a clean, well-rounded profile with a hint of garlic, pepper, and herbal brightness, designed to enhance rather than dominate. It’s a refreshingly honest rub—no fillers, no artificial junk—just high-quality spices that taste like they were blended with care, not mass-produced for shelf life.

In testing, it performed reliably on pan-seared strip steaks and burgers, creating a light crust with even flavor distribution. The option to choose mild, medium, or spicy heat levels lets users customize their experience, a rare perk in this category. While the 3 oz jar won’t last heavy grillers long, the premium ingredient list justifies the density. It’s not the spiciest or saltiest, but it’s one of the most thoughtfully crafted—especially for those who value ethical sourcing and youth entrepreneurship.

Stacked against giants like McCormick or gourmet labels like Portland Salt Co., State Street stands out for character and conscience, not sheer power. It’s ideal for home cooks who care about brand story and clean ingredients, especially those supporting small businesses. While it doesn’t dominate in volume or heat, its balanced flavor and mission-driven model offer a compelling alternative, especially at its wallet-friendly price.

When you’re feeding a crowd—or just refuse to run out mid-grill season—the 28 oz bulk version of McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning is a game-changer for value and convenience. This isn’t just more of the same—it’s the same bold, garlicky, peppery punch scaled up for serious grillers, tailgaters, and meal-preppers who go through seasoning by the fistful. Its coarse texture ensures maximum crust formation, and the no-MSG, gluten-free formula keeps it accessible for most diets.

Real-world use proves it’s perfect for batch-rubbing multiple steaks, briskets, or weekly meal prep, with enough volume to last months even in heavy-use homes. The large shaker bottle is durable and easy to store, and 1 tablespoon per pound guidance makes dosing foolproof. It performs identically to the smaller versions—excellent sear, strong adhesion, deep flavor—but its size makes it ideal for outdoor events or commercial-style cooking. The only downside? It’s heavy and takes up more pantry space than smaller bottles.

Compared to the 11.62 oz version, this one offers clear bulk savings without sacrificing quality. Against gourmet or niche blends, it wins on availability and consistency, not sophistication. It’s best for frequent grillers and families who want reliability in bulk. While it doesn’t offer low-sodium or spicy twists, its sheer capacity and proven performance make it the ultimate workhorse, outlasting and outperforming smaller, pricier alternatives in long-term value.

For purists who believe less is more, the Portland Salt Co. SPG Seasoning (Salt, Pepper, Garlic) is a masterclass in minimalist excellence. Sourced from Pacific sea salt, this blend delivers a clean, savory foundation that enhances meat without clutter—perfect for those who want control over their rub without artificial additives. It’s not flashy, but it’s thoughtfully crafted, with a texture that adheres well and dissolves evenly during cooking, avoiding the chalky aftertaste of cheap salts.

In testing, it shined on dry-aged New York strips, where its simplicity allowed the beef’s natural umami to dominate. The 4 oz jar is compact but sufficient for precision seasoning, and the non-GMO, clean-label promise appeals to ingredient-conscious cooks. It’s not designed for heavy rubs or spicy profiles, but as a base layer or finishing touch, it’s exceptional. However, those seeking bold or complex flavors may find it too restrained, and it lacks the herbal depth of more layered blends.

Versus the Chicago Steak Company or Hi Mountain, this one prioritizes purity over complexity, making it ideal for minimalist chefs and salt connoisseurs. It’s perfect for finishing steaks or building custom rubs, not replacing them. While it doesn’t offer heat or bulk, its premium sea salt base and clean profile justify its place, especially when compared to blends loaded with fillers—proving sometimes, the best seasoning is the one you barely notice.

Imagine the rich, golden sizzle of butter basting a steak—without the calories or mess. That’s the magic of Dan-O’s Outlaws Butter Steak Seasoning, a flavor illusionist that delivers buttery depth through a masterful blend of garlic, onion, citrus peel, and all-natural sea salt. It’s not just for steaks—this seasoning transforms veggies, chicken, and burgers into indulgent dishes with zero sugar and zero calories, making it a guilt-free flavor bomb for health-focused eaters.

In real use, it excels when used as a dry rub before pan-searing, where it develops a golden, aromatic crust that smells like buttered steakhouse perfection. The 6.9 oz bottle offers solid capacity, and the kosher, non-GMO formula appeals to clean-label fans. It’s especially effective on grilled corn or roasted potatoes, adding richness without fat. However, the butter flavor is artificial to some palates, and it doesn’t replicate the mouthfeel of real butter—just the taste.

Compared to spicy or gourmet blends, Dan-O’s specializes in richness, not heat or complexity. It’s ideal for low-carb, keto, or calorie-conscious cooks who miss decadent flavors. While it doesn’t replace a true herb-garlic butter, its versatility and zero-fluff formula make it a kitchen secret weapon, outperforming many all-purpose seasonings in flavor impact per calorie.