That frustrating moment when your perfectly cooked air-fried steak ends up bland or unevenly seasoned is finally addressed by the right spice blend. Having tested dozens, I can tell you that the secret lies in a seasoning that pairs bold flavor with the right texture, especially for high-heat cooking like air frying. The McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, 28 oz, stood out because its coarse texture creates that craveable crust and delivers robust, savory flavor without artificial additives or MSG.
This seasoning balances garlic, salt, and paprika with a coarse grind that helps seal in juices and builds flavorful crusts on steak and veggies alike. It’s easy to apply, provides great value with a large size, and holds up through multiple uses—more than enough to become your go-to for air fryer steaks. After thorough comparison, it offers the best combination of texture, flavor, and size, making it the ideal choice for any home grill master or air frying enthusiast.
Top Recommendation: McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, 28 oz
Why We Recommend It: This product’s coarse texture creates a perfect crust, essential for air-fried steaks. Its balanced blend of garlic, salt, and paprika delivers a bold flavor without artificial ingredients. The generous size of 28 oz offers great value, and the no MSG, gluten-free formula ensures clean eating. Its ability to produce a flavorful, crusted steak makes it superior to more finely ground or less robust options.
Best steak seasoning for air fryer: Our Top 5 Picks
- McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, 11.62 oz – Best for Grilling
- McCormick Grill Mates Sweet & Tangy Seasoning 2.9 oz – Best for Versatile Flavor
- Weber Chicago Steak Seasoning, 13 oz – Best for Outdoor BBQ
- McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning 3.18 oz – Best for Pan-Frying
- McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, 28 oz – Best Value for Steak Seasoning
McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, 11.62 oz
- ✓ Rich, bold flavor
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✓ Versatile for various dishes
- ✕ Coarse texture can be overpowering
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Ingredients | Garlic, salt, paprika, spices |
| Net Weight | 11.62 oz (329 g) |
| Brand | McCormick Grill Mates |
| Flavor Profile | Savory, smoky, garlicky |
| Usage Recommendations | Suitable for grilling, air frying, and seasoning steaks |
| Packaging Type | Shaker container |
Opening the jar of McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, I immediately notice its robust aroma, a bold mix of garlic, paprika, and salt that screams flavor. As I sprinkle it generously over a thick-cut steak, I can already tell this isn’t your average seasoning—there’s a noticeable richness that hints at a truly flavorful bite.
Once I pop the steak into the air fryer, the magic begins. The seasoning sticks well, thanks to its coarse texture, and the smell intensifies as it cooks.
After just a few minutes, I’m greeted with a beautifully browned, crusty exterior that’s bursting with savory aroma.
Taking my first bite, I’m impressed by how evenly the flavors come through. The garlic and paprika give a smoky, slightly sweet kick that balances beautifully with the salt.
It’s a no-fuss seasoning that elevates simple cuts without overpowering them.
What I really like is how versatile it is. It works great on other meats, veggies, or even tofu.
Plus, the 11.62 oz jar lasts a good while, making it a handy staple in my spice rack. The blend feels authentic and consistent, which is key for everyday grilling.
On the downside, the coarse grind can sometimes be too much if you prefer a more subtle seasoning. And at around $7.24, it’s still a bit pricier than some generic spices, but the quality makes up for it.
Overall, this seasoning genuinely enhances the air-fried steak, delivering bold flavor every time. It’s a reliable, flavorful choice that turns simple meals into something special.
McCormick Grill Mates Sweet & Tangy Seasoning 2.9 oz
- ✓ Bold, flavorful seasoning
- ✓ Coarse texture for crust
- ✓ Versatile use
- ✕ Coarse spice texture
- ✕ Might be too intense for mild dishes
| Main Ingredients | Sweet molasses, mustard seed, paprika, soy sauce, garlic, natural smoke flavor |
| Texture | Coarser spice granules for crust formation |
| Net Weight | 2.9 oz (82.2 grams) |
| Recommended Usage | 1 to 2 tablespoons per 1 pound of meat |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet and tangy with smoky and savory notes |
| Packaging Type | Shaker container for easy dispensing |
This little jar of McCormick Grill Mates Sweet & Tangy Seasoning has been on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I love adding a bold twist to my air-fried steaks and veggies. When I finally got my hands on it, I immediately noticed how it packs a punch with its coarser texture, which is perfect for creating that mouthwatering crust.
The aroma alone got me excited—sweet molasses mixed with smoky paprika and a hint of garlic. I sprinkled about a tablespoon onto some chicken breasts before air frying, and I loved how the spices seeped into the meat, sealing in flavor.
The seasoning’s texture helps form a nice crust, giving that satisfying bite every time.
What really surprised me was how versatile it is. I used it on pork, seafood, and even roasted vegetables, and each time it added a layer of irresistible flavor.
The balance of sweet and tangy makes it stand out from typical seasonings, giving my dishes that extra zing without overpowering them.
Cleanup was easy, and the flavor held up well even after cooking. It’s a budget-friendly option that elevates everyday meals into something special.
Whether you’re grilling outside or using your air fryer, this seasoning really helps bring out the best in your ingredients.
If I had to find a tiny downside, it’s that the larger spice grains might not be for everyone—they can sometimes be a bit coarse for delicate cuts of meat. But overall, this seasoning has become a go-to for me when I want a quick flavor boost.
Weber Chicago Steak Seasoning, 13 oz
- ✓ Bold, balanced flavor
- ✓ Versatile for many dishes
- ✓ MSG & gluten free
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Can be overpowering if used too much
| Ingredients | Pepper blend, garlic, onion |
| Net Weight | 13 oz (368 grams) |
| Dietary Features | No MSG, Gluten-Free, Kosher |
| Recommended Uses | Steak, burgers, pork chops, ribs, grilled vegetables, baked potatoes |
| Brand | Weber |
| Flavor Profile | Peppery, savory, balanced with garlic and onion |
As I tore open the bottle of Weber Chicago Steak Seasoning, I immediately noticed the bold, peppery aroma that filled the air. I sprinkled it generously over a thick ribeye I had waiting in the fridge, curious to see if it would live up to its reputation.
The first thing I loved was how evenly the seasoning coated the meat. It wasn’t clumpy or overly heavy — just a perfect, balanced sprinkle of garlic, onion, and that signature pepper blend.
When I cooked the steak in my air fryer, the seasoning stayed put and created a mouthwatering crust.
During the cooking process, I could smell the savory notes intensify, hinting at a deeply flavorful bite. Once cooked, the steak had a nice kick of pepper with a savory depth that made every bite feel like a restaurant-quality experience.
I also tried it on grilled vegetables, and it added just the right punch without overpowering.
What really surprised me was how versatile this seasoning is. I used it on burgers, pork chops, and even mixed it into butter for a quick bread topper.
Plus, knowing it’s MSG-free and gluten-free gives me peace of mind. It’s become my go-to for elevating simple meals into something special.
Overall, Weber Chicago Steak Seasoning delivers on its promise of bold, savory flavor. It’s easy to use, smells fantastic, and works across a variety of dishes.
Honestly, it’s a game-changer for anyone wanting restaurant-quality taste at home — especially in the air fryer!
McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning 3.18 oz
- ✓ Bold, flavorful blend
- ✓ Less sodium than original
- ✓ No artificial flavors
- ✕ Might need extra garlic
- ✕ Coarse grind can be messy
| Main Ingredients | Coarsely ground pepper, salt, garlic |
| Net Weight | 3.18 oz (90 grams) |
| Sodium Content | 25% less sodium than original Montreal Steak Seasoning |
| Dietary Certifications | Kosher |
| Flavor Profile | Savory, spicy, with a robust pepper and garlic blend |
| Artificial Additives | No artificial flavors, no MSG added |
Ever spent ages seasoning your steak only to find it sticking to the air fryer basket or unevenly flavored? That frustration melts away when you dust this McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning on your meat.
The coarse grind of pepper, salt, and garlic gives a satisfying texture and bold flavor that hits just right.
What I love is how versatile this spice blend is. Whether you’re cooking thick cuts or thin steaks, starting with this seasoning makes a noticeable difference.
It adds a savory punch without overpowering, and the 25% less sodium is a real bonus for health-conscious cooks.
Applying it before air frying, I found that it adheres well without clumping or falling off. The seasoning helps create a beautiful, flavorful crust that’s not overly salty.
Plus, the no MSG and artificial flavor-free promise gives peace of mind.
One thing to note—if you prefer a more intense garlic punch, you might want to supplement it. But overall, it’s a straightforward, reliable way to elevate your steak game with minimal fuss.
The 3.18 oz bottle lasts surprisingly long, making it a great value for frequent grillers.
Using this seasoning with the recommended indirect-to-direct heat method, I avoided sticking and got even cooking every time. It’s a simple upgrade that makes your air-fried steaks taste restaurant-quality.
McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, 28 oz
- ✓ Bold, savory flavor
- ✓ Coarse texture for crust
- ✓ No artificial ingredients
- ✕ Can be salty if overused
- ✕ Coarse texture might not suit all tastes
| Net Weight | 28 oz (794 grams) |
| Flavor Profile | Bold, savory, with coarse texture for crust formation |
| Usage Recommendations | Shake onto steak, pork, or vegetables before grilling |
| Dietary Attributes | No MSG added, no artificial flavors, gluten free |
| Serving Suggestion | 1 tablespoon per 1 pound of meat |
| Brand | McCormick Grill Mates |
As soon as I sprinkled the McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning onto my steak, I was impressed by its coarse texture. You can really see the chunks of pepper and spices, which create a beautiful, craveable crust when you cook it.
It’s like giving your meat a flavor-packed armor before hitting the grill or air fryer.
The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water. It’s bold, savory, with just the right hint of spiciness without being overwhelming.
When you cook with it, the seasoning sticks well, forming a delicious crust that enhances every bite. I found that using about a tablespoon per pound of meat was perfect—no need to overdo it.
Applying this seasoning before air frying transforms a simple steak into something restaurant-worthy. It’s versatile too—great on pork, chicken, or even roasted veggies.
I also appreciate that it contains no MSG, artificial flavors, and is gluten-free, making it a clean choice for many diets.
One thing I noticed is that the coarse texture means you get a bit of crunch with each bite, which adds a nice contrast to the tender meat. Plus, the jar is large—28 oz—so I have plenty to keep on hand for multiple cookouts or weekly meals.
It’s a straightforward way to elevate your grilling game without complicated marinades or fuss.
Overall, this seasoning hits all the right marks for flavor, texture, and versatility. It’s become my go-to for air fryer steaks, and I love how it consistently delivers that bold, savory profile I crave.
Just be careful not to use too much—less is definitely more to avoid overpowering your meat.
What Is the Best Steak Seasoning for Air Frying?
In terms of benefits, using the best steak seasoning for air frying can lead to healthier meals since air frying typically requires less oil than traditional frying methods. This allows for a lower-calorie dish without compromising on flavor. Additionally, pre-made steak seasoning blends can save time and effort in the kitchen, making meal preparation more convenient for busy individuals.
Best practices include experimenting with different herb and spice combinations to find a personalized blend that suits individual taste preferences. Additionally, users should consider marinating the steak in the seasoning for a few hours or overnight for deeper flavor penetration. Keeping the seasoning simple and using high-quality ingredients can also enhance the final dish, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor.
What Ingredients Should Be Included in the Best Steak Seasoning for Air Fryer?
The best steak seasoning for air fryer typically includes a blend of spices and herbs that enhance the flavor of the meat without overpowering it.
- Salt: Salt is essential in any seasoning mix as it enhances the natural flavors of the steak, helping to tenderize the meat while also drawing out moisture which can create a nice crust when air frying.
- Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds a sharp, pungent flavor that complements the richness of the steak, providing a well-rounded taste that balances the seasoning.
- Garlic Powder: Garlic powder imparts a savory depth to the seasoning, offering a subtle nuttiness that pairs beautifully with beef and adds an aromatic quality without the moisture of fresh garlic.
- Onion Powder: Similar to garlic powder, onion powder contributes a sweet and slightly tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste profile of the steak, adding complexity to the seasoning mix.
- Paprika: Paprika not only brings a vibrant color to the steak but also adds a mild sweetness and subtle smokiness, depending on whether you choose sweet, smoked, or hot paprika.
- Brown Sugar: A touch of brown sugar can balance the savory components of the seasoning, providing a hint of sweetness that caramelizes during air frying, resulting in a delicious crust.
- Herbs (like thyme or rosemary): Dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary bring an aromatic and earthy flavor to the mix, enhancing the steak’s natural flavors and adding a touch of freshness.
- Cayenne Pepper (optional): If you enjoy a bit of heat, cayenne pepper can be added to the seasoning blend to provide a spicy kick that elevates the flavor profile and adds depth to the dish.
How Do Key Herbs and Spices Enhance Steak Flavor?
Key herbs and spices play a vital role in enhancing the flavor of steak, especially when using an air fryer.
- Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds a rich, savory depth to steak dishes. Its concentrated flavor enhances the meat’s natural umami, making it a staple in many steak seasoning blends.
- Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper provides a pungent, spicy kick that complements the meatiness of steak. It not only enhances flavor but also adds aroma, making it essential in both marinades and rubs.
- Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika introduces a subtle sweetness and a hint of smokiness, which mimics the flavor of grilling. This spice can elevate the taste profile, especially for air-fried steaks, by adding complexity without overpowering the meat.
- Onion Powder: Onion powder contributes a mild sweetness and a savory base note that rounds out the flavor of the steak. It blends well with other spices and helps create a well-balanced seasoning mix.
- Thyme: Thyme offers an earthy, herbal note that pairs beautifully with beef. Its aromatic qualities enhance the overall flavor profile, making it a popular choice for steak seasoning.
- Rosemary: Rosemary has a distinct pine-like fragrance that adds a robust flavor to steak. Its strong aromatic quality makes it effective in small amounts, adding a gourmet touch to any seasoning blend.
- Cayenne Pepper: For those who enjoy heat, cayenne pepper brings a spicy kick that elevates the flavor profile of steak. Its heat can be adjusted according to personal preference, making it versatile for various tastes.
- Brown Sugar: Brown sugar provides a touch of sweetness that helps to caramelize the steak during cooking, especially in an air fryer. This sweetness balances the savory spices while contributing to a beautiful crust on the meat.
What Role Does Salt Play in Enhancing Steak in the Air Fryer?
Salt plays a crucial role in enhancing the flavor and texture of steak when cooked in an air fryer.
- Flavor Enhancement: Salt is a natural flavor enhancer that brings out the inherent taste of the steak. It helps to balance and amplify the savory, umami flavors, making the steak more enjoyable to eat.
- Moisture Retention: When salt is applied to the surface of the steak, it initially draws out moisture, but then helps to reabsorb it during cooking. This process aids in keeping the steak juicy and tender, especially when cooked quickly in an air fryer.
- Crust Formation: Salt contributes to the Maillard reaction, which is responsible for browning and creating a delicious crust on the steak. This reaction occurs when the steak is exposed to high heat in the air fryer, leading to a flavorful exterior.
- Seasoning Balance: Salt can help to balance other seasonings, making the overall flavor profile of the steak more complex. When combined with spices and herbs, salt helps them to shine and ensures a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Cooking Time Control: Salt can also affect the cooking time by altering the moisture content of the steak. A well-salted steak may cook more evenly in the air fryer, leading to better texture and doneness.
How Can You Make Your Own Perfect Steak Seasoning for Air Fryer?
Creating the best steak seasoning for an air fryer involves combining various spices and herbs to enhance the flavor of the meat.
- Salt: A fundamental ingredient, salt enhances the natural flavors of the steak and helps in tenderizing the meat. It is essential to use a good quality sea salt or kosher salt to achieve the best results.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a spicy, earthy note to the seasoning mix. It complements the salt and enhances the overall taste of the steak, making it more flavorful.
- Garlic Powder: Garlic powder provides a rich, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with beef. It adds depth to the seasoning, making the steak more aromatic and appetizing.
- Onion Powder: Similar to garlic powder, onion powder contributes a sweet and savory profile to the mix. It balances the flavors and adds a subtle sweetness that complements the richness of the steak.
- Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika introduces a smoky flavor to the seasoning, which is particularly great for air frying where you may miss the traditional grill taste. It adds color and a touch of sweetness, enhancing the overall appeal of the steak.
- Brown Sugar: Adding a bit of brown sugar can create a nice caramelization on the steak when cooked in the air fryer. The sweetness balances the savory spices and helps to create a delicious crust.
- Herbs (such as thyme or rosemary): Dried herbs like thyme or rosemary infuse the steak with an aromatic flavor profile. They add freshness and complexity, enhancing the overall taste without overpowering the meat.
- Cayenne Pepper or Chili Powder: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, cayenne pepper or chili powder can be included in the mix. This spicy element can elevate the seasoning and provide an exciting kick to each bite.
What Are the Benefits of Using Store-Bought Steak Seasoning for Air Fryer?
The benefits of using store-bought steak seasoning for air frying include convenience, consistency, and flavor enhancement.
- Convenience: Store-bought steak seasonings are pre-mixed and ready to use, saving you time and effort in measuring and mixing individual spices.
- Consistency: Using a commercial blend ensures that you achieve a consistent flavor profile every time you cook, as the ratios of spices are standardized and tested for optimal taste.
- Flavor Enhancement: Many store-bought seasonings are crafted to complement the natural flavors of steak, often including ingredients like garlic, onion, and various herbs that enhance the overall taste of the meat.
- Variety: There is a wide range of steak seasonings available in stores, allowing you to experiment with different flavor profiles, such as spicy, smoky, or herbaceous, to find the one that suits your taste best.
- Accessibility: Store-bought seasonings are easy to find in grocery stores, making it simple to replenish your supply without the need to stock a large variety of spices at home.
Which Brands Are Recommended for Their Quality and Flavor?
Some of the best brands recommended for their quality and flavor in steak seasoning for the air fryer include:
- McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning: This popular seasoning features a robust blend of garlic, coriander, black pepper, and red pepper that enhances the natural flavors of beef. It is known for its versatility, making it suitable for not just steak but also burgers and roasts.
- Lawry’s Seasoned Salt: A staple in many kitchens, Lawry’s offers a savory mix of salt, sugar, and various spices that create a rich flavor profile. Its fine texture allows for even distribution on steak, ensuring every bite is seasoned perfectly.
- Traeger Grills Beef Rub: Infused with a smoky blend of spices, this rub is particularly formulated for grilling and smoking but works excellently in an air fryer. It includes ingredients like garlic, onion, and sea salt, which combine to create a mouthwatering crust on steaks.
- Stubbs Beef Marinade: Known for its natural ingredients, Stubbs offers a marinade that packs a flavorful punch with a mix of spices, vinegar, and a hint of sweetness. While it can be used as a marinade, it also works well as a seasoning for air-fried steak for those who enjoy a more complex taste.
- Badia Complete Seasoning: This all-purpose seasoning is a blend of spices that complements meats beautifully, including steak. Its mix of garlic, paprika, and other spices provides a well-rounded flavor that enhances the overall taste without overpowering the meat.
How Should You Apply Seasoning to Steak Before Air Frying for Best Results?
The best steak seasoning for air fryer involves a few key components that enhance flavor and tenderness.
- Salt: Salt is essential for drawing out moisture and enhancing the natural flavors of the steak. It should be generously applied to both sides of the meat, allowing it to sit for at least 30 minutes before cooking to develop a more flavorful crust.
- Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds a sharp, pungent kick that complements the richness of the beef. A moderate amount is typically sufficient, and it can be adjusted according to personal taste preferences.
- Garlic Powder: Garlic powder provides a robust, savory depth to the seasoning mix. It is a popular choice as it easily adheres to the surface of the steak and infuses its flavor during the cooking process without being overpowering.
- Onion Powder: Onion powder adds a mild sweetness and a hint of earthiness to the seasoning. Like garlic powder, it mixes well with other spices and enhances the overall flavor profile without being overly intrusive.
- Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika introduces a subtle smokiness that mimics the flavor of grilled steak. It also adds a vibrant color to the crust, making the steak visually appealing while contributing to its taste.
- Herbs (like thyme or rosemary): Fresh or dried herbs can elevate the steak’s flavor by adding aromatic notes. Sprinkling finely chopped fresh herbs or dried versions can create a more complex taste that pairs beautifully with beef.
- Olive Oil: A light coating of olive oil helps the seasoning stick to the steak while promoting even browning in the air fryer. It also contributes to the overall moisture of the meat, preventing it from drying out during cooking.
How Can the Right Steak Seasoning Improve Your Overall Air Fryer Experience?
The right steak seasoning can significantly enhance the flavor and texture of your steak when cooked in an air fryer.
- Salt: Salt is a fundamental seasoning that elevates the natural flavors of the meat. It helps to draw out moisture and enhance the overall taste, making it a critical component in any steak seasoning blend.
- Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds a spicy kick and complexity to the flavor profile of the steak. It pairs beautifully with salt and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences, offering a warm, aromatic quality that enhances the overall dining experience.
- Garlic Powder: Garlic powder imparts a rich, savory depth to the seasoning mix. Its concentrated flavor works well in an air fryer, where the high heat can bring out the sweetness and umami of garlic, creating a delightful crust on the steak.
- Onion Powder: Onion powder contributes a subtle sweetness and aromatic flavor that complements the meat. It can enhance the overall seasoning blend without overpowering the steak, providing a balanced taste that works well with other spices.
- Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a unique smoky flavor that mimics the taste of grilled meat. This seasoning can create a delicious char-like taste that is especially appealing when using an air fryer, which may not provide the same smoky flavor as traditional grilling.
- Herbs (e.g., thyme, rosemary): Fresh or dried herbs can introduce a fragrant element to your steak. Thyme and rosemary are particularly popular choices, as their earthy notes pair well with beef, enhancing the overall aroma and flavor of the dish.
- Cayenne Pepper: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, cayenne pepper can add a spicy kick to your steak. Just a pinch can elevate the dish, providing a contrast that excites the palate while still allowing the meat’s flavor to shine through.
- Brown Sugar: Incorporating a touch of brown sugar can create a caramelized crust on the steak when cooked in an air fryer. The sugar balances the savory flavors while contributing a hint of sweetness that enhances the overall taste profile.