Using herbs for steak can make all the difference in creating a restaurant-quality meal right at home!
Whether you’re grilling, pan-searing, or roasting, using the right herbs will enhance the rich, savory flavors of the meat.
Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or garlic can elevate your steak, bringing out its natural juices and adding depth to its taste.
For more ideas, check out our tips on using herbs and seasonings in your favorite recipes!
Experimenting with different combinations allows you to customize the flavor profile, ensuring your steak is unforgettable.
What are good herbs for steak?
There are several herbs that pair well with steak and can enhance its flavor.
A mix of these herbs can create an incredible herb crust with a dry steak rub, a homemade steak seasoning, or steak marinade, and they’re especially tasty when combined with a little olive oil, salt, and black pepper!
Rosemary
Rosemary is a classic herb that pairs perfectly with steak. It’s powerful flavor makes it a great option to use in marinades, rubs, and sauces for steak dishes.
Fresh rosemary adds an earthy flavor that compliments the richness of the meat well. To use rosemary, simply chop it finely and rub it over both sides of the steak before cooking. You can also mix rosemary with garlic and olive oil to make a marinade.
Thyme
With its light, lemony flavor, Thyme is another go-to herb that works well with the flavor of steak. It is often used in rubs or added to sauces. Thyme has a flavor that’s great for adding some zestiness to your steak dishes.
Thyme pairs especially well with sirloin steaks, as it helps bring out the natural sweetness of the beef. To use thyme, simply sprinkle it over both sides of the steak before cooking or mix it with olive oil or butter and pour over the top of the cooked steak just before serving. If you’re planning on using fresh thyme leaves for your rub or marinade, remember to remove them from the stem before cooking your steak.
Oregano
Oregano is another great herb for steaks! Its earthy flavor makes it perfect for grilled meats and fresh vegetables alike. Try mixing some minced oregano leaves in with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a simple marinade that will give your steaks an intense flavor boost!
Sage
Known for its slightly peppery flavor, Sage can add depth and complexity to steak dishes. It is often used in rubs or added to sauces. Sage’s bold flavor stands up nicely against the richness of beef and brings out subtle flavors in the meat that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Fresh Sage leaves are especially good when mixed into a delicious garlic herb butter that is melted over cooked steaks or rubbed directly onto steaks before grilling or roasting them.
Parsley
Parsley is one of those versatile herbs that goes with just about anything—including steak! It has a mild flavor that won’t overpower the beef yet still adds a bright note that complements the richness of the meat.
Try making a fresh parsley chimichurri sauce and serving it over grilled steaks for an extra kick of flavor!
What are the Best Herbs for Steak Recipes
Different cuts of steak pair beautifully with some of your favorite herbs to bring out their unique flavor profiles:
Ribeye – With its rich and juicy flavor, ribeye shines when paired with robust herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano. These strong herbs complement the steak’s boldness without being overshadowed.
Filet Mignon – The tender filet mignon pairs best with milder herbs like chives, tarragon, and parsley, which enhance its delicate flavor without overpowering it.
Sirloin – This leaner cut benefits from garlic, cilantro, and basil, adding a fresh, flavorful punch that complements its meaty taste.
Flank Steak – Perfect for grilling, flank steak is well-suited to herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage, which add depth and enhance its chewy texture.
NY Strip Steak – Rosemary, thyme, sage, and parsley bring out the rich flavors of a New York strip, making this cut even more satisfying.
No matter which cut you’re cooking, experimenting with these herbs can elevate your steak recipes to the next level.
While fresh herbs are optimal, dried herbs work well in marinades. Adjust quantities, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Rosemary and thyme are both great for steak: rosemary brings a bold, earthy flavor ideal for grilling, while thyme offers a milder, balanced taste that enhances the meat’s natural flavors. For a rich, aromatic boost, try using both together.
Be sure to also try these savory recipes! Start with the effortless Sheet Pan Steak & Potatoes, a one-pan meal that pairs perfectly with fresh herbs for incredible flavor. Or, dive into hearty Beef Dishes and Ground Beef Casseroles that’ll warm up any dinner table with rich, satisfying taste.
Want to expand your herb game beyond beef? Check out our guide on How to Use Herbs with Pork Chops for tips on pairing herbs with tender pork. Each of these recipes offers something a little different, so you’re sure to find a new favorite.
