If you’ve ever wondered how to recreate that rich, perfectly balanced flavor from one of the best steak experiences in town, look no further than the Morton’s Steakhouse Marinade Recipe. This simple yet masterful marinade has a harmonious blend of savory, tangy, and mildly spicy notes that transform any cut of steak into a juicy, tender masterpiece bursting with flavor. Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner or impressing guests at a weekend barbecue, this marinade brings the iconic steakhouse taste right to your home kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in building the complex layers of flavor that make the Morton’s Steakhouse Marinade Recipe so unforgettable. From fresh garlic to a pop of lime juice, every item is essential to achieving that perfect steakhouse bite.
- 6 garlic cloves, finely minced: Adds a fragrant depth and savory backbone to the marinade.
- 1 tsp dried whole thyme: Offers an earthy aroma and subtle herbal complexity.
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper: Provides just the right hint of heat to enliven the marinade.
- ½ cup soy sauce: Brings a salty, umami-rich dimension that tenderizes the meat and enhances flavor.
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce: Gives a tangy, slightly sweet savoriness that balances the marinade.
- 2 Tbsp vegetable oil: Helps the marinade coat the meat evenly and promotes a nice sear during grilling.
- ⅓ cup lime juice: Adds a refreshing acidity that breaks down muscle fibers for tender steak.
- 2 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all other flavors.
- 1 tsp black pepper: Offers a warm punch of spice that complements the garlic and cayenne.
- Steaks of your choice: Select your favorite cut—ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon all work beautifully with this marinade.
How to Make Morton’s Steakhouse Marinade Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Marinade
Start by combining all the marinade ingredients in a medium bowl. The minced garlic, thyme, cayenne, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, vegetable oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper should blend into a vibrant, aromatic liquid that smells as good as it tastes. This mixture is the flavor powerhouse for your steak.
Step 2: Marinate the Steaks
Place your steaks inside a large gallon-sized ziplock bag or a shallow dish if preferred. Pour in the marinade and make sure every inch of your steak is coated thoroughly. Seal the bag and refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours to let the flavors penetrate deeply and tenderize the meat.
Step 3: Prepare for Grilling
About an hour before you plan to grill, take the steaks out of the refrigerator. Letting them come to room temperature ensures even cooking and helps you achieve that perfect crust while retaining juiciness inside. Pat the steaks lightly with paper towels if necessary and get your grill ready.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Grill your marinated steaks over medium-high heat to your desired doneness. The marinade’s oil and acidity allow a beautiful sear, locking in moisture and flavor. Remember to turn the steak once to get those classic grill marks and even cooking.
How to Serve Morton’s Steakhouse Marinade Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few lemon wedges on the side adds a bright, fresh contrast to the hearty marinade. For extra flair, consider a pat of garlic herb butter melting slowly atop your hot steak—it’s an indulgent finishing touch that echoes the marinade’s garlic notes beautifully.
Side Dishes
Classic steakhouse accompaniments like creamy mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, or a crisp Caesar salad make wonderful partners to steaks prepared with the Morton’s Steakhouse Marinade Recipe. These sides keep the meal balanced, allowing the steak to be the star without overpowering its rich flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform your steak dinner into a special occasion by slicing the steak thin and serving it over garlic-infused crostini or atop a fresh arugula and Parmesan salad. This marinade’s robust flavor shines through in both traditional and inventive presentations, making it versatile for any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover steaks, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to three days. The marinade flavors intensify a little as the steak rests, making the cold cuts perfect for quick sandwiches or salads.
Freezing
You can freeze marinated steaks before cooking by sealing the ziplock bag tightly without excess air. Label the package with the date, and the steak will maintain its best quality for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for safe and easy cooking the next day.
Reheating
To reheat leftover grilled steak without drying it out, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of beef broth or water, covered, to preserve moisture. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it tends to toughen the meat and diminish the nuanced flavors from the Morton’s Steakhouse Marinade Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use this marinade for other meats?
Absolutely! While it’s designed with steak in mind, this marinade works wonderfully with pork chops, chicken breasts, or even firm fish like swordfish. Just adjust marinating times accordingly to avoid over-tenderizing.
How long should I marinate the steak for best results?
For optimal flavor and tenderness, 2 to 3 hours in the marinade is ideal. If you’re short on time, at least 1 hour still delivers tasty results, but avoid exceeding 6 hours to prevent the acid from breaking down the meat too much.
Is it necessary to bring the steak to room temperature before grilling?
Yes, allowing the steak to come to room temperature for about an hour helps it cook evenly and prevents the exterior from overcooking while the center remains underdone. It’s a simple trick for perfect grilling every time.
Can I make the marinade ahead of time and store it?
You sure can! Mix the marinade ingredients up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated in a sealed container. Just give it a quick stir before using to recombine any separated ingredients.
What cut of steak pairs best with the Morton’s Steakhouse Marinade Recipe?
While the marinade enhances any steak, cuts like ribeye, strip steak, or New York strip are fantastic choices because their marbling complements the bold flavors and tenderizing effect of the marinade.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about bringing restaurant-quality flavor into your own kitchen, and the Morton’s Steakhouse Marinade Recipe makes that more than possible — it makes it effortless and downright delicious. From its robust combination of spices and seasonings to the tender, juicy results, this marinade can turn any ordinary steak into a celebration of taste. So, grab your favorite cut, gather the simple ingredients, and get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with a steak dinner that’s packed with flavor and made with love.
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Morton’s Steakhouse Marinade Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes (grilling time may vary based on steak thickness)
- Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes (including marinating time)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Marinade
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
Morton’s Steakhouse Marinade is a flavorful and zesty blend perfect for enhancing the taste of steaks. Combining garlic, thyme, cayenne pepper, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, vegetable oil, lime juice, salt, and black pepper, this marinade tenderizes and infuses the meat with a savory kick, ideal for grilling. Marinate your steaks for a few hours and bring them to room temperature before cooking for the best results.
Ingredients
Marinade Ingredients
- 6 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 tsp dried whole thyme
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 Tbsp vegetable oil
- ⅓ cup lime juice
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Main Ingredient
- Steaks of your choice (6 servings)
Instructions
- Prepare Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine finely minced garlic, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, vegetable oil, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
- Marinate Steaks: Place your steaks inside a gallon-sized ziplock bag and pour the marinade over the meat. Seal the bag securely and refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate and tenderize the steaks.
- Bring to Room Temperature: Remove the marinated steaks from the refrigerator about one hour before grilling. This step ensures even cooking and better texture when grilled.
- Grill Steaks: Grill the steaks over your preferred heat level until desired doneness is reached. Remove from grill and let rest before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Notes
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity according to your spice preference.
- Marinate steaks for at least 2 hours but no more than 4 hours to avoid overpowering the meat’s natural flavor.
- Bringing steaks to room temperature before grilling helps achieve even cooking.
- This marinade pairs well with various cuts of steak such as ribeye, sirloin, or New York strip.
- For a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey to the marinade.
