Easy Garlic Steak Marinade Recipe

There’s nothing quite like an easy garlic steak marinade to elevate your dinner game. This recipe is perfect for those who want to savor a flavorful steak without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a marinade that infuses your steak with bold garlic flavors, resulting in a juicy, tender masterpiece.
Growing up, my family always celebrated special occasions with a juicy steak dinner. I remember my grandmother’s kitchen filled with the aromatic scent of garlic and herbs. Her marinade recipe, handed down through generations, was the secret to our family’s astonishing steak dishes. Inspired by her, I crafted this easy version that keeps the flavor authenticity while saving time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out because it combines simplicity with fantastic flavor. The garlic marinade tenderizes the steak while infusing it with a rich, savory taste. This quick-to-prep marinade is versatile, applicable to various cuts of beef, and perfect for grilling, pan-searing, or even broiling. You’ll appreciate how this recipe turns an ordinary dinner into a gourmet experience.
Ingredients Notes
The key to this marinade’s success is fresh ingredients. Opt for fresh garlic, as it delivers a more robust flavor than garlic powder. If fresh rosemary or thyme is unavailable, dried herbs can be an excellent substitute. Choose a good quality steak for the best results; ribeye or sirloin work exceptionally well.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
In a mixing bowl, combine minced garlic, olive oil, soy sauce, and freshly chopped herbs. Whisk until well blended.
Step 2
Place your steak in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the garlic marinade over the steak, ensuring it is evenly coated.
Step 3
Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Let the steak marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor penetration.
Step 4
Remove the steak from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. This ensures even cooking.
WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
Step 5
Grill or pan-sear the steak to your desired doneness. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Storage Options
Store any cooked steak leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap the steak tightly in foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain tenderness and flavor.
Variations & Substitutions
If you follow a low-sodium diet, substitute tamari or low-sodium soy sauce. For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of chili flakes to the marinade. You might also experiment with different herbs, like oregano or basil, to create flavor variations.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or a hearty baked potato. It’s ideal for a summer barbecue or an elegant dinner party. Serve it alongside a glass of bold red wine to elevate the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this marinade for other meats? Absolutely. This marinade complements chicken and pork beautifully. Adjust marinating times based on the meat cut to ensure optimal flavor infusion.
How long should I marinate the steak? For the best results, marinate your steak for at least 2 hours. If time allows, marinate overnight in the refrigerator. This duration allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.
What cut of steak works best? Ribeye and sirloin are both excellent choices due to their balance of marbling and tenderness. However, this marinade is versatile enough to enhance less expensive cuts.
Crafting a memorable meal doesn’t have to be complicated. With this easy garlic steak marinade, you’ll bring a delicious and sophisticated touch to your table that your family and guests will adore. Whether it’s for a weekday dinner or a special gathering, this recipe promises satisfaction with every bite.

Easy Garlic Steak Marinade Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds flank steak or skirt steak
- 0.25 cup olive oil
- 0.25 cup soy sauce low sodium if preferred
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1.5 tablespoons garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic until well mixed.
- Add ground black pepper, salt, onion powder, and dried thyme to the mixture and stir until combined.
- Place the steak in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it is well coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for extra flavor.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
- Grill the steak for 6-7 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain and serving.