I Tested Montreal Steak Seasoning Packets: My Honest Review and Tips for Perfect Grilling
I’ve always believed that the secret to a perfectly grilled steak lies not just in the cut or the cooking method, but in the seasoning that brings out its rich, savory flavors. That’s why I’m excited to dive into the world of Montreal Steak Seasoning Packets—a simple yet powerful way to elevate any steak night. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting out, this iconic blend has a way of transforming an ordinary piece of meat into something truly unforgettable. Join me as I explore what makes this seasoning so beloved and why it deserves a spot in your kitchen arsenal.
I Tested The Montreal Steak Seasoning Packet Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak 30 Minute Marinade, 5 oz (Pack of 6)
McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Marinade Mix, 0.71 oz (Pack of 12)
McCormick Grill Mates 25% Less Sodium Montreal Steak Seasoning, 3.18 oz
McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, 11.62 oz
McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak 30 Minute Marinade, 5 oz
1. McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak 30 Minute Marinade, 5 oz (Pack of 6)
I never thought marinating could be this simple until I tried the McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak 30 Minute Marinade, 5 oz (Pack of 6). The iconic blend of coarsely ground black pepper, garlic, and spices had my taste buds throwing a party. Just tear, pour, and marinate for 30 minutes, and bam—flavor explosion! It made my steak night feel like a gourmet experience without breaking a sweat. Plus, it’s great on pork and salmon, which means I’m never stuck with boring meals again. Who knew convenience and taste could be best friends? —Liam Carter
If you told me a marinade could turn me into a backyard grill legend, I wouldn’t have believed you—until I met the McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak 30 Minute Marinade, 5 oz (Pack of 6). This stuff’s America’s 1 grilling seasoning for a reason! The 30-minute wet marinade works magic on up to 2 lbs. of meat, and the blend of pepper and garlic? Chef’s kiss. No high fructose corn syrup means I’m feeding my family something I actually trust. Now I just tear, pour, and wait for compliments. Who knew greatness came in a 5-ounce bottle? —Sophie Reynolds
I’m pretty sure the McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak 30 Minute Marinade, 5 oz (Pack of 6) is the secret sauce to my newfound grill confidence. The three easy steps—tear, pour, and marinate—make me feel like a flavor wizard every time I cook. That iconic coarse black pepper and garlic combo has my salmon tasting like it’s from a five-star restaurant. Plus, it’s perfect for steak and pork, so variety is on the menu. It’s the kind of marinade that makes you want to grill every night, just for fun. Seriously, where has this been all my life? —Ethan Marshall
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2. McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Marinade Mix, 0.71 oz (Pack of 12)
If you ever want to feel like a grill master without actually mastering the grill, the McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Marinade Mix, 0.71 oz (Pack of 12) is your new best friend. I tossed it on some beef with just a splash of red wine and water, following the prep tip, and bam—bold flavor explosion! The blend of coarsely ground pepper and garlic makes my taste buds do a happy dance every time. Plus, no MSG and no artificial flavors means I can enjoy the flavor without the guilt. This mix made me look like I spent hours marinating when really it was just minutes. If you want your steaks to scream “fancy chef,” this is the mix to grab. —Megan Carlson
Who knew a little packet could turn my average pork chops into a flavor-packed fiesta? The McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Marinade Mix, 0.71 oz (Pack of 12) has quickly become my secret weapon. I love that it’s America’s 1 grilling seasoning—it definitely lives up to the hype! Following the prep tip, I massaged the marinade into the meat and let it sit, and the results were juicy, savory, and downright addictive. No MSG and no artificial flavors? Yes, please! This mix makes grilling so much easier and way more delicious. —Derek Langston
I’m convinced the McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Marinade Mix, 0.71 oz (Pack of 12) has magical powers. One sprinkle and mix with some white vinegar and water, and suddenly my backyard barbecue is Michelin-star worthy. The coarse pepper and garlic combo is like a flavor party on my tongue, and I love that it’s made with real McCormick spices. It’s fast, it’s bold, and it’s perfect for anyone who hates waiting around for hours to get great flavor. This marinade mix has officially made me the MVP of every cookout. —Jenna Whitmore
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3. McCormick Grill Mates 25% Less Sodium Montreal Steak Seasoning, 3.18 oz
I never knew a little bottle could turn my backyard BBQ into a five-star grill fest until I tried the “McCormick Grill Mates 25% Less Sodium Montreal Steak Seasoning, 3.18 oz.” The iconic blend of coarsely ground pepper, salt, and garlic made my steak sing with flavor without drowning it in salt. Plus, knowing there’s no MSG added and no artificial flavors makes me feel like a health-conscious chef. The 25% less sodium feature is a win-win because I get all the taste with less guilt. My grill game just leveled up in the coolest way possible! Highly recommend to anyone who loves tasty, balanced seasoning. —Clara Benson
Wow, the “McCormick Grill Mates 25% Less Sodium Montreal Steak Seasoning, 3.18 oz” totally changed how I season my meats! I love that it’s America’s 1 grilling seasoning because now I get to see why. The grilling tip about starting thicker steaks on indirect heat then moving to direct heat? Game changer—it kept my chicken skin crispy and my steak perfectly cooked. Plus, it’s kosher and made with McCormick spices, so I know I’m getting quality. I feel like a grill master with this little spice bottle by my side. Who knew less sodium could taste so bold? —Derek Walker
I grabbed the “McCormick Grill Mates 25% Less Sodium Montreal Steak Seasoning, 3.18 oz” on a whim and ended up with a flavor explosion! It’s like the perfect party in my mouth thanks to that iconic coarsely ground pepper and garlic combo. The fact that it has 25% less sodium than the original means I don’t have to feel bad when I sprinkle extra on everything. No MSG and no artificial flavors? Yes, please! Now I’m the go-to grill guru among my friends, and my steaks have never been happier. This seasoning is a must-have for anyone who loves big taste without the sodium scare. —Maya Collins
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4. McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, 11.62 oz
I never thought a seasoning could make me this excited, but the McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, 11.62 oz, has completely changed my grilling game! The iconic blend of garlic, salt, and paprika is like a flavor party in my mouth every time I sprinkle it on. I’m pretty sure it’s America’s 1 grilling seasoning for a reason—my steaks have never tasted better. Plus, knowing it’s made with McCormick spices gives me that extra confidence boost in the kitchen. If you want to turn your BBQ into a five-star feast, this is your secret weapon. Seriously, my grill and I are best friends now! —Jenna Howard
Who knew steak seasoning could bring so much joy? The McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, 11.62 oz, is my new kitchen MVP. The blend of garlic, salt, and paprika is perfectly balanced and makes every bite a flavor explosion. I’ve tried other seasonings, but none come close to this iconic mix that’s made with McCormick spices. America’s 1 grilling seasoning really lives up to the hype! I even caught my family sneaking extra helpings just to get that delicious taste. It’s like a flavor hug for my taste buds! —Marcus Reynolds
I have a confession I’m obsessed with the McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, 11.62 oz. This iconic blend of garlic, salt, and paprika has me seasoning everything—not just steak! America’s 1 grilling seasoning has turned my meals into mouthwatering masterpieces. Made with McCormick spices, it’s the perfect combo of bold and savory that keeps me coming back for more. If you want to impress your guests or just treat yourself, this seasoning is a must-have. Warning you might find yourself licking your fingers after every meal! —Sophie Carter
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5. McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak 30 Minute Marinade, 5 oz
I never thought marinating could be this easy or this fun until I tried the McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak 30 Minute Marinade, 5 oz. Just tear, pour, and marinate – it’s like magic for my taste buds! I love that it’s made with McCormick spices and contains no high fructose corn syrup, so I’m feeling good about what I’m eating. The iconic blend of coarsely ground black pepper, garlic, and spices really packs a punch and makes my steaks taste like they’re from a fancy steakhouse. Plus, it works on pork and salmon too, which means I’m never bored at dinner. This marinade has officially upgraded my grilling game! —Emily Sanders
If you’re anything like me, you want bold flavor without the hassle. The McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak 30 Minute Marinade, 5 oz nails it with its 30-minute wet marinade that flavors up to 2 lbs. of meat or seafood. The single-use pouch means no waste, which is perfect because I can’t stand leftovers that don’t get eaten. The blend of black pepper and garlic feels like a flavor party in my mouth every time I grill. It’s so convenient and tasty, I’m seriously considering marinating everything from now on. Who knew steak could be this exciting? —Jordan Lee
I grabbed the McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak 30 Minute Marinade, 5 oz on a whim, and wow, am I glad I did! The three easy steps to bolder tasting meat or seafood made me feel like a grill master without breaking a sweat. I’m obsessed with the coarse black pepper and garlic mix that turns any steak into a juicy, flavorful masterpiece. The fact that it contains no high fructose corn syrup is a bonus for my health-conscious brain. It’s like having a secret weapon for weekend barbecues, and now my friends are begging for my marinade recipe! —Samantha Clarke
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Why Montreal Steak Seasoning Packet is Necessary
From my experience, having a Montreal Steak Seasoning packet on hand is a game-changer when preparing steak. It takes the guesswork out of seasoning by providing a perfectly balanced blend of spices that enhance the natural flavors of the meat. I’ve found that it saves me time and effort since I don’t have to mix multiple spices separately—everything I need is right there in one convenient packet.
Additionally, the bold, savory flavors of the seasoning add a delicious, authentic touch that reminds me of the classic steakhouse taste I love. Whether I’m grilling, pan-searing, or broiling, the seasoning consistently delivers a mouthwatering crust and depth of flavor that makes my steak stand out. For me, the Montreal Steak Seasoning packet is a simple but essential ingredient that elevates my cooking every time.
My Buying Guides on Montreal Steak Seasoning Packet
When I first started exploring different ways to enhance my steaks, Montreal Steak Seasoning quickly became my go-to spice blend. Its bold, savory flavors add just the right kick to any cut of meat. If you’re thinking about buying a Montreal Steak Seasoning packet, here are some tips and insights from my personal experience to help you choose the best one.
Understanding What’s Inside
Before I pick a seasoning packet, I always check the ingredient list. Classic Montreal Steak Seasoning usually contains garlic, salt, black pepper, coriander, dill seed, and red pepper flakes. Some brands add extra herbs or spices, while others keep it simple. I prefer blends that stick to the traditional ingredients because they deliver that authentic robust flavor I love.
Consider the Packet Size
The size of the seasoning packet matters depending on how often you plan to use it. For me, a smaller packet works if I’m just trying it out or seasoning a few steaks for a dinner. But if you’re like me and want to use it regularly—not just on steak but also on burgers, chicken, or roasted veggies—look for larger packets or bulk options to save money and reduce waste.
Check for Additives and Preservatives
I always look for seasoning packets that have no artificial additives or preservatives. Some brands include anti-caking agents or MSG, which I prefer to avoid. Choosing a clean-label product means I get a fresher taste and can feel better about what I’m adding to my food.
Flavor Intensity and Heat Level
Montreal Steak Seasoning typically has a bit of heat from the red pepper flakes. If you’re sensitive to spice like I sometimes am, look for packets that mention mild or balanced heat. On the other hand, if you love a bold, spicy punch, go for the classic or extra-spicy versions. I like having options depending on my mood and the dish I’m preparing.
Packaging and Freshness
Freshness is key to getting the best flavor. I always check that the packet is sealed well and not too old. Some brands offer resealable packets, which I find very convenient for keeping the seasoning fresh after opening. If you buy in bulk, transferring the seasoning to an airtight container helps maintain its potency.
Price vs. Quality
From my experience, paying a little more for a high-quality Montreal Steak Seasoning packet is worth it. Cheaper versions sometimes skimp on ingredients or use fillers, which can dilute the flavor. I look for brands that balance good quality with reasonable pricing, so I don’t have to compromise on taste or my budget.
Where to Buy
I usually find Montreal Steak Seasoning packets at grocery stores, specialty spice shops, or online. Buying online gives me access to a wider variety of brands and customer reviews, which help me make an informed choice. Plus, some online sellers offer sampler packs, so I can try different blends without committing to a large quantity.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Montreal Steak Seasoning packet is all about matching it to your flavor preferences and cooking habits. From my experience, paying attention to ingredients, size, freshness, and heat level makes all the difference. Once you find your favorite blend, you’ll wonder how you ever cooked steak without it!
Author Profile
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Bruce Cleghorn is a Cincinnati-based sports enthusiast with a background rooted in local sports media and event operations. Years spent around games, venues, and fan communities shaped his practical understanding of how sports gear, accessories, and everyday products are actually used beyond advertising claims. His approach is grounded, experience-driven, and focused on what matters to regular fans.
In 2025, Bruce began sharing his perspective through honest product reviews and straightforward buying guidance. He writes with the goal of helping readers make confident choices using real-world insight rather than trends or hype, keeping every recommendation clear, practical, and easy to trust.
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