Copycat Texas Roadhouse Steak Seasoning

Texas Roadhouse Steak Seasoning Ingredients

• Brown sugar
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper
• Smoked paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Chili powder.
• A touch of turmeric

As a dedicated BBQ enthusiast who's spent years perfecting restaurant-worthy recipes at home, I've tested dozens of variations to get this blend just right. This seasoning brings out the natural flavor of beef while creating that perfect savory crust whether your steak is grilled, smoked, or seared in a cast-iron pan. You can even use it on my popular Smoked Pork Chops!

Looking for the full steak recipe, not just the seasoning? Check out my Reverse-Seared Traeger Steak or Marinated Smoked Steak for the complete method.

If you love this Texas Roadhouse steak seasoning recipe, you'll also want to try my Smoked Pork Chops, Perfect Wagyu Steak, or Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon using the same blend!

Ingredients & Substitutions

Before we get to the step-by-step instructions, a few notes about the ingredients:

• Brown sugar: This ingredient creates an incredible caramelized crust when the seasoned steak hits the hot grill. You can also use raw sugar, maple sugar, or coconut sugar.
• Kosher salt: More than just adding flavor, salt helps tenderize the meat and lock in moisture. You can also use coarse salt or sea salt.
• Black pepper: Freshly ground provides the best taste with aromatic qualities that pre-ground simply can't match. But you can still use fine ground pepper if that's what you have.
• Smoked paprika: This gives a subtle smokiness that enhances the grilled flavor. It's one of my favorite spices for beef and adds beautiful color to the seasoning. If you don't have smoked paprika, you can make your own by combining 2 parts of regular paprika with 1 part of ground cumin. You can also use regular paprika.
• Garlic powder: A must-have in any steak rub, garlic powder provides that savory depth that makes steakhouse flavors crave-worthy. Granulated garlic or garlic flakes can be used as substitutes.
• Onion powder: Granulated onion or onion flakes will work as well.
• Chili powder: I love ancho chili powder or chipotle chili powder, but regular chili powder works too!
• Turmeric: My special addition! While not obvious in the final taste, turmeric adds gorgeous color and a subtle earthiness that elevates the entire blend.

Check the recipe card below for a complete list of ingredients and measurements.

How To Make Texas Roadhouse Steak Seasoning

Step 1: Combine Spices

Add brown sugar, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and turmeric to a small bowl. 

Step 2: Mix Thoroughly

Stir the mixture until all spices are evenly combined. You can also pour seasonings into a small glass jar, put the lid on, and give it a good shake until mixed. Break up any clumps of brown sugar for consistent flavor throughout.

Step 3: Store or Use

Transfer your finished seasoning blend to an airtight container, mason jar, or empty spice jar with a shaker-type top. Store for up to 2 months. This recipe makes about 2½ tablespoons, enough for 3-4 steaks. Double or triple the recipe as needed.

Perfect for Grilled Steaks

For the best flavor on any cut of steak, especially a well-marbled ribeye:

1. Pat your steak completely dry to remove surface moisture.
2. Drizzle with a light coating of olive oil.
3. Apply the seasoning generously to all sides, pressing it gently into the meat.
4. Let the steak rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
5. Season the steaks and cook them using your preferred recipe. Cook until you reach your preferred level of doneness using a meat thermometer (medium rare at 135°F creates that perfect warm red center).
6. Let your steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Best Cuts of Steak for This Seasoning

While this blend enhances any cut of meat, these are my favorite cuts of steak to pair with Texas Roadhouse seasoning:

• Ribeye: The rich marbling absorbs the flavors perfectly, and the brown sugar in the seasoning caramelizes wonderfully with the fat for incredible flavor.
• Filet Mignon: The mild flavor of filet benefits from this seasoning blend, which enhances without overwhelming the tender meat.
• New York Strip: Has a robust beef flavor that stands up beautifully to these spices.
• T-Bone/Porterhouse: Get the best of both worlds with these cuts that combine strip and tenderloin in one steak.

Can I use this Texas Roadhouse seasoning on other meats?

Absolutely! While designed for beef, this blend enhances the flavor of chicken, pork chops, and even hearty fish like salmon. The brown sugar creates beautiful caramelization on any protein.

How long will homemade steak seasoning last?

You can store leftover seasoning mixture in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 2 months. Keep it in the fridge for up to 6 months for longer storage.

Can I turn this into a marinade instead of a dry rub?

Yes - mix the seasoning with a few tablespoons of olive oil and a splash of Worcestershire sauce to make a wet rub or paste, then let the steak marinate for a few hours or overnight for deeper flavor.

What's the secret to Texas Roadhouse's steak flavor?

It's the balance of sweet and savory - brown sugar for caramelization, smoked paprika, and garlic for depth, and a touch of turmeric to add color and a subtle earthiness. Texas Roadhouse doesn't publish its exact formula, but this blend gets remarkably close.