Ultimate Steak Marinade Recipe

The Ultimate Steak Marinade Recipe: Coffee & Cinnamon Infusion

Prepare to elevate your steak game with The Best Steak Marinade! This recipe boasts an unexpected yet delightful blend of savory, sweet, and tangy notes, guaranteeing a flavor explosion with every bite.

Perfectly cooked steak slices on a white platter with corn and mushrooms

As a dedicated “meat and potatoes” enthusiast, I believe that enjoying steak should be an experience. That means selecting the right cut, nailing the perfect internal temperature, and, most importantly, achieving an unparalleled depth of flavor. This marinade, a carefully calibrated combination of seemingly unconventional ingredients, delivers precisely that – a flavor powerhouse that complements any cut of beef you choose.

The secret to this steak marinade recipe lies in the surprising pairing of coffee and cinnamon. Yes, you read that right – coffee and cinnamon! These two ingredients, when combined with robust flavor enhancers like Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce, create a symphony of taste that will tantalize your taste buds.

Juicy steaks sizzling in a blue skillet with thyme and butter

Mastering the Art of Stovetop Steak Cooking

Achieving steak perfection on the stovetop is easier than you think! It all boils down to a proper sear and the age-old technique of butter basting. And if you’re a butter lover like me, be sure to try my cowboy butter recipe – it’s the ultimate steak topping!

To consistently cook flawless steaks on your stovetop, keep these key guidelines in mind:

  • Before cooking, always allow your marinated steak to reach room temperature. This ensures even cooking throughout.
  • Pat the steaks completely dry with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of a beautiful, crispy sear!
  • Ensure your pan is adequately preheated. A screaming hot pan is essential for optimal searing.
  • Place the steaks in the hot pan and resist the urge to move them. Allow them to cook undisturbed until they naturally release from the pan. This indicates that a proper sear has formed. Then, and only then, flip them.
  • Introduce butter to the pan, tilting it to pool the melted butter. Begin basting the steaks by spooning the hot butter over them repeatedly, infusing them with rich flavor.
Glass bowls filled with steak marinade ingredients

Decoding Steak Temperatures: Your Guide to Doneness

Whether you prefer your steak rare, medium-rare, or well-done, a reliable meat thermometer is your best ally in achieving consistent results every single time. Take the guesswork out of cooking steak and ensure it’s cooked to your exact preference.

It’s important to remember that the temperatures listed below are the final internal temperatures for each degree of doneness. Keep in mind the phenomenon of “carryover cooking,” where the steak continues to cook after it’s removed from the heat, typically increasing in temperature by around 10°F. Account for this when aiming for your desired level of doneness.

  • Rare: 120-130°F
  • Medium-Rare: 130-135°F
  • Medium: 135-145°F
  • Medium-Well: 145-155°F
  • Well: 155°F+
A perfectly cooked steak and corn plated with thyme

Grilling with Confidence: Adapting the Marinade for Your Grill

Absolutely! One of the great things about this steak marinade recipe is its versatility. It performs beautifully no matter your preferred cooking method – whether you’re searing on the stovetop, roasting in the oven, or grilling outdoors.

A skillet with juicy steaks, melting butter, and fresh thyme sprigs

A beautiful crust, my preferred medium-rare temperature, and a big, bold flavor – what more could you ask for? Just hand me a fork; I’m ready to dig in!

Slices of steak on a white platter, served over corn and mushrooms

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Main Course

The Best Steak Marinade

A surprising addition makes this recipe for The Best Steak Marinade the perfect balance of savory, sweet and tangy flavors.
Author: Kelly Senyei

5 from 2 votes
Slices of steak marinated in coffee and cinnamon
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes