Steak ’n Shake Seasoning Recipe [Perfect for Steakburger]

My husband love steak burger but without the Steak ’n Shake seasoning it doesnt feel like the perfect backyard steak burger. This sunday we planned to have a backyard party with my busband friends.

But our steak burger seasoning jar is empty but hopefully i know how to recreate the Steak and Shake seasoning recipe at home within 5 minute. So i made the seasoning & it came out as perfect as the original one

This blend is what makes the Steakburger so special at Steak ’n Shake. The burgers came out so good that no one even missed the store-bought kind.

That’s when I knew this recipe was worth keeping. You should try it too, because once you taste how easy it is to recreate that famous flavor at home, you won’t bother buying it again.

What Is Steak ’n Shake Seasoning?

Steak ’n Shake seasoning is a spice blend made for the Steak n Shake signature burger. It gives the beef a bold, savory taste with a touch of smokiness and sweetness.

The mix usually combines salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and a little sugar. This seasoning brings out the natural flavor of the meat while adding depth to each bite.

It is most known for the Garlic Double Steakburger, where two patties are seasoned and cooked with this blend, then layered with garlic butter and cheese.

At home, you can use it on burgers, fries, chicken, or even vegetables to get that same diner-style taste.

Steak ’n Shake Seasoning Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons salt – Salt is the base of this seasoning. It wakes up the flavor of the beef and makes every bite taste fuller, juicier, and more satisfying without overpowering the other spices.
• 2 teaspoons sugar – A little sugar balances the salt and gives the mix a gentle sweetness. It helps round out sharp flavors and adds that subtle diner-style taste you notice in every Steakburger.
• 1 ½ teaspoons paprika – Paprika brings mild smokiness and a deep red color. It makes the seasoning look appealing and adds a rich warmth that works perfectly with the natural fat in beef patties.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper – Black pepper adds a sharp, warm bite that cuts through the richness of the meat. It gives balance, depth, and that bold kick every great burger seasoning should have.
• ½ teaspoon turmeric – Turmeric adds an earthy flavor and a golden hue to the mix. It’s subtle but noticeable, giving the seasoning a unique depth that separates it from plain burger spice blends.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder – Onion powder adds a savory flavor that reminds you of grilled onions. It blends smoothly into the meat and boosts that classic, diner-style taste without needing fresh onions.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Garlic powder is key for the iconic Steak ’n Shake flavor. It gives the mix a warm, slightly sweet savoriness that makes the burger taste rich and unforgettable.

How To Make Steak and Shake Seasoning

Step 1 – Gather & Measure Ingredients

Gather all your spices and Use standard measuring spoons to measure all the ingredients I listed above.

Step 2 – Mix Together

Take a small mixing bowl, add all the ingredients and mix thoroughly using a spoon or whisk. That’s it, the homemade version of steak n shake seasoning copycat is ready. Pour the mixed seasoning into a small jar or airtight container to use later.

Tips To Make Perfect Seasoning for Your Steak Burgers

Don’t skip the sugar – Sugar balances the salt and spices, giving the mix a smooth finish. Without it, the seasoning tastes sharp and less enjoyable.

Use fresh paprika – Fresh paprika adds bright color and rich flavor. Old paprika loses its punch, so using a fresh jar makes your seasoning shine.

Mix small batches – Smaller batches keep the spices lively and bold. Freshly mixed seasoning always tastes better than something sitting around too long.

Sprinkle before cooking – Seasoning the meat before cooking lets the flavors melt into the beef. Adding it after only coats the surface and misses the magic.

Store in a glass jar – A glass jar seals in freshness better than plastic. It protects the spices from air and light, keeping flavor strong longer.

Variations & Dishes To Make with This Seasoning

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper. It gives the mix a gentle heat that builds with each bite, perfect if you like a little fire in your food.
• Herby Twist – Stir in dried oregano or thyme. These herbs add a fresh, earthy note that blends well with beef and chicken, giving the seasoning more depth and balance.
• Smoky Style – Swap in smoked paprika instead of regular. The flavor becomes deeper, richer, and closer to that grill-kissed taste you’d get at a classic roadside diner.

Dishes To Make

• Burgers – I use this on patties before grilling, and it gives that bold, diner taste every time. The seasoning sinks into the meat and makes it juicy and rich.
• French Fries – A quick shake while the fries are still hot makes them irresistible. The mix clings to the oil and turns plain fries into something you can’t stop eating.
• Grilled Chicken – I love how this seasoning saves me from heavy sauces. A light coating on chicken before grilling makes it smoky, savory, and perfectly balanced.
• Roasted Veggies – Potatoes, carrots, even corn come alive with this mix. It brings warmth and a little kick, so vegetables taste like more than just a side dish.
• Steak – A sprinkle on both sides before cooking makes the beef shine. The spices highlight the meat’s natural flavor without hiding it under marinades or sauces.

How to Store the Seasoning

To keep your Steak ’n Shake seasoning fresh, transfer it into a clean, airtight glass jar. Store it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight or heat. Avoid plastic containers if possible, as they can let in moisture and affect flavor.

Proper storage keeps the spices bold and aromatic for months, so your seasoning always tastes just like fresh when you use it.

FAQs

What makes Steak ’n Shake seasoning different from other steak seasonings?

Its distinct blend balances savory, spicy, and aromatic elements specifically designed to complement the flavor profile of Steak ’n Shake’s steak burgers and fries. Unlike generic steak seasonings, it often includes dill seed and mustard for a unique flavor signature that sets it apart.

Can I use sea salt instead of table salt?

Yes, you can. Sea salt gives a slightly different texture and flavor, but both work well. If using coarse sea salt, crush it a bit so it blends evenly with the other spices.

How long does homemade Steak ’n Shake seasoning last?

It usually stays fresh for about 3–4 months if stored in a dry, airtight container. After that, it won’t spoil but the flavor may start to fade.

Can I skip the sugar?

Yes, but I don’t recommend it. Sugar balances the salty and smoky notes. Without it, the mix can taste a bit sharp. A small amount makes a big difference.

What meat works best with this seasoning?

I love it on ground beef burgers, but it also works well on steak, chicken, pork chops, and even turkey burgers. It’s a very flexible seasoning.

How much should I use on burgers?

I usually use about ½ teaspoon per burger patty. Sprinkle on both sides before cooking so the seasoning gets into the meat as it cooks.

Making your own Steak ’n Shake seasoning recipe at home is easier than you think, and the results are incredible.

Each sprinkle brings out the flavor in burgers, fries, or even roasted veggies. I love having a jar on hand for quick, flavorful meals. Give it a try this week.