The Best Easy Steak Marinade Recipe
Introduction
This easy steak marinade brings out rich, savory flavors with just a few simple ingredients. Perfect for top sirloin steaks, it tenderizes and adds a delicious depth that’s sure to please any grill lover. Ready in minutes and marinated anywhere from 20 minutes up to 8 hours, it’s a go-to for a quick yet impressive meal.

Ingredients
- ⅓ cup balsamic vinegar
- ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried mustard
- 2 pounds top sirloin steaks
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine the balsamic vinegar, low-sodium soy sauce, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, honey, Italian seasoning, and dried mustard in a gallon-size zipper bag or large bowl.
- Step 2: Add the steaks to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated, and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes or up to 8 hours for best flavor and tenderness.
- Step 3: Preheat a grill over medium-high heat to about 350-400°F. Make sure the grill is hot before placing the steaks on it to achieve a perfect sear.
- Step 4: Remove the steaks from the marinade and discard the marinade. Place the steaks on the hot grill.
- Step 5: Grill a 1-inch thick steak for 4-5 minutes per side for medium rare; for a steak 1½ inches thick, add 1-2 minutes per side to the cook time.
- Step 6: Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness: remove the steak at 130°F for medium rare, 140°F for medium, or 150°F for medium well.
- Step 7: Transfer the steak off the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to redistribute the juices for maximum juiciness.
- Step 8: Sprinkle coarse kosher salt or sea salt flakes over the steak and optionally garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For even more flavor, marinate the steaks overnight in the refrigerator.
- Use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme instead of Italian seasoning for a different herbal note.
- If you don’t have a grill, cook the steaks in a hot cast-iron skillet with a little oil for similar results.
- Adjust the honey amount if you prefer a sweeter or less sweet marinade.
Storage
Store any leftover cooked steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven to keep it tender and avoid drying out.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use this marinade for other cuts of beef?
Yes, this marinade works well with other cuts like ribeye, strip steak, or flank steak. Adjust marinating time based on the cut’s thickness and tenderness.
Do I need to discard the marinade after use?
Yes, always discard marinade that has been in contact with raw meat to avoid any food safety risks. Do not reuse it unless it has been boiled first.
PrintThe Best Easy Steak Marinade Recipe
This easy steak marinade combines balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, honey, and spices to create a flavorful and tenderizing soak for top sirloin steaks. Perfect for grilling, it delivers juicy, medium-rare steaks with beautiful sear marks and a delicious, savory taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes to 8 hours 25 minutes (including marinating)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Marinade
- ⅓ cup balsamic vinegar
- ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried mustard
Steak
- 2 pounds top sirloin steaks
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a gallon size zipper bag or large bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, low-sodium soy sauce, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, honey, Italian seasoning, and dried mustard. Mix well to blend all ingredients.
- Marinate the steaks: Add the top sirloin steaks to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Preheat the grill: Heat a grill over medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature between 350-400°F. Allow the grill to reach this temperature before adding the steaks to ensure perfect sear marks.
- Grill the steaks: Remove the steaks from the marinade and discard the marinade. Place the steaks on the hot grill.
- Cook to desired doneness: For a 1-inch thick steak, grill for 4-5 minutes per side for medium rare. For steaks 1½ inches thick, add 1-2 minutes extra per side. Use an instant-read thermometer to check internal temperature: 130°F for medium rare, 140°F for medium, and 150°F for medium well.
- Rest the steaks: Remove the steaks from the grill and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, enhancing juiciness and flavor.
- Season and garnish: Sprinkle coarse kosher salt or sea salt flakes over the steaks. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- Marinating time can range from 20 minutes to 8 hours depending on how intense you want the flavor.
- Discard used marinade to avoid any cross-contamination.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to achieve perfect doneness and prevent overcooking.
- Allowing the steak to rest after grilling is key for juicy results.
- Use fresh parsley as a garnish for added color and freshness if desired.
- Adjust cooking times depending on steak thickness and grill heat consistency.
Keywords: steak marinade, easy steak recipe, grilled steak, balsamic marinade, top sirloin steak, BBQ steak, summer grilling

