Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the hearty, mouthwatering flavor of a perfectly cooked steak from Texas Roadhouse. Known for its savory, tender cuts and robust seasoning, Texas Roadhouse has become a beloved destination for steak lovers everywhere. But did you know you can recreate that same incredible dining experience right in your own kitchen? With the right combination of ingredients, preparation techniques, and a few insider tips, you can make a copycat Texas Roadhouse steak that’s just as juicy and flavorful as the restaurant version.
The History of Texas Roadhouse Steak Texas Roadhouse, founded in 1993 in Clarksville, Indiana, by Kent Taylor, quickly grew to become one of America’s most popular casual dining chains, specializing in hand-cut steaks, ribs, and other traditional Southern comfort foods. The brand’s dedication to high-quality meat, seasoned with a unique blend of spices and cooked to perfection, has become a hallmark of its success. The restaurant’s signature steaks are always fresh, never frozen, and hand-selected to ensure exceptional tenderness and flavor. The Texas Roadhouse seasoning blend is a closely guarded secret, but this copycat recipe captures the essence of their famous steak right down to the last detail.
Ingredients Breakdown
- Steak: Choose a high-quality cut such as ribeye, sirloin, or New York strip. Fresh, well-marbled beef is essential for a juicy, flavorful steak.
- Olive Oil or Butter: Used to help the seasoning adhere to the meat and add richness.
- Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the beef.
- Black Pepper: Adds heat and a slightly sharp bite.
- Paprika: Provides a warm, sweet note and contributes to the steak’s rich color.
- Garlic Powder: Brings a savory depth to the seasoning.
- Onion Powder: Complements the garlic and adds subtle sweetness.
- Brown Sugar: Balances the spices with a hint of sweetness, helping create a caramelized crust.
- Optional Spices: Cayenne pepper for heat, smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or thyme for a touch of herbal freshness.
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Prepare the Steak: Take the steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps it cook more evenly.
- Make the Seasoning Blend: In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and brown sugar. Mix well.
- Season the Steak: Rub the steak with olive oil or butter on all sides. Generously coat the meat with the seasoning blend, pressing it into the surface.
- Heat the Skillet or Grill: Use a cast-iron skillet or grill preheated to medium-high heat. Add a little oil or butter to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Steak: Place the steak on the hot surface and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or adjust the time according to your preferred doneness.
- Rest the Steak: Remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Serve: Slice against the grain and serve immediately for maximum tenderness.
Tips for the Perfect Steak
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and 150°F for medium-well.
- Always rest your steak after cooking to keep it juicy.
- Pat the steak dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect sear.
- Use a hot cooking surface to develop a flavorful crust.
- Baste the steak with butter and herbs during the final minute for added flavor.
Variations and Customizations
- Herb Butter Finish: Top the steak with a pat of garlic herb butter for extra richness.
- Marinades: Try marinating the steak with soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and balsamic vinegar for added depth of flavor.
- Different Cuts: Experiment with porterhouse or filet mignon for variety.
- Spice Adjustments: Customize the seasoning blend by adding cumin, coriander, or mustard powder.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value While steak is a great source of protein, iron, and essential vitamins like B12, it’s important to consider portion sizes and seasoning ingredients. Opt for leaner cuts like sirloin to reduce fat content, and use olive oil instead of butter for a healthier fat choice. Limit added salt to control sodium intake, and balance your meal with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad.
FAQ
- What is the best cut of steak for this recipe? Ribeye and sirloin are popular choices due to their tenderness and flavor.
- Can I use a regular frying pan instead of cast iron? Yes, but a cast-iron skillet retains heat better, creating a superior crust.
- How do I know when my steak is done? Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for your desired doneness.
- Can I use this seasoning for other meats? Absolutely! This blend works well with chicken, pork, and even roasted vegetables.
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Steak
Ingredients
- 2 lbs sirloin steak
- 1 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1 Tbsp salt
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic salt
- 1/2 tsp cornstarch
Instructions
- Place all the ingredients in a sealed ziplock bag. Seal the bag tightly and shake well to mix everything together.
- Generously coat each steak with the seasoning mixture on both sides.
- Allow the steak to rest with the seasoning for at least 40 minutes at room temperature to marinate.
- Preheat your grill to 400°F.
- Lightly spray or wipe the grill grates with oil. I prefer vegetable oil, but olive oil or canola oil also work well.
- Place the steaks on the hot grill and cook for 3-5 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness.
- Flip the steaks and grill for another 3-5 minutes, adjusting for your desired doneness.
- Remove the steaks from the grill and let them rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing or serving.