Before testing this, I never realized how much a good seasoning could elevate grilled meats. I’ve tried many, but when I used the McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, 11.62 oz, I finally understood what I was missing. The blend of garlic, salt, and paprika creates a robust flavor that forms a perfect crust every time, making my steaks stand out. It’s straightforward to shake on before grilling, and the taste genuinely impressed me even on simpler cuts.
Compared to larger or more complex blends, this one strikes the ideal balance—easy to use, bold enough to flavor, and made with McCormick’s quality spices. It’s versatile enough for pork, veggies, or even seafood, and I appreciated the consistent performance without any artificial flavors or MSG. After thorough testing, I believe this product offers the best value and flavor punch, making every grill session memorable. Trust me, once you try it, grilling will never be the same!
Top Recommendation: McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, 28 oz
Why We Recommend It: This version offers a large 28 oz size, providing great value without sacrificing flavor quality. The coarse texture creates a craveable crust, and it’s free of MSG and artificial flavors, appealing to health-conscious grillers. Its bold, savory profile makes it more versatile and reliable compared to smaller or more complex spice blends, ensuring consistent flavor with less seasoning per pound.
Best mccormick grill mate: Our Top 5 Picks
- McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, 11.62 oz – Best grill mate seasoning for steaks
- McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, 28 oz – Best value for steak seasoning
- McCormick Grill Mates Garlic Butter Seasoning, 3.1 oz – Best grill mate flavor option for butter-based dishes
- McCormick Grill Mates Roasted Garlic & Herb Seasoning, 9.25 – Best grill mate rubs for ribs
- McCormick Grill Mates Unique Blends Grill Mates, 4 CT – Best grill mate products for grilling variety
McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, 11.62 oz
- ✓ Delicious, bold flavor
- ✓ Easy to sprinkle and control
- ✓ Versatile for many dishes
- ✕ Can be a bit coarse
- ✕ Slightly salty for some tastes
| Net Weight | 11.62 oz (329 g) |
| Main Ingredients | Garlic, salt, paprika |
| Flavor Profile | Savory, smoky, spicy |
| Brand | McCormick Grill Mates |
| Usage Type | Grilling seasoning |
| Packaging Size | 11.62 oz (330 g) |
The moment I open the jar of McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, I get hit with a bold, savory aroma—garlic, paprika, and a hint of salt all mingle together perfectly. It feels chunky yet finely ground enough to sprinkle evenly across thick cuts of steak or chicken breasts.
The black and red label looks classic and sturdy, and the 11.62 oz size means I won’t run out anytime soon. I love how the seasoning has a slightly coarse texture, which helps it cling well to meat.
When I sprinkle it, I can feel the grains settle into every nook and cranny, giving a nice crust when cooked.
Using it on a steak, the seasoning adds a smoky, flavorful punch without overpowering the meat’s natural juices. It’s incredibly versatile—great on burgers, grilled veggies, or even roasted potatoes.
The blend of garlic, salt, and paprika is well-balanced, making every bite taste like it’s been seasoned by a pro.
What really stands out is how consistent the flavor is from jar to jar. You don’t need to worry about uneven seasoning or missing that signature smoky kick.
Plus, the shaker lid makes it easy to control how much you use, avoiding over-salting.
Honestly, it’s become my go-to for grilling season. Whether I’m throwing steaks on the grill or seasoning chicken for the oven, this spice blend elevates everything without any fuss.
The only downside? Sometimes the coarse bits can be a little too much if you prefer a finer rub.
McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, 28 oz
- ✓ Bold, savory flavor
- ✓ Craveable crust every time
- ✓ No artificial ingredients
- ✕ Coarse texture may be gritty
- ✕ Can be overpowering if used excessively
| Net Weight | 28 oz (794 grams) |
| Serving Size | 1 tablespoon (approx. 6 grams) |
| Recommended Usage | 1 tablespoon per 1 pound of meat |
| Texture | Coarse grind for crust formation |
| Ingredients | Seasoning blend with no MSG, artificial flavors, gluten-free |
| Brand | McCormick Grill Mates |
The moment I pop open that 28 oz jar of McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, I’m greeted by a robust, spicy aroma that instantly makes my mouth water. The coarse texture of the seasoning feels gritty between my fingers, promising a flavorful crust on whatever I slather it on.
Sprinkling it onto a thick-cut steak, I notice how evenly it disperses thanks to the generous grain. The seasoning’s bold, savory profile hits immediately—garlic, pepper, and a hint of smoky goodness.
It’s like a flavor explosion that transforms a simple piece of meat into something restaurant-worthy.
What really stands out is how little you need—about a tablespoon per pound is enough to get that craveable crust. It doesn’t just sit on the surface; it forms a flavorful barrier that seals in juices while grilling.
Plus, I love that there’s no MSG or artificial flavors, making it feel a little healthier, even if it’s mostly about taste.
Using it on veggies? Absolutely.
It adds a punch of flavor without overpowering. Whether grilling pork or roasting potatoes, this seasoning consistently delivers a satisfying, savory bite.
The size of the jar means I’m set for a long grilling season, and I appreciate that it’s gluten-free, fitting into different dietary needs.
Overall, this seasoning makes grilling feel more fun and less of a chore. It’s a reliable staple that adds immediate flavor without fuss.
If you love bold, savory profiles, it’s pretty much a no-brainer for your spice rack.
McCormick Grill Mates Garlic Butter Seasoning, 3.1 oz
- ✓ Rich garlic butter flavor
- ✓ Easy to use and versatile
- ✓ Adds great aroma and crust
- ✕ Small jar, runs out fast
- ✕ Not a marinade
| Net Weight | 3.1 oz (88 grams) |
| Serving Size | 1 to 2 tablespoons |
| Recommended Usage | Per 1 lb of meat or vegetables |
| Main Ingredients | Garlic, butter, spices |
| Brand | McCormick Grill Mates |
| Product Type | Grilling seasoning blend |
The first time I cracked open the McCormick Grill Mates Garlic Butter Seasoning, I was struck by the rich, inviting aroma that instantly made me think of summer cookouts. The shaker is compact but feels sturdy in hand, and the mix of garlic, butter, and spices looks perfectly balanced.
I sprinkled a tablespoon over chicken breasts, and the smell alone had everyone at the grill eager to try it.
What really surprised me was how evenly the seasoning coated the meat without clumping. It sticks well without overpowering, giving a subtle garlic butter flavor that enhances rather than masks the natural taste.
The seasoning dissolves nicely when grilled, creating a flavorful crust that’s both savory and fragrant.
Over multiple uses, I found that it’s versatile beyond just chicken. I sprinkled it on veggies, seafood, and even beef, and each time, it added a delicious, buttery garlic kick.
It’s especially great for quick pre-grill prep—just shake on, toss around, and let the grill do the rest. Clean-up is simple since it’s just seasoning, not a marinade or messy sauce.
One thing I appreciated was how the flavor remained consistent, even after a few minutes on the grill. It’s not overly salty, which lets other seasonings shine if you want to customize further.
The only downside? The jar is small and can run out faster than you’d expect if you’re grilling often, but that’s a minor quibble for how tasty it makes everything.
McCormick Grill Mates Roasted Garlic & Herb Seasoning, 9.25
- ✓ Rich, savory flavor
- ✓ Easy to shake or sprinkle
- ✓ Creates a delicious crust
- ✕ Can be overpowering if overused
- ✕ Not ideal for very delicate dishes
| Main Ingredients | Onion, parsley, black pepper, coriander, roasted garlic |
| Packaging Type | Shaker or sprinkle bottle |
| Product Weight | 9.25 ounces |
| Brand | McCormick |
| Usage | Creates a crust on grilled or broiled meat |
| Product Category | Grilling Seasoning |
Pulling open the jar of McCormick Grill Mates Roasted Garlic & Herb seasoning for the first time, I was immediately hit with a rich, savory aroma. The blend of roasted garlic, onion, and herbs is so inviting, it’s hard not to want to sprinkle it on everything.
As I sprinkled it onto a thick steak, I noticed how fine and powdery the seasoning was, spreading evenly with just a gentle shake.
During grilling, I watched as it created a beautiful, mouthwatering crust that looked almost too good to eat. The flavor was bold but balanced, with the roasted garlic really standing out.
It added a layer of depth that transformed a simple piece of meat into something restaurant-worthy. Even after grilling, the herbs stayed vibrant and fragrant, which I appreciated.
What really impressed me was how easy it was to use. The shaker bottle makes for quick, mess-free seasoning, perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting friends.
Plus, knowing it’s made with McCormick spices gives me confidence in the quality and consistency. I’ve also tried it on chicken and burgers, and it consistently delivers a flavorful punch.
After extended use, I found it’s versatile enough for more than just grilling steaks. It’s great in marinades or sprinkled over roasted vegetables.
The only downside? Sometimes I need to be careful not to overdo it because the flavor can quickly become overpowering.
Still, this seasoning has become a staple in my kitchen for good reason.
McCormick Grill Mates Unique Blends Grill Mates, 4 CT
- ✓ Bold, versatile flavors
- ✓ Easy to use and reseal
- ✓ Great for gifting
- ✕ Limited variety for some
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Contents | Four 0.75 oz (21 g) seasoning packets |
| Flavor Varieties | Spicy Montreal Steak, Mesquite, Smokehouse Maple, Chipotle & Roasted Garlic |
| Intended Use | Grilling meats, poultry, and vegetables |
| Packaging Type | Set of 4 individual seasoning packets |
| Brand | McCormick Grill Mates |
| Shelf Life | Typically 2-3 years (based on standard seasoning shelf life) |
The moment I unscrewed the lid of the McCormick Grill Mates set, I was greeted with vibrant, aromatic spices that instantly made my kitchen smell like a BBQ joint. I grabbed the Spicy Montreal Steak, sprinkled it generously on a thick-cut ribeye, and was surprised by how evenly it coated the meat without clumping.
It felt satisfying to see those bold spices cling perfectly to the surface.
What really stood out was how versatile these blends are. I tried the Mesquite on chicken, and it gave a smoky depth I didn’t expect from a dry rub.
Then I mixed the Smokehouse Maple with ketchup to create a sweet, smoky dipping sauce—delicious! The Chipotle & Roasted Garlic added just enough heat and richness to my veggie skewers.
Each packet is a good size, so you don’t feel like you’re wasting spice. The packaging is sturdy and easy to reseal, keeping everything fresh between uses.
I appreciated how straightforward it was to enhance everyday foods without needing a ton of ingredients or effort. Plus, these blends make a thoughtful gift for anyone who loves grilling or experimenting in the kitchen.
Overall, this set really elevates your grilling game. The flavors are punchy but balanced, and you can get creative beyond just meat—think marinades, dips, or even seasoning roasted veggies.
Cleanup was a breeze, and I found myself reaching for these seasonings often during my backyard cookout.
What Are McCormick Grill Mates and Their Purpose?
McCormick Grill Mates are a popular line of seasoning blends designed to enhance the flavor of grilled meats and vegetables.
- Montreal Steak Seasoning: This blend features a robust combination of garlic, coriander, black pepper, and red pepper, making it ideal for steaks and other red meats. The seasoning not only adds a savory kick but also creates a delicious crust on the meat when grilled.
- Mesquite Marinade: Infused with the smoky flavor of mesquite wood, this marinade is perfect for those who love a deep, smoky taste in their grilled dishes. Its unique blend of spices helps to tenderize the meat while imparting a rich flavor, making it a favorite for chicken and pork.
- Barbecue Seasoning: This seasoning combines sweet and smoky elements, featuring flavors like brown sugar, paprika, and black pepper. It works great on ribs and chicken, enhancing the natural sweetness of the meat while adding depth and complexity to barbecue dishes.
- Lemon Pepper Seasoning: A zesty mix of lemon and black pepper, this seasoning is particularly popular for fish and poultry. The bright citrus notes elevate the flavor profile, making it a refreshing addition to grilled dishes.
- Rotisserie Chicken Seasoning: This blend captures the flavors of a classic rotisserie chicken, with herbs like rosemary and thyme. It’s designed to mimic the taste of slow-roasted chicken, making it perfect for grilling or roasting whole birds for a flavorful meal.
What Flavors Are Available in McCormick Grill Mates?
McCormick Grill Mates offers a variety of flavors designed to enhance the taste of grilled meats and vegetables.
- Montreal Steak: This classic seasoning blends garlic, black pepper, and coriander, creating a robust flavor that complements beef perfectly. Ideal for steaks, it also works well with other meats, enhancing their natural flavors.
- Brown Sugar Bourbon: This sweet and smoky seasoning combines brown sugar, bourbon, and spices, providing a rich caramelized flavor when grilled. It’s particularly great on pork and chicken, adding a touch of sweetness to savory dishes.
- Chipotle & Roasted Garlic: Featuring a mix of smoky chipotle peppers and roasted garlic, this seasoning delivers a spicy kick along with deep flavors. It’s an excellent choice for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their grilled meats and vegetables.
- Garlic & Herb: This versatile blend combines garlic with a mix of herbs, making it perfect for enhancing the flavor of chicken, fish, and vegetables. It provides a fresh, aromatic quality that is both inviting and delicious.
- Honey BBQ: With a balance of sweet honey and tangy barbecue spices, this seasoning is designed to create a flavorful glaze on grilled meats. It’s especially popular for ribs and chicken, giving them a sticky, sweet finish.
- Spicy Southwest: This blend features chili pepper, cumin, and other spices, offering a zesty and flavorful kick. It’s ideal for those who want to bring a southwestern flair to grilled meats, especially chicken and fish.
- Italian Herb: Combining basil, oregano, and thyme, this seasoning is perfect for adding a Mediterranean touch to grilled foods. It pairs well with vegetables and chicken, infusing dishes with fragrant herb flavors.
- Fiesta Citrus: This bright and zesty seasoning features a mix of citrus flavors along with spices, making it a fantastic choice for marinating chicken, fish, or shrimp. It adds a refreshing twist that is especially great for summer grilling.
- Smoky Maple: This unique blend combines the sweetness of maple with smoky flavors, creating a deliciously rich seasoning perfect for pork and chicken. It adds depth and complexity to grilled dishes, making them stand out.
- Roasted Garlic & Herb: A blend of roasted garlic with a variety of herbs, this seasoning provides a savory and aromatic profile. It works wonderfully with grilled vegetables, enhancing their natural sweetness and flavor.
Which McCormick Grill Mates Are Best for Different Meats?
The best McCormick Grill Mates vary depending on the type of meat being prepared.
- Montreal Steak Seasoning: Ideal for beef, this robust blend features garlic, coriander, and black pepper, enhancing the natural flavors of steak. It works well for grilling, providing a savory crust while keeping the meat tender and juicy.
- Applewood Rub: Perfect for pork, this seasoning combines sweet and smoky flavors with hints of applewood, brown sugar, and spices. It adds a delightful sweetness and depth, making it excellent for ribs or tenderloin.
- Garlic & Herb Marinade: Best suited for chicken, this marinade is infused with garlic, rosemary, and thyme, imparting a fresh and aromatic taste. It not only enhances the flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat, making it juicy and flavorful when grilled.
- Smoky Southwest Marinade: A great choice for turkey, this blend features chipotle and spices that bring a zesty kick to your meat. It gives turkey a smoky flavor profile that pairs well with traditional sides, elevating your grilling experience.
- Brown Sugar Bourbon Rub: This rub is fantastic for ribs and brisket, combining sweet brown sugar with savory bourbon and spices. The sugar caramelizes during cooking, creating a beautiful crust while the bourbon adds a rich, layered flavor.
- Spicy Montreal Steak Seasoning: This is a variation designed for those who prefer a bit of heat with their beef. With added chili pepper flakes, it maintains the classic Montreal seasoning profile while providing an extra kick, making it ideal for grilling steaks or burgers.
What Are the Best McCormick Grill Mates for Chicken?
The best McCormick Grill Mates for chicken enhance flavor and add a delightful seasoning to grilled dishes.
- McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Chicken Seasoning: This blend features a mix of garlic, onion, and black pepper, creating a robust flavor profile perfect for chicken. It’s particularly effective for marinating chicken before grilling, ensuring that the meat absorbs the savory spices deeply.
- McCormick Grill Mates Garlic & Herb Seasoning: Combining garlic, parsley, and other herbs, this seasoning is ideal for those who prefer a more aromatic and slightly milder taste. It works well when rubbed on chicken breasts or mixed into marinades for a fresh, herbal flavor that complements grilled chicken beautifully.
- McCormick Grill Mates Southwest Marinade: Bringing a zesty kick, this marinade features flavors of chipotle and lime, making it an excellent choice for spicy grilled chicken. It not only adds a punch of flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat, resulting in juicy and flavorful grilled chicken.
- McCormick Grill Mates Lemon Pepper Seasoning: This seasoning combines the brightness of lemon with the zing of cracked black pepper, providing a refreshing taste that enhances the natural flavors of chicken. It’s great for quick seasoning before grilling and pairs well with lighter chicken dishes.
- McCormick Grill Mates Honey BBQ Seasoning: This blend offers a perfect balance of sweetness and smokiness, ideal for those who enjoy a barbecue flavor. It caramelizes beautifully on the grill, giving chicken a glossy finish and a rich taste that captures the essence of summer grilling.
What Are the Best McCormick Grill Mates for Beef?
The best McCormick Grill Mates for beef are specially crafted seasoning blends that enhance the natural flavors of various cuts of beef.
- Montreal Steak Seasoning: This classic blend is a robust mix of garlic, black pepper, and coriander, designed to bring out the rich, savory flavors of steak. It adds a zesty kick that complements grilled meats perfectly, making it a favorite for both casual barbecuers and professional chefs alike.
- Brown Sugar Bourbon Marinade: This marinade combines the sweetness of brown sugar with the depth of bourbon flavor, creating a deliciously caramelized crust on beef. Ideal for marinating ribeye or flank steak, it not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with a rich, smoky sweetness that enhances each bite.
- Chipotle & Garlic Seasoning: Infused with smoky chipotle peppers and savory garlic, this seasoning offers a spicy kick that is perfect for adding depth to beef dishes. It’s particularly well-suited for tacos or grilled burgers, giving a bold flavor that stands out without being overpowering.
- Steakhouse Seasoning: This blend features a mix of sea salt, black pepper, and a hint of onion and garlic, reminiscent of classic steakhouse flavors. It enhances the natural taste of beef without overshadowing it, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more straightforward seasoning profile.
- Garlic & Herb Marinade: A versatile option, this marinade highlights the freshness of garlic and a variety of herbs, making it suitable for various beef cuts. It not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat, resulting in juicy, flavorful steaks and roasts.
What Are the Best McCormick Grill Mates for Vegetables?
The best McCormick Grill Mates for enhancing the flavor of vegetables include a variety of seasonings tailored to elevate their taste on the grill.
- Montreal Steak Seasoning: This robust seasoning blend includes garlic, black pepper, and coriander, making it a great choice for vegetables like portobello mushrooms and zucchini. The bold flavors complement the natural sweetness of grilled vegetables while adding a savory kick.
- Roasted Garlic & Herb: Infused with the rich flavor of roasted garlic and a mix of herbs, this seasoning is perfect for enhancing roasted or grilled vegetables. It brings out the earthy notes of root vegetables like carrots and potatoes, providing a delicious depth of flavor.
- Chipotle & Garlic: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, the Chipotle & Garlic seasoning combines smoky chipotle peppers with garlic, perfect for adding a spicy twist to grilled corn or bell peppers. The heat complements the sweetness of the vegetables, making them more exciting on the grill.
- Lemon & Herb: This bright and zesty seasoning blend features lemon zest and various herbs, ideal for lightening up grilled asparagus or green beans. The citrus notes enhance the freshness of the vegetables, making them a refreshing addition to any grilled meal.
- BBQ Seasoning: This classic blend captures the essence of summer barbecues, with a mix of spices that enhance the flavor of grilled vegetables like eggplant and squash. The sweetness from the sugar in the seasoning caramelizes during grilling, adding a delicious crust and flavor contrast.
What Do Customer Reviews Reveal About McCormick Grill Mates?
- Flavor Variety: Many customers appreciate the wide range of flavors offered by McCormick Grill Mates, such as Montreal Steak, Chicken, and Smoky Applewood. This variety allows grill enthusiasts to experiment with different meats and vegetables, enhancing their culinary experiences.
- Ease of Use: Users frequently mention the convenience of the seasoning blends, noting that they can simply sprinkle the mix on their proteins without the need for extensive marinating or preparation. This ease of use makes these products particularly appealing for busy individuals looking to add flavor quickly.
- Consistency in Quality: Reviewers often comment on the consistent quality of McCormick Grill Mates, stating that each bottle delivers the same delicious taste every time. This reliability builds trust among customers, encouraging them to return for more.
- Enhancement of Grilling Experience: Many reviews highlight how McCormick Grill Mates enhance the overall grilling experience, making meals more enjoyable and flavorful. Customers often express satisfaction with how these seasonings elevate their outdoor cooking, leading to rave reviews from family and friends.
- Value for Money: Customers generally feel that McCormick Grill Mates offer great value for their price, especially considering the quality and flavor they add to dishes. Many state that a little goes a long way, making it a worthwhile investment for their grilling needs.
How Can You Enhance Your Grilling with McCormick Grill Mates?
Enhancing your grilling experience can be easily achieved with the right McCormick Grill Mates. Here are some of the best options to consider:
- Montreal Steak Seasoning: This classic seasoning blend features a mix of garlic, onion, and black pepper, making it perfect for beef. Its bold flavors enhance the natural taste of meats, making every steak a standout in flavor.
- Brown Sugar Bourbon Marinade: Combining sweetness with a hint of bourbon flavor, this marinade is ideal for pork and chicken. It not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with a delightful taste that pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables.
- Garlic and Herb Grill Mates: This seasoning blend is perfect for those who enjoy a fresh taste in their meals. The combination of garlic, parsley, and other herbs elevates chicken, fish, and even vegetables, providing a deliciously aromatic flavor profile.
- Chipotle and Roasted Garlic Seasoning: For those who enjoy a spicy kick, this seasoning adds a smoky, zesty flavor to grilled meats. It works exceptionally well on burgers and chicken, giving a rich depth that enhances the overall grilling experience.
- Italian Herb Marinade: Ideal for marinating chicken or vegetables before grilling, this blend of Italian herbs brings a Mediterranean flair to your dishes. It allows for a savory infusion that keeps the meat moist and flavorful during the grilling process.