15-Minute Cowboy Steak and Roast Seasoning Rub

This bold seasoning blend combines sweet paprika, thyme, and aromatic spices to create an authentic cowboy-style rub perfect for steaks and roasts. The mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs delivers a robust, smoky flavor that enhances beef's natural taste. Simply press the rub onto your meat before grilling, pan-broiling, or roasting for restaurant-quality results at home.
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons sweet paprika
- 1 ½ teaspoons dried thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt(optional)
- ½ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- 1
Combine all ingredients in small bowl
- 2
Press seasoning mixture evenly onto beef steak or roast
- 3
Grill, pan-broil or broil steaks according to preferred method
- 4
For roasts, place in oven and cook according to standard charts
- 5
Cook beef to medium rare (145°F) to medium (160°F) doneness
Tips
Press the rub firmly into the meat surface to ensure good adhesion and maximum flavor penetration during cooking
Let seasoned meat rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking to allow flavors to meld
Store leftover rub in an airtight container for up to 6 months
Good to Know
Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months
Can be mixed weeks ahead and stored in sealed container
Apply rub just before cooking or up to 2 hours ahead
Common Mistakes
Press rub firmly to avoid seasoning falling off during cooking
Don't over-salt if using salted butter or marinades with the meat
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use this rub on other meats besides beef?
Yes, this versatile rub works well on pork chops, chicken, and lamb. Adjust cooking times and temperatures according to the specific meat type.
How long can I leave the rub on meat before cooking?
For best results, apply 15-30 minutes before cooking. You can leave it up to 2 hours, but longer may make the meat too salty.
Can I make a larger batch of this rub?
Absolutely! Double or triple the recipe and store in an airtight container. The proportions scale perfectly for larger batches.