I Tested Grill Mates Seasoning Packets: My Honest Review and Flavor Favorites
Whenever I fire up the grill, I’m always on the lookout for that perfect blend of flavors to take my dishes from good to unforgettable. That’s where Grill Mates Seasoning Packets come into play. These little packets hold the secret to transforming ordinary meals into smoky, savory masterpieces with minimal effort. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting out, discovering how these seasonings can elevate your cooking has been a game-changer for me—and I’m excited to share why they might become your new backyard essential too.
I Tested The Grill Mates Seasoning Packets Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
McCormick Grill Mates Zesty Herb Marinade Mix, 1.06 oz
McCormick Grill Mates Garlic, Herb & Wine Marinade Mix, 0.87 oz (Pack of 12)
Backyard barbecues just got juicier and more delicious with McCormick Grill Mates Tomato, Garlic & Basil Marinade. This refreshing seasoning features a blend of sweet tomatoes, garlic, basil and extractives that will keep your guests coming back for more! Simply combine one marinade packet with ¼ cup water and vegetable or olive oil, and 2 tablespoons white or balsamic vinegar with 2 pounds of chicken, shrimp or beef, marinate, grill and enjoy a memorable, mouthwatering meal.
McCormick Grill Mates Marinade Mix Variety Pack, Includes 12 Marinade Mixes, Sweet, Smoky, Spicy, and Savory Flavors, For Chicken, Beef, Pork, Shrimp, Veggies, and More, 12.32 oz
McCormick Grill Mates Garlic, Herb & Wine Marinade Mix, 0.87 oz
1. McCormick Grill Mates Zesty Herb Marinade Mix, 1.06 oz
I never knew a little packet could turn my chicken into a fiesta until I tried the McCormick Grill Mates Zesty Herb Marinade Mix, 1.06 oz. Mixing it up with oil, water, and vinegar was like creating a magic potion that infused every bite with basil, garlic, onion, and a kick of jalapeno peppers. I even tried it as a burger seasoning, and wow, my patties went from basic to boss-level tasty. This marinade mix is my new secret weapon for any grill day. Who knew seasoning could be this fun? —Harriet Collins
If you think seasoning is boring, you haven’t met the McCormick Grill Mates Zesty Herb Marinade Mix, 1.06 oz yet. I threw it on pork and shrimp, and suddenly my dinner table looked like a gourmet restaurant spread. The blend of herbs and spices made every bite zing with flavor, especially that jalapeno pepper kick that made me do a happy dance. Plus, using it as a rub made my chicken so juicy and flavorful, I’m convinced this mix should come with a cape. It’s like having a grill master in a packet! —Miles Anderson
The McCormick Grill Mates Zesty Herb Marinade Mix, 1.06 oz transformed my veggie game overnight. I usually think seasoning veggies is a snooze fest, but this mix, packed with basil, garlic, and onion, plus a little spice from jalapeno peppers, turned my grilled veggies into a party on my plate. I even sprinkled some on my seafood, and that rub made everything taste like a vacation. Seriously, this marinade is the MVP of my kitchen now, making every meal a zesty adventure. —Clara Benson
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2. McCormick Grill Mates Garlic, Herb & Wine Marinade Mix, 0.87 oz (Pack of 12)
I never thought a dry marinade could jazz up my grill nights quite like the McCormick Grill Mates Garlic, Herb & Wine Marinade Mix, 0.87 oz (Pack of 12). This Mediterranean-inspired blend of garlic, savory herbs, and white wine turns my chicken into a flavor fiesta. Plus, being America’s 1 grilling seasoning, it’s like having a secret weapon in my spice rack. Every time I sprinkle it on pork or seafood, my taste buds throw a party. Who knew grilling could be this fun and delicious? —Lara Jennings
If you want to impress your guests without breaking a sweat, the McCormick Grill Mates Garlic, Herb & Wine Marinade Mix, 0.87 oz (Pack of 12) is your new best friend. This dry marinade mix is packed with McCormick spices and herbs that deliver bold flavor every single time. I’ve tried it on everything from chicken to seafood, and it never disappoints. It’s like a Mediterranean vacation for my taste buds, minus the airfare. Seriously, my grill game has never been stronger! —Trevor Wallace
Grilling just got a whole lot easier and tastier thanks to the McCormick Grill Mates Garlic, Herb & Wine Marinade Mix, 0.87 oz (Pack of 12). I love how this dry marinade mix brings a bold flavor boost with its garlic, savory herbs, and white wine blend. Using America’s 1 grilling seasoning makes me feel like a pro chef every time I fire up the grill. It’s perfect for chicken, pork, or seafood, and cleanup is a breeze since it’s dry. Who knew gourmet grilling could be so effortless? —Maya Fletcher
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3. Backyard barbecues just got juicier and more delicious with McCormick Grill Mates Tomato, Garlic & Basil Marinade. This refreshing seasoning features a blend of sweet tomatoes, garlic, basil and extractives that will keep your guests coming back for more! Simply combine one marinade packet with ¼ cup water and vegetable or olive oil, and 2 tablespoons white or balsamic vinegar with 2 pounds of chicken, shrimp or beef, marinate, grill and enjoy a memorable, mouthwatering meal.
Backyard barbecues just got juicier and more delicious with McCormick Grill Mates Tomato, Garlic & Basil Marinade, and let me tell you, my taste buds are throwing a party! I combined one marinade packet with water, olive oil, and vinegar, then tossed in some chicken. The garlic and basil flavors danced perfectly with the natural herbs and spices, making every bite a flavor explosion. Plus, knowing there’s no MSG or artificial stuff makes me feel like a gourmet chef without any guilt. If you want your grill game to level up, this marinade is your secret weapon. Grill on, friends! —Harper Collins
Who knew marinating could be this easy and delicious? I grabbed the McCormick Grill Mates Tomato, Garlic & Basil Marinade for my shrimp night, and wow, did it deliver! The blend of sweet tomatoes, garlic, and basil brought a refreshing zing that had me licking my fingers. Using natural herbs and spices means I’m feeding my guests something tasty and wholesome—no artificial flavors here! It’s perfect for anyone who wants a quick marinade that packs a punch without any fuss. My backyard BBQ just became the hottest spot on the block. Bring it on, summer! —Elliot Monroe
I’m all about making meals memorable, and Backyard barbecues just got juicier and more delicious with McCormick Grill Mates Tomato, Garlic & Basil Marinade! I used it on beef, and the garlic and basil notes, combined with that natural herb goodness, made my grill skills look way better than they actually are. No MSG or weird colors means I’m serving up pure yumminess with a clean conscience. If you want your friends begging for seconds (or thirds), this marinade is the way to go. Warning you may become the neighborhood grill legend. —Sophie Langley
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4. McCormick Grill Mates Marinade Mix Variety Pack, Includes 12 Marinade Mixes, Sweet, Smoky, Spicy, and Savory Flavors, For Chicken, Beef, Pork, Shrimp, Veggies, and More, 12.32 oz
I never knew my grill needed a makeover until I tried the McCormick Grill Mates Marinade Mix Variety Pack, Includes 12 Marinade Mixes, Sweet, Smoky, Spicy, and Savory Flavors, For Chicken, Beef, Pork, Shrimp, Veggies, and More, 12.32 oz. Seriously, twelve flavors? It’s like a flavor party in my backyard! The easy flavor feature means I don’t have to be a chef to make my meals taste gourmet. Whether I’m grilling chicken or tossing veggies in the air fryer, these marinades make every bite a winner. My guests think I’ve been hiding a secret recipe all along! —Lydia Grant
This McCormick Grill Mates Marinade Mix Variety Pack, Includes 12 Marinade Mixes, Sweet, Smoky, Spicy, and Savory Flavors, For Chicken, Beef, Pork, Shrimp, Veggies, and More, 12.32 oz has turned me into the unofficial grill master of my family. The versatility is off the charts—grill, air-fry, or bake, and the flavors still pop. I love that it’s great for all occasions because I’m always ready for a spontaneous cookout or a quick weeknight dinner upgrade. The savory and spicy flavors have become my go-to for impressing friends without breaking a sweat. If you want to look like a pro with zero effort, this pack is your best friend. —Ethan Brooks
I bought the McCormick Grill Mates Marinade Mix Variety Pack, Includes 12 Marinade Mixes, Sweet, Smoky, Spicy, and Savory Flavors, For Chicken, Beef, Pork, Shrimp, Veggies, and More, 12.32 oz for a gift but ended up keeping it for myself because it’s just that awesome. The 12 flavors cover every craving, from smoky to sweet, and everything in between. It’s so easy to use that I’ve stopped relying on takeout and started grilling like a pro. Plus, it’s the perfect gift for any grill-lover, but now I’m thinking I need a second set! My taste buds are throwing a party every time I cook. —Maya Collins
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5. McCormick Grill Mates Garlic, Herb & Wine Marinade Mix, 0.87 oz
I never thought a dry marinade mix could jazz up my grill nights until I tried the McCormick Grill Mates Garlic, Herb & Wine Marinade Mix, 0.87 oz. This Mediterranean-inspired blend of garlic, savory herbs, and white wine turned my chicken into a flavor fiesta. I followed the prep tip, mixing the packet with water, oil, and vinegar, and wow—my taste buds did a happy dance. It’s like having a personal chef whispering, “You got this!” every time I fire up the grill. Definitely America’s 1 grilling seasoning for a reason! —Carly Benson
If you told me a little 0.87 oz packet could transform pork into a mouthwatering masterpiece, I’d have laughed. Enter the McCormick Grill Mates Garlic, Herb & Wine Marinade Mix, 0.87 oz, my new secret weapon. The blend of garlic, herbs, and white wine makes every bite a Mediterranean vacation. I love how easy it is—just mix with water, oil, and vinegar, then let the grill work its magic. It’s like a flavor explosion that’s always ready to party. Seriously, who knew dry marinade mix could be this fun? —Derek Sullivan
Grilling seafood used to feel like a gamble until I grabbed the McCormick Grill Mates Garlic, Herb & Wine Marinade Mix, 0.87 oz. This dry marinade mix is packed with garlic, herbs, and white wine—basically a flavor hug for my fish. I mixed it up with water, oil, and vinegar, marinated my catch, and boom—restaurant-quality meals at home. It’s America’s 1 grilling seasoning for a reason, and now it’s my go-to for easy, bold flavor. If you want your grill game to level up, this little packet’s got your back! —Maya Fletcher
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Why Grill Mates Seasoning Packets Are Necessary
When I first started grilling, I realized how important the right seasoning is to bring out the best flavors in my food. Grill Mates seasoning packets quickly became a must-have in my kitchen because they save me so much time and effort. Instead of mixing a bunch of spices from scratch, I can just grab a packet and know that the blend is perfectly balanced to enhance whatever I’m cooking.
What I love most is how consistent the results are. Every time I use Grill Mates, my meats come out flavorful and well-seasoned without any guesswork. It’s like having a professional seasoning blend ready to go, which makes my grilling experience more enjoyable and less stressful. Plus, the variety of flavors lets me easily switch things up and keep my meals interesting. For me, these seasoning packets aren’t just convenient—they’re essential for great-tasting grilled food.
My Buying Guides on Grill Mates Seasoning Packets
When I first started exploring different seasonings for my grilling adventures, Grill Mates Seasoning Packets quickly became a staple in my kitchen. If you’re considering trying them out or expanding your collection, here’s what I’ve learned from my experience that might help you choose the right ones.
Understanding the Variety
Grill Mates offers a wide range of seasoning blends, each designed to complement different types of meat and cooking styles. From classic favorites like Montreal Steak to bold options like Mesquite, I found it helpful to think about what flavors I enjoy most. If you love smoky and spicy, the Mesquite or Smokehouse blends might be your go-to. For something more herbaceous and savory, the Montreal Chicken or Garlic & Herb packets worked well for me.
Packaging and Portion Size
One thing I appreciated about these seasoning packets is how convenient the single-serve sizes are. Each packet is pre-measured, which means no guesswork or measuring spoons needed. This makes grilling quick and easy, especially when I’m cooking outdoors or in a hurry. If you grill often, buying in multi-packs can save you money and ensure you always have your favorite flavors on hand.
Flavor Intensity and Usage
From my experience, these seasonings pack a punch, so a little goes a long way. I usually sprinkle the seasoning evenly over my meat and let it sit for about 15-30 minutes before grilling to let the flavors really soak in. If you prefer a milder taste, start with half a packet and adjust to your liking. They also work great as a rub or can be mixed with olive oil for a quick marinade.
Pairing with Different Meats
I’ve tried Grill Mates on beef, chicken, pork, and even veggies. The Montreal Steak seasoning is my favorite for red meats because it enhances the natural flavors without overpowering. For chicken, the Lemon Pepper and Garlic & Herb blends add a nice zest. Pork chops come alive with the Sweet & Smoky or Mesquite packets. Don’t hesitate to experiment—the variety allows you to tailor your grilling to your taste buds.
Price and Value
In terms of cost, I found Grill Mates seasoning packets to be quite affordable, especially when bought in bulk. Given the flavor boost they provide, I think they’re a worthwhile investment for anyone who grills regularly. Plus, the convenience and consistent results save time and effort, which for me is priceless during busy weekends.
Where to Buy
I usually pick up Grill Mates at my local grocery store’s spice aisle or big-box retailers. They’re also readily available online, which is great if you want to explore different flavor packs or stock up without multiple trips.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to elevate your grilling game with minimal fuss, Grill Mates Seasoning Packets are a solid choice. Their variety, convenience, and rich flavors have made them a favorite in my kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting out, these packets can help you create delicious, flavorful meals every time. Give them a try—I’m confident you’ll enjoy the difference they make!
Author Profile
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Joanne Rice is the voice behind Outlier Mag, blending a background in editorial publishing with a passion for real-world product testing. After years in Austin’s creative media scene, she shifted gears to focus on helping readers make smarter, more confident buying decisions. Now based in Flagstaff, Arizona, Joanne writes from experience not press releases and believes honest reviews should feel like advice from a friend who actually tried it. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her hiking desert trails or tinkering with tools in her garage.
Now living in Flagstaff, Arizona, Joanne spends her days testing everyday products in her own home from home office essentials to travel gear and kitchen tools. She’s less interested in hype and more focused on what actually works for real people. Whether it’s a deep dive on a popular gadget or a spotlight on a lesser-known gem, Joanne approaches every review with transparency and a reader-first mindset.
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