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Steak night is already a win, but once chimichurri enters the chat, things get exciting. This Chimichurri Steak is all about contrast done right. Juicy, well seasoned steak meets a bold, herby sauce that cuts through the richness and wakes everything up.

What makes this one special is balance. The steak stays the hero, while the chimichurri sauce brings freshness, acidity, and just enough bite to keep every forkful interesting. It is simple, fast, and exactly the kind of recipe that makes you feel like you tried harder than you actually did.

Steaks with Chimichurri!

What Makes This Chimichurri Steak

  • The sauce is fresh, not overpowering: This chimichurri recipe is bright and punchy without drowning the steak, so you still taste the beef first.
  • Built for real steaks: Thick, juicy cuts are seasoned simply and cooked hot, letting the meat shine instead of hiding behind marinades.
  • Fast but impressive: From chopping herbs to slicing steak, this comes together quickly and still feels restaurant worthy.
  • Customisable without breaking it: You can tweak heat, acidity, or herbs while keeping that classic chimichurri flavour intact, which is key for the best chimichurri steak experience.

What Goes Into Chimichurri Steak

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Top shot of ingredients: Steak, parsley, olive oil, red chillies, garlic, coarse salt, oregano, pepper, and red wine vinegar.

This recipe keeps things simple yet full of flavor, using fresh herbs, quality olive oil, and just the right seasonings to make the steak and chimichurri sauce shine.

  • Olive Oil: A rich, silky base for the chimichurri that carries all the herbs and spices beautifully over the steak.
  • Fresh Parsley: The star herb in any authentic chimichurri recipe, adding bright, grassy freshness.
  • Garlic: Finely chopped for bold aroma and flavor that pairs perfectly with grilled beef.
  • Ribeye, T-Bone, or Strip Steak: Well-marbled cuts that stay juicy and tender whether grilled or pan-fried.

Note: Please see recipe card at the bottom for a full list of ingredients with measurements.

Add Ins And Substitutions That Still Play Nice

If you feel like switching things up or tailoring the sauce to what you have on hand, these options slide in easily without changing the heart of the chimichurri.

  • Lemon Juice: Swap part of the red wine vinegar for fresh lemon juice to add a brighter, more citrusy edge that works especially well with richer steak cuts.
  • Coriander: Replace a portion of the parsley with coriander for a slightly more aromatic, fresh finish that still keeps the sauce balanced.
  • Shallots: Finely minced shallots bring a softer, slightly sweet onion flavour without the sharp bite of raw onion.
  • Smoked Chilli Flakes: Adds gentle heat and a subtle smoky note that deepens the sauce without overpowering the herbs.

How To Make Chimichurri Steak

Mixed olive oil, red wine vinegar, parsley, garlic, chili, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  1. Prepare the Chimichurri: In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, parsley, garlic, chili, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Chimichurri in a bowl with cover.
  1. Let Flavors Develop: Allow the mixture to sit for 10 minutes. You can also refrigerate it for up to 24 hours.
Patting steaks dry using paper towel.
  1. Season the Steaks: Pat steaks dry, season generously with salt, and brush lightly with olive oil on both sides.
Cooking steaks in a pan.
  1. Cook the Steaks: Cook over medium-high heat, 2–3 minutes per side for medium-rare, 3–4 for medium, or 4–5 for well done.
Steaks in a tray.
  1. Rest the Meat: Transfer steaks to a tray and let them rest for 5 minutes to keep the juices locked in.
Close-up shot of Chimichurri Steak.
  1. Serve and Enjoy: Spoon about 2–3 tablespoons of chimichurri per person or serve in a small bowl for dipping and pouring.

Pair your chimichurri steak with sides that balance its bold flavors. A creamy pumpkin and spinach soup with crispy bacon makes a warm, comforting starter, while a hearty chicken and pumpkin lentil stew adds earthy depth to the meal. For a lighter touch, goat’s cheese and smoked salmon on a toasted English muffin offers a refined, fresh bite that complements the steak’s richness.

Tips From Someone Who Has Made This Too Many Times

  • Let the chimichurri sit before serving. Even 10 minutes makes a noticeable difference in flavour.
  • Do not blitz the sauce smooth. Hand chopping keeps the texture fresh and lively.
  • Always rest your steak. Cutting too early is the fastest way to lose juiciness.
  • Taste the sauce before serving and adjust acidity or oil as needed. Chimichurri should be bold but balanced.

Recipe FAQ’s

What Cut Of Steak Works Best For Chimichurri?

Ribeye, T-bone, and strip steaks are ideal for the best chimichurri steak, but flank or skirt steak also work beautifully.

Can I Make This Without Fresh Parsley?

Fresh parsley is traditional, but you can substitute with cilantro or a mix of both for a slightly different twist on the chimichurri sauce.

Is Chimichurri Meant To Be Spicy?

It has a mild kick from chili, but you can adjust the heat level to your taste or omit it entirely.

A piece of Authentic Chimichurri Steak

Chimichurri Steak on VIDEO!

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4.91 from 11 votes

Steaks with Chimichurri (Churrasco from Uruguay & Argentina)

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 people
An authentic Chimichurri Steak recipe! Chimichurri is the most delicious silky condiment that drips seductively over your steak, chicken or fish. Super easy to make and tastes incredible! Made with simple, easy to find ingredients: parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar and olive oil. This is how we cook our steaks with chimichurri in Uruguay/Argentina!
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Ingredients 
 

Chimichurri:

  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 cup parsley finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic finely chopped or minced
  • 2 red chilies or 1 red chili, deseeded and finely chopped, about 1 tablespoon finely chopped chili
  • 3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 – 1 teaspoon coarse salt leveled, adjust to your tastes
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper adjust to your tastes

Steaks:

  • 4 steak Rib eye, T-Bone or Strip
  • 1 pinch salt to season
  • 1 drizzle olive oil for brushing

Instructions 

For Chimichurri

  • Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Allow to sit for 5-10 minutes to release all of the flavours into the oil before using. (Chimichurri can be prepared and refrigerated for 24 hours before serving.) 
    Makes 1 cup.
  • Season steaks with salt and brush with olive oil. Grill (or pan fry in a hot cast iron skillet or pan), over medium-high heat.
  • Cook for 2-3 minutes each side for medium-rare; 3-4 minutes each side for medium; or 4-5 minutes each side for well done, depending on thickness.*  Transfer steaks to a tray and let rest for 5 minutes.
  • Serve chimichurri on the side in a dip bowl with steaks (about 2-3 tablespoons of chimichurri per person). Allow your guests to either dip their steaks in chimichurri or pour it over steaks.

Notes

Steak doneness:

To test if the steak is cooked to your liking, press the centre with the back of a pair of tongs. The steak will feel soft when rare; slightly firmer and springy when medium, and very firm when well done.

If using a meat thermometer:

  • 130°F (55°C) internal temperature for RARE
  • 135°F (58°) internal temperature for MEDIUM RARE
  • 140°F (60°) internal temperature for MEDIUM
  • 150°F (65°) internal temperature for WELL DONE

Nutrition

Calories: 730kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 46g | Fat: 59g | Saturated Fat: 18g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 35g | Cholesterol: 138mg | Sodium: 426mg | Potassium: 743mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 888IU | Vitamin C: 43mg | Calcium: 43mg | Iron: 5mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Tried this? Leave a comment below!
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4.91 from 11 votes

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17 Comments

  1. Fred Rice says:

    5 stars
    My wife and I are avid foodies and amateur cooks and wine enthusiasts. There really are tons of versions (some similar) to this one of Churrasco (Chimichurri) out there. I decided to try yet another one, this one. I must say, given the short list of ingredients and the simple prep I was skeptical that the recipe could yield as much flavor as it did. This will be our go to chimichurri for the future. I added a tiny dash of time and rosemary to it for our flank steak which was not marinated, just sprinkled with salt and pepper and put in the fridge over night.
    Thank you so much for sharing your story and this amazing sauce recipe!

    1. Fred Rice says:

      5 stars
      I noticed spell check grabbed “thyme” and changed it to “time”. It must be the universe reminding me how much time this recipe saved me. No pulling out the food processor, very little clean up. Kudos again!

  2. Paula says:

    5 stars
    I made this for a dinner party with ribeye and everyone loved it! Cannot wait to have it again.

  3. Ron says:

    5 stars
    this has to be one o the best chimichurri recipes I’ve found. I just made a batch to go an a picanha I’m doing for Labor Day.

  4. Gail says:

    The steak was perfectly rare and that sauce!!!! Match made in heaven. So easy and so amazing!!!

  5. Jose says:

    Chimichurri is a great sauce for steak. I’ve made my own Chimichurri, and I usually serve it with strip, skirt, and hanger steak. I’ve also found it to be delicious with lamb chops.

  6. Jeff says:

    5 stars
    My wife has never liked chimichuri but she liked this recipe and so do I. Karina, why did your father use dried oregano? Wouldn’t fresh be much better?

    1. Karina says:

      I totally agree! I do love fresh oregano and you are welcome to use it instead. The dried oregano is more stronger in flavor though and it holds up better in the sauce. Hope that helps! XO

  7. Sheryl Chesivoir says:

    Unbelievably delicious!! Made this sauce to use with simply grilled salmon (salt, pepper & a few pea-sized pieces of butter) on the BBQ. Everyone loved it!! This is a keeper!!

  8. Melanie says:

    4 stars
    this looks Fantastic. I am going to run to the store to get the ingredients and cook tonight for dinner. Any suggestions for side dishes?

  9. Stella Hampers says:

    5 stars
    Amazing, love this sauce with a juicy sirloin and chips. I always add a bit of ghost chilli to give it a bit of an extra kick, can’t beat it!

  10. Jeannie Johansen says:

    I am going to have to try this. Just reading about it my mouth is watering!