Vegas Steak Tacos
Go all-in with these high-roller steak tacos! Inspired by Vegas's legendary steakhouses, tender prime beef is seared to perfection and topped with vibrant chimichurri. It's a jackpot in every bite.
Equipment Needed
Instructions
Make the chimichurri: In a food processor, combine parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and oregano. Pulse until finely chopped but not pureed. Season with salt and set aside.
Prep the steak: Remove steak from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature. Pat dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Sear the steak: Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat until smoking. Add olive oil, then carefully place the steak in the pan. Sear without moving for 3-4 minutes until a deep brown crust forms.
Flip and baste: Flip the steak and add butter and smashed garlic to the pan. Tilt the pan and continuously spoon the melted butter over the steak for 3-4 minutes until it reaches 130F for medium-rare.
Rest the steak: Transfer steak to a cutting board and tent loosely with foil. Let rest for 5-10 minutes. This is crucial - resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Slice the steak: Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. Cutting against the grain ensures tender bites.
Warm the tortillas: Char tortillas directly over a gas flame for 15-20 seconds per side, or heat in a dry skillet until pliable with light brown spots.
Assemble: Layer sliced steak on warm tortillas. Drizzle generously with chimichurri, top with sliced red onion and crumbled cotija cheese. Serve with lime wedges.
💡 Pro Tips & Variations
- Choose the right cut: Ribeye offers more marbling and flavor, while NY strip is leaner with a beefier taste. Both work beautifully.
- Don't skip the rest: A properly rested steak is juicier. Cutting too soon lets all those delicious juices escape onto the cutting board.
- Go premium: For the true Vegas experience, splurge on USDA Prime grade beef. The extra marbling is worth it.
- Compound butter option: Instead of chimichurri, top with blue cheese compound butter for a steakhouse variation.
- Reverse sear method: For thick steaks, try reverse searing - bake at 250F until 115F internal, then sear for the perfect crust.
- Save the drippings: Those pan drippings are liquid gold. Drizzle over the finished tacos for extra flavor.