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Chipotle Steak Recipe

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4.1 from 4 reviews

This Chipotle Steak recipe features tender top sirloin marinated in a smoky, spicy chipotle adobo sauce, then pan-seared to perfection. Ready in about an hour, it’s perfect for tacos, salads, burritos, or served on its own with bold southwestern flavors.

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Steak and Marinade Ingredients

  • 2 pounds top sirloin steak
  • 2 tablespoons neutral oil (like canola or avocado)
  • 4 ounces chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (about half of a 7-ounce can)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • ½ red onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, peeled
  • Juice of 2 limes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: Add chipotle peppers in adobo, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, chopped red onion, garlic cloves, lime juice, and 2 tablespoons of neutral oil to a blender. Blend until the mixture reaches a smooth, saucy consistency.
  2. Marinate the Steak: Place the top sirloin steak and the marinade into a resealable plastic bag or a lidded container. Shake or massage to evenly coat the steak. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 12 hours for deeper flavor.
  3. Heat the Skillet: Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil if needed to prevent sticking. Cook the steak in batches if necessary, depending on skillet size.
  4. Cook the Steak: Add the marinated steak slices to the skillet. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (medium rare), flipping once to sear both sides evenly. This typically takes about 4-5 minutes per side depending on thickness.
  5. Rest the Steak: Transfer the cooked steak to a cutting board and loosely cover with foil. Let it rest for 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
  6. Slice the Steak: Chop the rested steak into bite-size pieces, ready to be served.
  7. Serve: Enjoy the chipotle steak on its own, or use it as a flavorful filling for bowls, tacos, salads, or burritos.

Notes

  • Marinating for longer than 30 minutes, up to 12 hours, will deepen the flavor significantly.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches your preferred doneness safely.
  • Cast iron skillet provides the best sear, but a heavy-bottomed pan will work as well.
  • For a milder version, reduce the amount of chipotle peppers or remove seeds before blending.
  • Leftover steak can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Author: Monica
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Mexican