Last Updated on August 29, 2025 by Casia Valdés
There’s something immensely satisfying about a dish that balances bold flavor, simplicity, and heartwarming nostalgia. Bistec en Salsa Verde delivers exactly that—a vibrant, green-hued sauce made with tangy tomatillos and mild chilies, wrapping around tender strips of beef sautéed with onions and peppers. Growing up, this was one of those meals that felt both special and homely. The aroma of simmering salsa verde would swell through the kitchen, promising an unforgettable meal filled with brightness, comfort, and a touch of warmth from the chiles.
This version brings that classic dish into your home kitchen with ease and authenticity. Whether you’re craving something quick for a weeknight or looking to bring a refreshing twist to taco night, this recipe combines juicily tender beef with bold, bright salsa verde for an unforgettable experience. Garnish with cilantro, serve over rice or in tortillas, and enjoy a meal that sings of real Mexican flavors without any unnecessary fuss.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Simple ingredients, deep flavor
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Vibrant homemade green sauce using fresh tomatillos and jalapeños
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Tender, flavorful beef that simmers in salsa for a juicy bite
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One-pan preparation for easy cleanup
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Perfect for tacos, rice bowls, or plated meals
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
For the Beef & Vegetables
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1 lb flank or skirt steak, thinly sliced
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1 medium onion, sliced
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2 medium green bell peppers, sliced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tbsp olive oil
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Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Salsa Verde
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6–8 tomatillos, husked and rinsed
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2–3 jalapeños (adjust for heat preference)
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1 small bunch cilantro (about ¼ cup chopped)
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½ small onion, roughly chopped
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2 cloves garlic
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Juice of 1 lime
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Salt, to taste
Optional: Serve with warm tortillas, rice, or fresh cilantro wedges
Instructions
Prepare the Salsa Verde
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Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Add tomatillos and jalapeños. Cook for about 10 minutes until the tomatillos become translucent and slightly softened.
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Let them cool slightly, then transfer to a blender.
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Add cilantro, rough-chopped onion, garlic, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.
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Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside.
Cook the Beef and Veggies
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Season sliced steak with salt and pepper.
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Add beef to the skillet and cook 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
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Transfer beef to a plate and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add sliced onion and bell peppers.
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Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
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Add minced garlic and cook another 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
Combine and Simmer
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Pour the prepared salsa verde into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables.
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Scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.
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Return cooked beef to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce.
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Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
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Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve over steamed white rice or Spanish rice
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Pair with warm corn or flour tortillas
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Use as a taco or burrito filling
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Top with crumbled queso fresco or sliced avocado
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Add a drizzle of Mexican crema and lime wedges
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Serve alongside refried or black beans for a full meal
Tips & Variations
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Spice level: Use fewer jalapeños or remove seeds for a milder dish
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Veggie boost: Add zucchini, chayote, or corn to bulk it up
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Roasted option: Roast tomatillos and jalapeños for smoky flavor
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Beef alternative: Use thinly sliced sirloin or chuck steak
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Prep ahead: Make salsa verde up to 3 days in advance and store in the fridge
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute canned tomatillos?
Yes, canned tomatillos work well. Reduce added liquid slightly since canned versions contain more moisture.
Is this dish spicy?
It’s mild to moderately spicy. Adjust jalapeños to suit your preference.
What makes salsa verde unique?
Salsa verde is made with tomatillos and green chiles, offering a tangy, herbaceous flavor that contrasts beautifully with the richness of beef.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
Can I use a slow cooker?
Yes. Sauté beef and vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and let it simmer on low for 3–4 hours.
Final Thoughts
Bistec en Salsa Verde is a dish that captures the heart and soul of traditional Mexican cooking. It’s the kind of recipe that speaks to simplicity while delivering bold, refreshing, and savory flavor. The tartness of tomatillos blends beautifully with the mild heat of jalapeño and the richness of beef, creating a balance that’s incredibly satisfying.
This meal doesn’t just fill your stomach—it offers a sense of comfort and culinary joy. It invites customization, experimentation, and most importantly, sharing. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this recipe will find a permanent place on your menu.
Bistec en Salsa Verde (Mexican Beef with Green Sauce)
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Add tomatillos and jalapeños. Cook for about 10 minutes until the tomatillos become translucent and slightly softened.
- Let them cool slightly, then transfer to a blender.
- Add cilantro, rough-chopped onion, garlic, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.
- Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season sliced steak with salt and pepper.
- Add beef to the skillet and cook 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
- Transfer beef to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add sliced onion and bell peppers.
- Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
- Add minced garlic and cook another 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine and Simmer
- Pour the prepared salsa verde into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables.
- Scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.
- Return cooked beef to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce.
- Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
