Tender sous vide steak wrapped in warm flour tortillas with melted cheddar, sautéed bell peppers, and fresh herbs — finished with a lime wedge and a touch of creamy chipotle sauce. This recipe brings together gourmet cooking technique and classic taco flavors for an elevated yet approachable dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These sous vide steak tacos combine precision cooking with bold Tex-Mex flavors. The sous vide method ensures the steak is perfectly cooked and tender every time. Paired with melty sharp cheddar, sweet peppers, and a smoky chipotle mayo, each bite delivers a satisfying contrast of textures and tastes. Whether for a casual dinner or a special taco night, this dish is both impressive and easy to prepare.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the steak:

flank or skirt steak
salt and pepper
olive oil (for searing)

For the tacos:

small flour tortillas
shredded sharp cheddar cheese
yellow bell pepper, sliced
fresh basil or cilantro leaves
olive oil (for sautéing)
lime, halved

For the chipotle mayo (optional):

mayonnaise
chipotle paste or adobo sauce
lime juice

directions

Season the steak with salt and pepper. Vacuum seal and cook sous vide at 130°F (54°C) for 2 hours for medium-rare.
Once done, remove the steak from the bag and pat it dry thoroughly.
Heat oil in a pan and sear the steak for 1 minute per side until browned. Slice thinly against the grain.
In another pan, sauté sliced bell pepper in olive oil until tender and slightly charred. Set aside.
Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
Assemble tacos by layering sliced steak, sautéed peppers, and shredded cheddar on each tortilla.
Cover briefly to melt the cheese if desired.
Garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime.
For the chipotle mayo, mix mayonnaise, chipotle paste, and lime juice. Serve as a dip or drizzle.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours (sous vide) + 10 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 2 servings (2 tacos each)
Calories per serving: 420 kcal

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce to the tacos.
Vegetarian Alternative: Replace steak with grilled mushrooms or tempeh and skip the sous vide.
Different Cheese: Try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a milder or spicier profile.
Low-Carb Option: Serve the steak and toppings in lettuce wraps.
Add Crunch: Include shredded lettuce or cabbage for added texture.

storage/reheating

Store leftover steak and vegetables separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the steak gently in a skillet or microwave to maintain tenderness. Tortillas are best served fresh but can be briefly warmed again on a dry skillet. Chipotle mayo should be refrigerated and used within 3–4 days.

FAQs

What is sous vide cooking?

Sous vide is a method of cooking food in a vacuum-sealed bag in a water bath at a precise temperature for an extended period, ensuring even and tender results.

Can I cook the steak without sous vide?

Yes, you can grill or pan-sear the steak to your desired doneness, though it won’t be as evenly cooked as with sous vide.

What cut of beef works best?

Flank or skirt steak is ideal due to its flavor and texture, especially when sliced thinly across the grain.

How do I vacuum seal the steak?

Use a vacuum sealer or a zip-top bag with the water displacement method to remove air before sealing.

Is chipotle mayo necessary?

It’s optional but highly recommended for added smoky flavor. You can also use plain mayo or another dip.

Can I use corn tortillas instead?

Yes, corn tortillas offer a gluten-free alternative and a slightly different texture and flavor.

What’s the best way to melt the cheese?

Cover the assembled tacos with a lid or foil for a minute or two after adding cheese to help it melt.

Can I make these ahead of time?

The steak and toppings can be prepared in advance, but assemble the tacos just before serving for best texture.

How do I keep the steak juicy?

Avoid overcooking and slice it against the grain to maintain tenderness.

What herbs go well with these tacos?

Fresh cilantro or basil adds brightness and freshness that complements the savory ingredients.

Conclusion

Sous Vide Steak Tacos with Cheddar and Peppers offer a gourmet twist on a beloved classic. With tender, precisely cooked steak, flavorful toppings, and a creamy chipotle sauce, these tacos elevate weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Easy to customize and packed with flavor, they’re a must-try for any taco enthusiast.