By Bill Ohaire | Published: April 2026 | Last Updated: April 2026
Quick Answer
Chimichurri Beef Marinade: Combine 1 cup flat-leaf parsley (finely chopped), 4 cloves garlic (minced), 2 tbsp fresh oregano (or 1 tbsp dried), and more. Marinate 4 hours to 24 hours. Grill until internal temp reaches 54-63°C (130-145°F) depending on preference.
About This Marinade
This chimichurri marinade brings a herby, garlicky, vibrant flavour profile to your beef. An Argentine classic. Use as both a marinade and a finishing sauce. Best made fresh.
Marinate Time
4 hours - 24 hours
Flavour Profile
herby, garlicky, vibrant
Best Cuts
rump steak, sirloin, skirt steak, flank steak, kebab cubes
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
| flat-leaf parsley (finely chopped) | 1 cup |
| garlic (minced) | 4 cloves |
| fresh oregano (or 1 tbsp dried) | 2 tbsp |
| olive oil | 80ml |
| red wine vinegar | 2 tbsp |
| chilli flakes | 1 tsp |
| salt and pepper | As needed |
Tougher cuts like skirt and flank benefit most from marinating. Premium cuts like eye fillet need less time.
How to Make Chimichurri Beef Marinade
- Combine: Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl or ziplock bag until well combined.
- Prep the beef: Pat the beef dry with paper towel. Trim any excess fat if needed.
- Marinate: Add the beef to the marinade, making sure every piece is well coated. Refrigerate for 4 hours minimum, up to 24 hours for deeper flavour.
- Bring to temp: Remove from the fridge 20-30 minutes before cooking to take the chill off. This helps it cook more evenly.
- BBQ: Shake off excess marinade and grill over high heat (220-260°C / 425-500°F) until the internal temperature reaches 54-63°C (130-145°F) depending on preference.
- Rest: Let the beef rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Chimichurri Beef
- Don't skip the rest — resting allows the juices to redistribute for a juicier result.
- Use a meat thermometer — the only reliable way to know your beef is done is by checking the internal temperature.
- Reserve some marinade — set aside a portion before adding raw meat to use as a finishing sauce or baste.
- Oil the grates — clean, oiled grates prevent sticking and give you better grill marks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Marinating too long in acid — especially with citrus or vinegar-based marinades, over-marinating can break down the surface and make it mushy.
- Grilling straight from the fridge — cold meat doesn't cook evenly. Let it come to room temperature first.
- Using the same marinade as a sauce — never reuse marinade that has touched raw meat. Always reserve a clean portion first.
- Overcrowding the BBQ — give each piece space so it sears rather than steams.
Best Beef Cuts for Chimichurri Marinade
The best cuts of beef for this marinade are: rump steak, sirloin, skirt steak, flank steak, kebab cubes.
Tougher, more flavourful cuts like skirt and flank steak benefit most from marinating. The acid helps break down connective tissue.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I marinate beef in chimichurri marinade?
Marinate beef in chimichurri marinade for 4 hours minimum for noticeable flavour, or up to 24 hours for deeper penetration. Overnight in the fridge is ideal for most cuts.
Can I use chimichurri marinade on other meats?
Yes! Chimichurri marinade works well on chicken and lamb too. Adjust the marinating time based on the protein — prawns only need 15-30 minutes.
Should I marinate beef in the fridge or at room temperature?
Always marinate in the fridge for food safety. Bacteria multiply rapidly at room temperature. Take the meat out 20-30 minutes before cooking to take the chill off for more even cooking.
What temperature should I BBQ chimichurri marinated beef?
Grill chimichurri marinated beef over high heat (220-260°C / 425-500°F). Cook until the internal temperature reaches 54-63°C (130-145°F) depending on preference.
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