This easy steak fajita recipe is packed with flavor! You’ll love the juicy steak cooked with colorful bell peppers and onions, all wrapped in warm tortillas.
Making fajitas is so fun! I can’t resist piling on my favorite toppings like guacamole and salsa. Who knew dinner could be this tasty and simple? 🌮✨
I appreciate how quick this recipe is; just sauté the veggies and steak, and you’re ready to eat in no time. It’s a perfect weeknight meal the whole family will enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak: This cut is great for fajitas because it’s flavorful and cooks quickly. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, try using skirt steak or sirloin. Both work well and still provide that nice beefy taste.
Bell Peppers: I love using a mix of colors (red, yellow, and green) for both taste and visual appeal. If you have a favorite type of pepper, feel free to use only that one! Even poblano or jalapeño can add a nice kick.
Onion: Yellow onions are my go-to for sweetness, but feel free to swap in red onions for a bit more bite. You can even use shallots if you’re looking for a milder option.
Spices: The combination of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika adds depth. If you want to spice things up, try adding cayenne pepper or using a pre-made fajita seasoning mix.
Olive Oil: It’s what I use for cooking, but you can substitute with avocado oil or even vegetable oil if you prefer. Avocado oil has a higher smoke point and is great for searing.
How Do I Cook Flank Steak Without Overcooking It?
Cooking flank steak can be tricky as it cooks quickly and can easily become tough if overdone. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Slice the steak thinly against the grain. This helps it stay tender after cooking.
- Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Ensure it’s hot before adding the steak.
- Cook the steak in small batches if your skillet isn’t large enough. This prevents steaming and helps it brown nicely.
- Keep cooking time to about 4-5 minutes. You can then check for doneness; it should be medium-rare to medium.
Rest the steak for a few minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute. This tip helps keep your fajitas juicy and flavorful!
How to Make Easy Steak Fajitas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fajitas:
- 1 pound flank steak, sliced thinly against the grain
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Tortillas (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend roughly 5 minutes on the steak and another 5-7 minutes on the vegetables. A quick dish that’s packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Steak:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced flank steak. Season it with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook the steak for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked to your liking. Once done, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Then, toss in the sliced onion and bell pepper. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and have a nice caramelized color. This adds sweetness and flavor to your fajitas!
3. Combine Everything Together:
Return the cooked steak to the skillet with the sautéed onions and peppers. Stir everything together, and let it heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes. This helps all those delicious flavors meld together.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the fajitas. For serving, warm your tortillas and fill them with the steak and vegetable mixture. Don’t forget to add lime wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze. Enjoy your easy steak fajitas!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef for Fajitas?
Absolutely! While flank steak is a popular choice, you can also use skirt steak, sirloin, or even ribeye. Just remember to cut against the grain for tenderness, regardless of the cut you choose.
Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
Yes, you can use other oils like canola oil, vegetable oil, or avocado oil. Each will work well, but they may have slightly different flavors. If you prefer a richer taste, you might even try using a bit of butter instead!
How Do I Store Leftover Fajitas?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, gently reheat them in a skillet on medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Can I Make the Vegetables and Steak Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the steak and vegetables a day in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, sauté them together in a skillet for a quick reheat. This is a great way to save time on busy nights!
