Sizzling Steak Fajitas Recipe: Authentic Tex-Mex Magic at Home

Searing hot griddles and mouthwatering spices make steak fajitas a culinary adventure that ignites taste buds.

Peppers and onions dance alongside tender meat strips in this classic Mexican-inspired dish.

Colorful ingredients promise an explosion of flavors waiting to delight you.

Southwest-style cooking brings excitement to your dinner table with minimal effort.

Each bite tells a story of bold seasonings and perfectly charred proteins.

Juicy steak marinated in zesty spices promises an unforgettable meal that satisfies deep hunger.

Y’all are about to experience a recipe that turns ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary feast.

Ingredients for Steak Fajitas

• Steak: A flavorful and tender meat cut that serves as the main protein in the fajitas.

• Olive Oil, Lime Juice, Soy Sauce: A zesty and savory mixture that tenderizes and adds depth of flavor to the steak.
• Chili Powder, Cumin, Smoked Paprika, Garlic Powder: Spices that provide a rich, warm, and smoky taste to the dish.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor profile.

• Bell Peppers, Onion: Colorful and crisp vegetables that add sweetness and texture to the fajitas.

• Flour Tortillas: Soft and warm wraps that hold the fajita ingredients.
• Fresh Cilantro: A bright and aromatic herb that adds a fresh garnish.
• Sour Cream, Salsa: Optional condiments that provide additional flavor and creaminess.

How to Cook Steak Fajitas

Step 1: Create Flavor-Packed Marinade

Combine olive oil, lime juice, soy sauce, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Whisk ingredients together until well blended. Add sliced steak to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Let the steak soak up the delicious flavors for 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Step 2: Sear the Steak to Perfection

Fire up a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place marinated steak slices into the hot pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until a beautiful brown crust forms and the meat is cooked to your desired doneness. Transfer the sizzling steak to a separate plate and set aside.

Step 3: Caramelize Colorful Vegetables

• Sliced bell peppers
• Sliced onions

Saute the vegetables for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Look for tender edges and slight charring that brings out their natural sweetness.

Step 4: Warm Up the Tortillas

Quickly heat flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until they’re soft and pliable.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve Fajitas

Pile the cooked steak and caramelized vegetables into warm tortillas. Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top. Offer sour cream and salsa on the side for extra flavor. Enjoy your homemade steak fajitas!

Pro Tips for Steak Fajitas

• Marinate the steak for maximum flavor by letting it sit in the zesty lime and spice mixture for up to 2 hours before cooking.
• Pat the steak dry before adding to the hot skillet to ensure a perfect golden-brown sear and prevent steaming.
• Slice the bell peppers and onions uniformly for even cooking and a professional-looking presentation.
• For a low-carb version, swap flour tortillas with lettuce wraps or serve over cauliflower rice.
• Keep the skillet hot and avoid overcrowding to achieve those delicious caramelized edges on the vegetables and meat.

Delicious Variations of Steak Fajitas

• Chicken Fajita Fusion: Swap steak with tender, marinated chicken breast slices for a leaner protein option that absorbs the zesty marinade perfectly.
• Seafood Sizzle: Replace beef with succulent shrimp or grilled fish for a coastal-inspired fajita experience that brings ocean flavors to your plate.
• Vegetarian Veggie Wrap: Use portobello mushrooms or tofu as the main protein, adding extra spices to create a hearty, plant-based alternative that doesn't compromise on taste.
• Spicy Southwest Style: Kick up the heat by adding jalapeños to the marinade and topping with pepper jack cheese for an extra fiery version of the classic fajita.

Pairing Recommendations for Steak Fajitas

• Pair Spicy Margaritas: Blend tequila, lime juice, and jalapeño for a zesty cocktail that matches the fajitas' bold, smoky flavors.
• Cool Down with Creamy Guacamole: Create a fresh, smooth guacamole with ripe avocados, cilantro, and lime to balance the steak's rich spiciness.
• Complement with Mexican Beer: Choose a crisp, light lager like Corona or Modelo to cut through the marinade's intense seasonings and refresh the palate.
• Enhance with Cilantro-Lime Rice: Prepare fluffy white rice with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime to provide a light, tangy side that complements the hearty fajitas.

Proper Storage for Steak Fajitas

• Store leftover steak fajitas in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Separate meat, peppers, and tortillas to maintain their texture.
• Wrap cooked steak and vegetables separately in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing tortillas as they can become soggy.
• Place meat and vegetables on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
• Warm a skillet over medium heat. Add meat and vegetables, stirring gently to prevent overcooking.

FAQs About Steak Fajitas

• How long should I marinate the steak?

The marinade should be between 30 minutes to 2 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat without breaking down its texture.

• Can I use a different type of meat for fajitas?

Chicken or shrimp work great as alternatives to steak. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the meat is fully cooked.

• What's the best way to get a good sear on the steak?

Use a hot skillet and avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures the steak browns nicely and develops a delicious caramelized exterior.

• Do I need any special equipment to make these fajitas?

A large skillet is the main tool you’ll need. A cast-iron skillet works best for achieving a great sear on the meat and vegetables.

Why Steak Fajitas Are a Flavorful Classic

• Speed Cooking: Prepare a delicious meal in minimal time with simple steps and quick marinating process.
• Flavor Explosion: Blend of spices like chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika creates a mouthwatering taste profile that transforms ordinary steak into a restaurant-worthy dish.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimize cleanup by using the same skillet for cooking steak, peppers, and onions, making this recipe perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
• Customizable Feast: Easily personalize with optional toppings like cilantro, sour cream, and salsa, allowing everyone to create their perfect fajita combination.

Steak Fajitas Recipe

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4.5 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 45-48 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Sizzling Mexican Steak Fajitas bring bold southwestern flavors straight to your dinner table. Fresh ingredients and simple techniques combine for a mouthwatering meal you’ll savor with every spicy, tender bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Proteins:

• 1 pound (454 grams) flank steak, thinly sliced

Vegetables and Seasonings:

• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Liquids and Accompaniments:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 8 small flour tortillas
• Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
• Sour cream (optional, for serving)
• Salsa (optional, for serving)

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Instructions

1. Whisk together a zesty marinade combining olive oil, lime juice, soy sauce, and an aromatic blend of spices including chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Immerse sliced steak in the marinade, ensuring complete coating, and allow to rest for 30 minutes to 2 hours for maximum flavor absorption.
3. Preheat a large skillet to medium-high heat, creating an ideal searing environment for the marinated steak.
4. Cook steak slices for 2-3 minutes per side, aiming for a rich brown exterior and desired doneness, then transfer to a holding plate.
5. Utilize the same skillet to sauté sliced bell peppers and onions, transforming them into tender, slightly charred vegetables with caramelized edges.
6. Gently warm flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave to enhance their pliability and temperature.
7. Assemble fajitas by layering seared steak, roasted peppers, and caramelized onions inside the warm tortillas.
8. Elevate the dish with fresh cilantro garnish and optional accompaniments like sour cream and salsa for a personalized touch.

Notes

• Marinate the steak for maximum flavor infusion and tenderness, aiming for at least 30 minutes but no more than 2 hours to prevent meat from becoming too soft.
• Choose high-quality, lean cuts like flank or skirt steak for the best texture and quick cooking time.
• Use cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan to achieve perfect caramelization and restaurant-style sear on meat and vegetables.
• Customize for dietary needs by substituting corn tortillas for gluten-free option or using plant-based protein like portobello mushrooms for vegetarian version.

• Prep Time: 35 minutes (including marinating time)
• Cook Time: 10-13 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 450 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 420 mg
• Fat: 27 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 21 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 32 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg