These Easy Flank Steak Fajitas are full of flavor and fun! With juicy strips of steak, colorful bell peppers, and onions, they’re a hit for any dinner.
When I make these, the sizzling sound in the pan always gets everyone excited! Serve them with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings—it’s like a fiesta on your plate! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak: This cut is perfect for fajitas due to its flavor. If it’s unavailable, try skirt steak or sirloin. They also work well when sliced thinly.
Bell Peppers: I use both red and green for color and sweetness. You can swap in yellow or orange bell peppers if you prefer a sweeter taste.
Onion: Yellow onions add a nice flavor; however, sweet onions or red onions can also be used. If you want a milder taste, go for sweet onions!
Spices: For that classic fajita flavor, cumin and chili powder are key. If you’re out of ground cumin, you can use coriander for a different twist.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the dish! You can substitute with lemon juice if lime isn’t available, but lime gives that authentic taste.
How Do You Ensure the Steak is Tender and Flavorful?
Getting tender flank steak is all about slicing it correctly and marinating it. Here’s how:
- Slice the steak against the grain; this helps break up the muscle fibers, making it tender.
- For even more flavor, marinate the steak in the rub for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the spices to soak in.
- Cook the steak quickly over high heat. Too long, and it gets tough.
- Let the steak rest after cooking for a few minutes. This keeps it juicy!
Easy Flank Steak Fajitas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for cooking
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Flour or corn tortillas, warmed
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced avocado or guacamole, salsa
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and approximately 15 minutes of cooking time, making the total time around 30 minutes. It’s a quick and flavorful meal perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Steak:
In a small bowl, mix together the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you’re using it), salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice blend all over the sliced flank steak for maximum flavor!
2. Cook the Steak:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering and hot, add the seasoned flank steak in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until it’s nicely browned and cooked to your preference. Then, remove the steak from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened yet still hold a bit of crunch, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
4. Add Garlic and Combine:
Add the minced garlic to the pan with the vegetables and cook for an additional minute, or until it’s fragrant. Then, return the cooked flank steak to the skillet and toss everything together. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the top, mixing well to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings with salt and pepper if needed.
5. Serve:
Take the skillet off the heat. Serve the warm steak and pepper mixture on the side with warmed tortillas. Don’t forget to include your favorite toppings, like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, avocado, or salsa!
Enjoy your flavorful, easy-to-make flank steak fajitas!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! If flank steak isn’t available, skirt steak or sirloin are great substitutes. They can all be sliced thinly for delicious fajitas!
How Do I Store Leftover Fajitas?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! Substitute the flank steak with sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or tofu, and follow the same cooking steps. You can also add beans for protein!
What Are Some Good Toppings for Fajitas?
Some popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole, sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, and fresh salsa. Get creative with your favorites! 🌮
