Steak Fajitas Recipe: Flavor-Packed Skirt Steak with Peppers and Onions

Posted by Posted: Silvy 16 October 2024
Steak Fajitas Recipe: Flavor-Packed Skirt Steak with Peppers and Onions

Steak Fajitas Recipe: Flavor-Packed Skirt Steak with Peppers and Onions

Steak fajitas are a timeless Tex-Mex classic, and this recipe will bring that restaurant-quality experience to your home kitchen.

Our skirt steak fajitas are marinated in a delicious homemade mix, ensuring tender, juicy bites packed with flavor.

This dish is all about pairing flavorful steak with sautéed onions and peppers and letting everyone customize their fajitas with their favorite toppings like guacamole, sour cream, and Mexican cheese.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step to ensure your steak fajitas turn out perfectly every time. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Steak Fajitas Recipe

  • Bursting with Flavor: The marinade is packed with spices and a hint of sweetness, complementing the savory steak.
  • Quick and Easy: With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you’ll have this meal on the table in under an hour.
  • Customizable Toppings: Make it your own by adding your favorite extras like salsa, cheese, or jalapeños.

How to Make the Best Steak Fajitas

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade and Season the Steak

The secret to tender, flavorful fajitas is a good marinade. We use a blend of chili powder, cumin, lime juice, and a touch of brown sugar for the perfect balance of heat and tang. Here’s how you can make it:

Ingredients for the Marinade:

  • 1 ½ tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp oregano
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 3 tbsp avocado oil (can sub olive oil)
  • ¼ cup lime juice
  • 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 2 tsp hot sauce
  • 2 tsp brown sugar
  • ⅛ tsp cinnamon

Instructions:

  1. Start by tenderizing the steak with a meat mallet.
  2. Generously season it with salt and rub the spice mix all over the steak.
  3. Place the steak in a gallon-sized freezer bag and add the marinade. Let it sit for about 25-30 minutes at room temperature while preparing the veggies.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

After marinating, it’s time to sear the steak to lock in all those delicious flavors.

  1. Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil.
  2. Sear the steak for about 3 minutes on each side or until it reaches your desired doneness.
  3. Once cooked, set the steak aside and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Peppers

While your steak is resting, toss some onions and peppers into the skillet.

Ingredients for the Veggies:

  • 2 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
  • 1 small red onion, sliced
  • Salt to taste
  1. In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, and sauté the sliced onions and peppers for 5-7 minutes.
  2. Season with salt and the remaining fajita seasoning mix to enhance the flavors.

Step 4: Combine Everything and Serve

Once the veggies are tender, add the sliced steak back into the skillet and toss to combine. Serve your steak fajitas with warm tortillas and all the toppings you desire.

Topping Suggestions:

  • Sour cream
  • Sliced avocado or guacamole
  • Salsa or diced tomatoes
  • Mexican cheese
  • Jalapeños
  • Cilantro

Pro Tips for Perfect Steak Fajitas

  1. Cut Against the Grain: Always slice the steak against the grain to ensure tender bites.
  2. Marinating Time: For best results, marinate the steak for at least 25-30 minutes, but no more than 4 hours.
  3. Cook the Steak Medium-Rare: Steak fajitas are best when the steak is juicy. Aim for a medium-rare cook (about 3 minutes per side) for maximum tenderness.
  4. Use a Hot Skillet: A hot skillet will give the steak a nice sear and prevent it from overcooking.
  5. Customize Toppings: The beauty of fajitas is that they’re customizable. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings.

What Cut of Steak is Best for Fajitas?

While skirt steak is the classic cut used for fajitas, you can also use flank steak, sirloin, flat iron, or even strip steak.

Skirt steak has a rich, beefy flavor that stands up well to the bold seasoning and marinade, but all these cuts will work if prepared properly.

Serving and Storing Steak Fajitas

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the fajita filling for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When reheating, use a skillet on medium heat to ensure the steak doesn’t overcook.

Frequently Asked Questions About Steak Fajitas

What’s the best way to tenderize skirt steak?


Tenderizing skirt steak with a meat mallet helps break down the muscle fibers, making it more tender. Marinating also plays a crucial role in adding flavor and further tenderizing the meat.

Can I use chicken instead of steak for fajitas?


Yes! Simply swap out the steak for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. You can follow the same marinade and cooking process, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What kind of tortillas should I use for fajitas?


Flour tortillas are the traditional choice for fajitas, especially the smaller 6-inch size. However, you can also use corn tortillas if you prefer a gluten-free option.

How do I avoid overcooking the steak?


To avoid overcooking, sear the steak quickly over high heat and let it rest before slicing. It’s better to undercook slightly and adjust later, as overcooked steak will become tough.

What toppings go well with fajitas?


Popular fajita toppings include sour cream, avocado slices, salsa, diced tomatoes, cilantro, jalapeños, and Mexican cheese. Feel free to mix and match your favorites!

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