This Easy Steak Fajita Bowl is packed with flavor and color! It features juicy steak, bell peppers, onions, and fluffy rice, all coming together for a tasty and satisfying meal.
It’s like having a fiesta right in your bowl! I love how quick it is to whip up, making dinner feel special any night of the week. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Flank or skirt steak works best for this dish. They’re tender and full of flavor. You can substitute with sirloin or chicken if you prefer a leaner option.
Bell Peppers: Red, green, and yellow peppers add color and sweetness. If you have poblano or even jalapeño for some kick, those work too! You can use frozen peppers in a pinch as well.
Rice: I used white or brown rice as a base. Quinoa or cauliflower rice is a great low-carb alternative. Just adjust cooking times for cauliflower rice!
Spices: Feel free to get creative! If you like it spicier, add more chili powder or some cayenne pepper. Fresh herbs can also brighten the dish.
How Do You Get the Steak Just Right?
Cooking steak can be tricky, but with a few simple steps, you’ll get it perfect every time. Here’s how:
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the steak; it should sizzle when it hits the pan.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking and nice browning.
- Let it rest after cooking for at least 5 minutes to keep it juicy. Then slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Easy Steak Fajita Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fajita Bowl:
- 1 lb (450g) flank steak or skirt steak
- 1 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado slices, salsa
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious steak fajita bowl will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes gathering and chopping everything, and then about 20 minutes cooking it all up and assembling your bowls.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Fajita Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This will be your flavorful fajita seasoning!
2. Season the Steak:
Pat the steak dry with paper towels. This helps it sear nicely! Rub the steak on both sides with half of the olive oil and then sprinkle the fajita seasoning on both sides as well, pressing it in gently.
3. Cook the Steak:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned steak to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare (adjust based on your preference). Once done, remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Then slice it thinly against the grain to keep it tender.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil if needed. Toss in the sliced bell peppers and onions. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and slightly charred. This will enhance their flavor beautifully!
5. Assemble Your Bowls:
Start with a base of cooked rice in each bowl. Then, add the sliced steak on top of the rice, followed by the sautéed peppers and onions. Give it a nice squeeze of fresh lime juice for that zesty kick!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish each bowl with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Feel free to add any optional toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado slices, or salsa. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious steak fajita bowl!
FAQ for Easy Steak Fajita Bowl
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat?
Absolutely! While flank or skirt steak is recommended for its flavor and tenderness, you can also use sirloin, chicken breast, or even shrimp. Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on the meat you’re using!
What If I Don’t Have All the Spices?
No problem! If you’re missing any spices, you can use a pre-made fajita seasoning mix. If you want to keep it simple, just salt and pepper will still add some flavor. Feel free to experiment with what you have on hand!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. For best texture, keep the rice and steak separate if possible until you’re ready to eat.
Can I Make This Bowl Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can substitute the steak with grilled veggies, tofu, or even beans for protein. The sautéed peppers and onions are already great, and you can add corn, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra flavor!
