Name: Speedy Flank Steak Fajitas: 45 Min Magic
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb Flank Steak (or skirt steak); 2 tbsp Fajita Seasoning; 3 cloves Garlic, minced; 2 tbsp Lime Juice, fresh; 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce, optional; 1 tbsp Olive Oil, for marinating; 2 cups Bell Peppers, assorted colors, sliced; 1 medium Onion, red or yellow, sliced; 1 tbsp Olive Oil, for sautéing veggies; 1 cup Cilantro, chopped, for garnish; 2 Lime Wedges, for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Flank steak fajitas have become my go-to for a weeknight meal that feels special but is surprisingly quick to whip up. I remember the first time I tried making them; the sizzle of the steak hitting the hot skillet, the vibrant colors of the peppers and onions, and that incredible aroma filling my kitchen instantly made me a convert. This flank steak fajita recipe is so easy, you’ll be making it regularly. The tender, perfectly seasoned steak paired with crisp-tender veggies is just irresistible. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love These Flank Steak Fajitas

These flank steak fajitas are a game-changer for busy weeknights. Here’s why you’ll adore them:

Incredibly Flavorful: The marinade infuses the steak with amazing taste.
Quick to Prepare: You can have dinner on the table in about 45 minutes.
Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level or add your favorite veggies.
Easy Flank Steak Fajitas: This recipe is so straightforward, even beginners can master it.
Vibrant and Fresh: The colorful peppers and onions make for a beautiful presentation.
Healthy Options: Serve with lettuce wraps or whole wheat tortillas for a lighter meal.
Easy Flank Steak Fajitas: Seriously, they are one of the simplest yet most satisfying meals you can make.
Perfect for Sharing: They’re great for family dinners or casual get-togethers.

Flank Steak Fajitas Ingredients

Gathering the right flank steak fajitas ingredients is the first step to an amazing meal. My favorite part is how simple and fresh everything is. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb Flank Steak (or skirt steak) – choose a good quality cut for tenderness
2 tbsp Fajita Seasoning – store-bought or your own blend works
3 cloves Garlic, minced – fresh garlic makes a huge difference
2 tbsp Lime Juice, fresh – brightens up all the flavors
1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce, optional – adds a savory depth
1 tbsp Olive Oil, for marinating – helps distribute the marinade
2 cups Bell Peppers, assorted colors, sliced – for that classic fajita pop of color and crunch
1 medium Onion, red or yellow, sliced – sweetness and bite
1 tbsp Olive Oil, for sautéing veggies – just enough to get them tender-crisp

How to Make Flank Steak Fajitas

Making these flavorful flank steak fajitas is so satisfying, and the process is quite simple. I love how the marinade tenderizes the steak and how quickly everything comes together. Follow these steps for a truly delicious meal.

Marinate the Steak

Step 1: Start by marinating the steak. In a bowl, combine your flank steak strips with the fajita seasoning, minced garlic, fresh lime juice, Worcestershire sauce (if you’re using it), and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This flank steak fajita marinade is key for flavor. Let it sit for at least 2 hours, but for the absolute best taste, I let mine go up to 8 hours in the fridge.

Prepare Vegetables

Step 2: While the steak marinates, prepare your veggies. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet, preferably cast iron, over medium-high heat. Add your sliced onions and assorted bell peppers. Sauté these for about 5-6 minutes. You want them to be tender but still have a nice bit of crispness to them. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside for now.

Speedy Flank Steak Fajitas: 45 Min Magic - Flank Steak Fajitas - additional detail

Cook the Steak

Step 3: Now for the star! Add the marinated flank steak strips to that same hot skillet. You’ll hear that wonderful sizzle! Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes per side. For the most tender results, I aim for medium-rare. The caramelization you get from searing is what makes these flank steak fajitas so delicious and beautiful.

Assemble Fajitas

Step 4: Time to bring it all together! Layer the perfectly cooked steak strips over the sautéed vegetables on a platter. Sprinkle generously with fresh cilantro and add a few lime wedges for squeezing. This is where your flank steak fajitas seasoning really shines. Serve them immediately with warm tortillas for the ultimate experience.

Pro Tips for the Best Flank Steak Fajitas

Want to elevate your fajita game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make these best flank steak fajitas truly shine. Trust me, these simple tips make all the difference in achieving that perfect restaurant-quality flavor and texture right in your own kitchen.

Slice against the grain: After cooking, always slice your flank steak against the grain for maximum tenderness. This breaks up the muscle fibers.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give your steak and veggies space in the skillet. Overcrowding steams them instead of searing, which is not ideal for fajitas.
Rest the steak: Let the cooked steak rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
Use a hot pan: A screaming hot skillet is crucial for getting that desirable sear and caramelization on both the steak and the vegetables.

What’s the secret to perfect flank steak fajitas?

The secret to perfect flank steak fajitas really lies in the marinade and the cooking technique. A good marinade, like my go-to with lime juice and spices, tenderizes the meat. Then, searing it quickly over high heat locks in those juices and creates that delicious crust.

Can I make flank steak fajitas ahead of time?

You can definitely prep components ahead! Marinate the steak up to 8 hours in advance. Slice your peppers and onions earlier in the day. Just cook them and the steak right before serving to ensure the best texture and flavor.

How do I avoid common mistakes with flank steak fajitas?

The biggest mistake is overcooking the flank steak; it can get tough quickly. Slicing with the grain instead of against it also results in chewy fajitas. For simple flank steak fajitas, just remember to slice thinly against the grain after resting!

Speedy Flank Steak Fajitas: 45 Min Magic - Flank Steak Fajitas - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Flank Steak Fajitas

Once you’ve mastered how to make flank steak fajitas, you’ll want to know the best ways to enjoy them. For a truly authentic flank steak fajitas experience, serving them with warm corn or flour tortillas is a must. I love to set out a variety of toppings so everyone can customize their own – think sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, shredded cheese, and pickled jalapeños for a little kick. For a lighter meal, consider serving the steak and veggie mixture over a bed of fluffy rice or seasoned quinoa, or even wrapped in crisp lettuce cups. You can find great tips on preparing vegetables for this.

Nutrition Facts for Flank Steak Fajitas

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for these delicious flank steak fajitas, estimated per serving. This makes it easy to see what you’re enjoying!

Calories: 350 kcal
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Protein: 30 g
Carbohydrates: 12 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 800 mg
Cholesterol: 80 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Flank Steak Fajitas

I love that these flank steak fajitas are great for leftovers, making them a fantastic meal prep option. Once they’ve cooled slightly, I usually portion any remaining steak and veggie mixture into airtight containers. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store them for longer, you can freeze the cooked fajita filling for up to 3 months. For reheating, I find the best way to revive them is to warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This method helps retain the texture better than microwaving, giving you almost-fresh fajitas! You can learn more about grains that pair well with this dish.

Frequently Asked Questions About Flank Steak Fajitas

What’s the best cut of meat for fajitas?

While flank steak is my absolute favorite for fajitas because of its great flavor and texture when cooked properly, you can also use skirt steak. Many people wonder about skirt steak vs flank steak for fajitas. Skirt steak is thinner and cooks even faster, often with a more intense beefy flavor. Both are excellent choices, but flank steak is a bit more forgiving if you’re new to making fajitas. For more information on different cuts of meat, check out resources on beef.

Can I use a different cooking method for flank steak fajitas?

Absolutely! If grilling is more your speed, you can easily adapt this recipe for grilled flank steak fajitas. Marinate the steak as usual, then grill over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes per side. You can also grill the peppers and onions in a grill basket or directly on the grates. For an even quicker option, you could try sheet pan flank steak fajitas by tossing everything with oil and seasoning on a baking sheet and roasting at a high temperature, though you might not get quite the same sear.

How do I store leftover flank steak fajitas?

Leftovers are great! Once cooled, store the cooked steak and veggie mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating is best done in a skillet over medium heat to bring back that delicious sizzle and texture. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it can make the steak a bit tough.

Are flank steak fajitas healthy?

These flank steak fajitas can definitely be a healthy meal! The steak provides lean protein, and the peppers and onions are packed with vitamins. To make them even healthier, you can skip the tortillas and serve the filling over a bed of lettuce or cauliflower rice. Choosing whole wheat or corn tortillas also offers more fiber than white flour tortillas.

Variations of Flank Steak Fajitas You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, there are so many fun ways to switch up your flank steak fajitas! I love experimenting with different flavors and methods. For instance, you can make super quick flank steak fajitas by using pre-cut veggies and a store-bought marinade if you’re really pressed for time. If you’re looking for a spicier kick, try adding some sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to your marinade or sautéing them with the other vegetables. For a healthier twist, skip the tortillas altogether and serve the flavorful steak and pepper mixture over a bed of crisp lettuce or cauliflower rice. You can even try a sheet pan flank steak fajitas approach by tossing everything with oil and seasoning on a baking sheet and roasting until tender.