Grilled Steak Fajitas Recipe

The Perfect Grilled Steak Fajitas Recipe for Sizzling Dinners

Crispy, colorful grilled steak fajitas promise a zesty adventure that’ll make your taste buds dance with excitement.

The sizzling combination of tender meat and vibrant peppers creates a mouthwatering experience.

Your kitchen will feel like a festive Mexican street market bursting with incredible aromas.

Juicy strips of marinated beef deliver bold flavors that speak directly to serious home cooks.

Charred edges and perfectly seasoned meat guarantee an unforgettable meal that comes together quickly.

Authentic spices and simple techniques mean you can craft restaurant-quality fajitas without complicated steps.

Grab your skillet and let’s turn an ordinary dinner into a celebration of delicious possibilities.

Different Ways To Make Grilled Steak Fajitas

  • Spicy Southwest Sizzler: Replace traditional marinade with chipotle peppers, cumin, and smoked paprika for a bold, fiery flavor profile that kicks up the heat and adds depth to the classic recipe.
  • Citrus Mediterranean Fusion: Swap out original marinade for lemon juice, oregano, garlic, and olive oil, creating a bright, zesty alternative that transforms the traditional steak fajitas with Mediterranean-inspired seasonings.
  • Herb Garden Gourmet: Use fresh rosemary, thyme, and parsley in the marinade, combining with white wine and garlic to infuse the steak with aromatic herb flavors that elevate the traditional preparation.
  • Asian-Inspired Umami Blend: Create a marinade using soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil, and rice vinegar, introducing rich, savory Asian-inspired notes that give the fajitas an unexpected global character.

Grilled Steak Fajitas FAQ

  • What type of steak works best for fajitas?

Flank steak or skirt steak are ideal because they’re flavorful, tender when sliced against the grain, and absorb marinades beautifully. They’re also traditionally used in authentic Mexican-style fajitas.

  • How do I know when the steak is cooked perfectly?

Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F. Remember to let the steak rest for 10 minutes after grilling, which helps retain juices and ensures even cooking.

  • Can I make these fajitas if I don't have a grill?

Absolutely! Use a cast-iron skillet or grill pan on the stovetop. The key is high heat and quick cooking to get those delicious caramelized edges on both the steak and vegetables.

  • Why is it important to slice the steak against the grain?

Cutting against the grain breaks up muscle fibers, making the meat more tender and easier to chew. This technique prevents tough, chewy meat and ensures a more enjoyable eating experience.

Why Grilled Steak Fajitas Are Bursting With Flavor

  • Speedy Weeknight Wonder: Whip up these mouth-watering steak fajitas in under an hour, making it a perfect quick and delicious dinner solution for busy families.
  • Grill-Friendly Flavor Explosion: Enjoy the smoky charred taste of perfectly grilled steak and vegetables that brings restaurant-quality meal right to your backyard.
  • Customize Your Culinary Adventure: Mix and match toppings, adjust spice levels, and create personalized fajitas that cater to everyone's taste preferences with minimal effort.
  • Minimal Prep, Maximum Taste: The simple marinade and straightforward grilling technique ensure impressive results without requiring advanced cooking skills or complicated techniques.

Ingredients For Grilled Steak Fajitas

Main Protein:
  • Steak: A flavorful cut perfect for grilling, with rich beefy taste that absorbs marinade beautifully. Flank or skirt steak works best for authentic fajitas.
Marinade Ingredients:
  • Lime Juice: Adds bright acidity and helps tenderize the meat. Fresh lime juice provides the best flavor.
  • Olive Oil: Creates a smooth base for marinade and helps distribute flavors. Extra virgin olive oil recommended.
  • Garlic, Chili Powder, Cumin: Classic Tex-Mex spices that provide deep, warm flavor profile to the meat.
Vegetable Components:
  • Bell Peppers, Onions: Colorful vegetables that become sweet and slightly charred when grilled. Mix red, green, and yellow peppers for visual appeal.
Serving Accompaniments:
  • Tortillas: Soft flour or corn tortillas serve as the wrap for the fajita filling. Warm before serving for best texture.
  • Optional Toppings: Cilantro, sour cream, salsa, guacamole can enhance the final dish. Fresh ingredients provide the best flavor.

Steps To Cook Grilled Steak Fajitas

Step 1: Marinate the Flavor Bomb

Whip up a zesty marinade that’ll make your taste buds dance. In a large ziplock bag or bowl, combine:
  • Fresh lime juice
  • Chopped garlic
  • Olive oil
  • Chili powder
  • Cumin
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Toss the steak into this flavor magic, seal it up, and let it chill in the refrigerator for a flavor-packed transformation.

Step 2: Fire Up the Grill

Get your grill roaring hot and ready for action. Remove the steak from its marinade bath and pat it dry with paper towels. Brush the grill grates with a light coat of oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Sear the Steak to Perfection

Lay the steak on the sizzling grill. Listen for that mouthwatering sear and watch for those beautiful grill marks. Cook each side until it reaches your desired doneness. For medium-rare lovers, aim for a internal temperature that hints at juicy tenderness.

Step 4: Char Those Veggie Companions

While the steak takes a quick rest, give some love to your peppers and onions. Toss them with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of seasoning. Spread them on the grill and let them get those irresistible char lines and smoky flavor.

Step 5: Slice and Assemble the Flavor Feast

Slice the steak against the grain to keep it tender and juicy. Gather your warm tortillas, grilled veggies, and an array of toppings. Create a fajita bar that’ll have everyone racing to the table.

Suggested Toppings:
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Creamy guacamole
  • Zesty salsa
  • Tangy sour cream
  • Shredded cheese
  • Lime wedges

Helpful Hints For Grilled Steak Fajitas

  • Maximize Marinade Flavor: Let the steak soak up the marinade for the full 8 hours to develop deeper, more complex taste profiles that'll make your fajitas irresistible.
  • Perfect Grill Temperature: Maintain medium-high heat to achieve those beautiful grill marks and seal in juices without burning the meat or vegetables.
  • Slice Like a Pro: Always cut steak against the grain to ensure tender, melt-in-your-mouth bites that won't require excessive chewing.
  • Veggie Grilling Hack: Use a grill basket to prevent smaller vegetable pieces from falling through the grates while still getting that delicious smoky char.
  • Customize for Dietary Needs: Swap flour tortillas for lettuce wraps to make the dish low-carb, or use plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian-friendly version that doesn't compromise on flavor.

How To Store Grilled Steak Fajitas Right

  • Refrigerate leftover fajitas in an airtight container within two hours of cooking.
  • Properly stored, grilled steak and vegetables will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Separate meat and vegetables when storing to maintain their individual textures and flavors.
  • Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or use sealed containers to prevent moisture loss and protect against absorbing other food odors.
  • Reheat refrigerated fajitas in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil to help restore moisture and prevent drying out.
  • Avoid freezing prepared fajitas, as the vegetables may become mushy and lose their crisp texture.
  • When ready to enjoy leftovers, consume within the recommended storage time to ensure the best taste and food safety.

Tasty Add-Ons For Grilled Steak Fajitas

  • Pair with Zesty Margarita: Mix tequila, lime juice, and triple sec for a refreshing cocktail that complements the steak's bold flavors. The citrusy kick cuts through the meat's richness and enhances the grilled peppers' smoky notes.
  • Match with Crisp Mexican Lager: Choose a light, cold beer like Corona or Modelo to balance the spicy marinade and grilled ingredients. Its clean, smooth taste provides a perfect counterpoint to the intense fajita flavors.
  • Serve with Tangy Salsa Verde: Blend tomatillos, jalapeños, cilantro, and lime for a bright, acidic sauce that adds depth to the steak and vegetables. The green salsa's freshness lifts the entire dish and creates a vibrant eating experience.
  • Accompany with Creamy Guacamole: Mash ripe avocados with lime, salt, and diced onions to create a rich, smooth side that softens the fajitas' robust flavors. Its buttery texture and cool temperature provide a delightful contrast to the hot, grilled ingredients.
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Grilled Steak Fajitas Recipe

Grilled Steak Fajitas Recipe


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4.8 from 30 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Sizzling Mexican Steak Fajitas bring Southwest passion to dinner tables with bold, zesty flavors. Tender marinated beef, charred peppers, and warm tortillas combine for a mouthwatering meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Meat:

  • 1.5 to 2 pounds (680 to 907 grams) flank steak or skirt steak

Marinade Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup (60 milliliters) olive oil
  • ¼ cup (60 milliliters) lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons (8 grams) chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Vegetables and Accompaniments:

  • 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
  • 1 large red onion, sliced
  • Olive oil, for grilling
  • Warm tortillas, for serving

Optional Toppings:

  • Avocado
  • Sour cream
  • Salsa
  • Cheese
  • Lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Prepare a flavorful marinade in a spacious container, thoroughly blending all seasonings to create a robust coating for the steak. Immerse the meat completely, ensuring even distribution, and refrigerate for a minimum of 60 minutes to allow deep flavor penetration.
  2. Ignite the grill to a robust medium-high temperature. Extract the marinated steak, meticulously patting it dry with paper towels to promote perfect caramelization. Lightly brush grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.
  3. Position the steak on the sizzling grill, allowing it to cook without frequent disruption. Monitor carefully, flipping once to achieve a beautiful cross-hatch of grill marks. Aim for a succulent medium-rare, with internal temperature hovering around 132-135°F.
  4. Transfer the grilled steak to a resting board, tenting loosely with aluminum foil to preserve its juicy essence. Let it relax for approximately 8-10 minutes, allowing internal juices to redistribute.
  5. While the steak recovers, prepare the vegetable medley. Toss colorful bell peppers and onions with a light drizzle of olive oil, seasoning with a sprinkle of salt and cracked black pepper.
  6. Arrange the seasoned vegetables on the grill, utilizing a specialized grilling basket or directly on the grates. Rotate periodically to ensure even charring and tender caramelization.
  7. Slice the rested steak against the grain into elegant, thin strips to maximize tenderness. Arrange on a warm platter alongside the fire-kissed vegetables and soft, warmed tortillas.
  8. Invite diners to craft their personalized fajitas, garnishing with fresh cilantro, zesty salsa, creamy guacamole, and tangy sour cream for a vibrant, interactive dining experience.

Notes

  • Customize the marinade by swapping citrus juices or adding different herbs to match your flavor preferences.
  • Tenderize tougher cuts of meat by piercing with a fork before marinating to help the flavors penetrate deeper.
  • Reduce cooking time for thinner slices of steak to prevent overcooking and maintain juiciness.
  • Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness and consistent results every time you grill.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
Dave Mitchell

Dave Mitchell

Founder & Chief Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Grilling Techniques and Innovations​
  • Recipe Development and Testing
  • Culinary Education and Workshops​
  • Food Photography and Styling

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and menu planning, with a special emphasis on grilling and outdoor cooking. ​


Dave Mitchell is the heart behind Daves Grill, a cook, writer, and lover of all things grilled. He studied Culinary Arts at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and spent years cooking, testing, and sharing recipes that actually work.

Dave started Daves Grill to keep things simple: one great recipe at a time. His food is bold, easy to follow, and made for real people with regular kitchens. From juicy steaks to quick sides, Dave’s recipes bring the heat without the hassle.

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