Craving sizzling steak fajitas but don't have a grill? No problem! This guide shows you how to achieve restaurant-quality steak fajitas right on your stovetop. Get ready for a flavor explosion!
Ingredients for the Best Stovetop Steak Fajitas
This recipe serves 2-4 people. Adjust quantities as needed.
- 1.5 lbs flank steak or skirt steak: These cuts are lean and flavorful, perfect for fajitas. Look for well-marbled pieces for maximum tenderness.
- 1 large bell pepper (any color): Red, green, yellow, or orange – the choice is yours!
- 1 large onion: White or yellow onions work best.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Use a high-heat oil with a neutral flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning: You can buy pre-made seasoning or make your own (recipe below!).
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste.
- Flour or corn tortillas: Warm them gently before serving.
- Toppings: Your favorites! Consider shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, guacamole, shredded cheese, and salsa.
Homemade Fajita Seasoning (Optional)
If you want to control the ingredients and sodium level, making your own seasoning is easy:
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Guide to Stovetop Steak Fajitas
1. Prepare the Steak: Pat the steak dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a good sear. Season generously with salt, pepper, and fajita seasoning on both sides. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
2. Prep the Vegetables: Slice the bell pepper and onion into thin strips.
3. Sear the Steak: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steak and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned.
4. Cook the Steak to Perfection: Reduce the heat to medium. Continue cooking the steak for another 5-7 minutes for medium-rare, or longer for your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
5. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, add the sliced bell peppers and onions. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until tender-crisp.
6. Slice and Serve: Once the steak has rested, slice it thinly against the grain. This makes it incredibly tender. Serve the sliced steak and sautéed vegetables in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings.
Tips for the Perfect Stovetop Steak Fajitas
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If your steak is too large for your pan, cook it in batches to ensure proper searing.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to guarantee your steak is cooked to your liking.
- Rest the steak: Allowing the steak to rest helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different toppings to find your perfect combination.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use other cuts of steak?
A: While flank and skirt steak are ideal, you can also use sirloin or ribeye, but be mindful of cooking times. Thicker cuts will require longer cooking.
Q: How can I make this recipe spicier?
A: Add more cayenne pepper to the seasoning, or use a spicier chili powder. You can also add a few slices of jalapeño pepper to the vegetables while sautéing.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the vegetables and seasoning ahead of time. It's best to cook the steak and vegetables just before serving to ensure optimal flavor and texture.
Enjoy your delicious and easy stovetop steak fajitas! Let us know in the comments how yours turned out!
