Introduction
Looking for a delicious and easy meal that brings the family together? These savory beef fajitas are a perfect choice! Using fresh ingredients and a mix of spices, this recipe is not only flavorful but also allows everyone to customize their own fajitas with their favorite garnishes.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 pounds beef skirt steak, sliced thin into ½-inch strips
– 1 large red onion, sliced thin
– 4 bell peppers, sliced thin
– 8 ounces baby Bella mushrooms, quartered
– 1½ tablespoons lime juice
– 2 tablespoons oil
– 1 tablespoon kosher sea salt
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– ½ tablespoon dried oregano
– 1½ tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon cumin
– ¼ tablespoon paprika
– ½ tablespoon garlic powder
– Cooking spray
Prep Time
Approximately 15 minutes, plus marinating time.
Cook Time
About 20-25 minutes.
Total Time
Around 35-40 minutes, including preparation and cooking.
Yield
Serves 4-6 people.
Instructions
1. In a large Ziploc bag, combine lime juice, oil, sea salt, brown sugar, dried oregano, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. Add the sliced steak to the bag, seal, and marinate while preparing the vegetables.
2. Preheat the oven to 400°F and spray a sheet pan with cooking spray.
3. Place the sliced red onion, bell peppers, and mushrooms on one side of the prepared sheet pan.
4. Remove the steak from the marinade using tongs, allowing excess marinade to drip off, and place the steak on the other side of the sheet pan.
5. Drizzle any remaining marinade over the vegetables and steak.
6. Toss the vegetables and steak to coat evenly, then spread them out in a single layer on the sheet pan.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the steak is browned on the outside. If needed, cook for an additional 5 minutes to reach the desired doneness.
8. While the fajita mixture is cooking, prepare the garnishes: warm the tortillas, chop fresh cilantro, shred cheese, and slice avocado.
9. Once cooked, serve the steak and vegetables directly from the sheet pan, allowing everyone to build their own fajitas with the prepared garnishes.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a large Ziploc bag, combine lime juice, oil, sea salt, brown sugar, dried oregano, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. Add the sliced steak to the bag, seal it, and marinate while preparing the vegetables.
2. Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F and spray a sheet pan with cooking spray.
3. Arrange the Vegetables
Place the sliced red onion, bell peppers, and mushrooms on one side of the prepared sheet pan.
4. Add the Steak
Remove the steak from the marinade using tongs, allowing excess marinade to drip off, and place the steak on the other side of the sheet pan.
5. Drizzle Remaining Marinade
Drizzle any remaining marinade over the vegetables and steak.
6. Toss and Spread
Toss the vegetables and steak to coat evenly, then spread them out in a single layer on the sheet pan.
7. Bake the Fajitas
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the steak is browned on the outside. If needed, cook for an additional 5 minutes to reach the desired doneness.
8. Prepare the Garnishes
While the fajita mixture is cooking, prepare the garnishes: warm the tortillas, chop fresh cilantro, shred cheese, and slice avocado.
9. Serve
Once cooked, serve the steak and vegetables directly from the sheet pan, allowing everyone to build their own fajitas with the prepared garnishes.
Notes
Marination Time
For best flavor, marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight if time allows.
Vegetable Options
Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables such as zucchini or corn for variety.
Adjusting Spice Levels
You can adjust the amount of chili powder and cumin to your preferred spice level.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Marinating the beef skirt steak in a mixture of lime juice, oil, and spices enhances its flavor and tenderness. Allow the steak to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours for maximum effect.
Roasting
Cooking the beef and vegetables in the oven at a high temperature (400°F) allows for even cooking, caramelization, and browning. The direct heat helps to develop deep flavors in both the steak and vegetables.
Tossing
Tossing the vegetables and steak after placing them on the sheet pan ensures they are evenly coated with the marinade, promoting a balanced flavor in every bite.
Layering
Placing the vegetables on one side of the pan and the steak on the other helps control cooking times, as the steak may cook faster than the vegetables. This technique allows for the best texture in both components.
Serving
Serving the finished fajita mixture directly from the sheet pan encourages a communal dining experience. Allowing guests to build their own fajitas with a variety of garnishes adds personalization to each serving.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute other cuts like flank steak or sirloin, but cooking times may vary based on the cut’s thickness and tenderness.
How can I marinate the beef if I don’t have a Ziploc bag?
You can use a bowl, covering it with plastic wrap, or simply place the steak and marinade in any sealed container, ensuring it is well-coated.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables like zucchini, corn, or asparagus according to your preference.
What garnishes work well with these fajitas?
In addition to the suggested garnishes like fresh cilantro, cheese, sour cream, and avocado, you can also add salsa, jalapeños, or lime wedges for extra flavor.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
You can increase the chili powder in the marinade or add fresh sliced jalapeños or hot sauce during serving for an extra kick.
Conclusion
This beef skirt steak fajita recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, perfect for any gathering. The marinade infuses the steak with a zesty flavor while the roasted vegetables add a sweet and savory touch. Topped with fresh garnishes, these fajitas can be customized to suit every palate, making them a fantastic choice for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Taco Salad
Transform the fajita ingredients into a refreshing taco salad by layering the cooked beef and vegetables over a bed of lettuce, topped with cheese, avocado, salsa, and a dollop of sour cream.
Beef Fajita Quesadillas
Use the same beef and vegetable filling between two tortillas, sprinkle with cheese, and cook on a skillet until crispy and golden brown for a delicious quesadilla variation.
Stir-Fried Rice Bowl
Combine the cooked beef and vegetables with steamed rice and a drizzle of soy sauce for a flavorful stir-fried rice bowl that’s quick and satisfying.
Stuffed Peppers
Use the fajita filling to stuff halved bell peppers, top with cheese, and bake until the peppers are tender for a nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers.
Beef Fajita Nachos
Layer tortilla chips with the beef, roasted vegetables, cheese, and jalapeños, then bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly for a fun and shareable appetizer.
