Sheet Pan Steak Fajitas with Bell Peppers
Looking for a delicious and easy homemade dinner recipe? These Sheet Pan Steak Fajitas with Bell Peppers are perfect for a weeknight meal. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare a flavorful, healthy dinner all on one pan.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Steak: Flank steak or skirt steak are best. You can substitute with chicken breast for a different fajita experience.
- Bell Peppers: Use a mix of colors (red, yellow, orange) for visual appeal and varied flavor. Any color works!
- Onion: Red onion or yellow onion.
- Fajita Seasoning: Store-bought blend is convenient. You can make your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne.
- Olive Oil: Or any neutral cooking oil.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 1.5 pounds flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 3 bell peppers (any color), cored and thinly sliced
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning blend
- Juice of 1 lime (for serving)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish, optional)
For Serving (Optional):
- Warm tortillas
- Salsa
- Guacamole or avocado slices
- Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools: Large baking sheet, mixing bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Steak and Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice your flank steak thinly against the grain for tenderness. Then, core and slice your bell peppers and onion into thin strips.
2. Season Everything Together
In a large bowl, combine the sliced steak, bell peppers, and onion. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with fajita seasoning. Toss everything together until thoroughly coated.
3. Arrange on the Sheet Pan
Spread the seasoned steak and vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; this helps everything cook evenly and get a nice char.
4. Bake to Perfection
Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the steak is cooked through and the vegetables are tender-crisp. For a little extra char, you can broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully.
5. Serve Your Homemade Dinner
Remove the sheet pan from the oven. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the fajitas and sprinkle with fresh cilantro, if using. Serve immediately with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings for a fantastic homemade dinner.
Variation Ideas:
- Add sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
- Include sliced zucchini or mushrooms with the bell peppers.
- Try a different protein, like shrimp or firm tofu, adjusting cook time as needed.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Sheet Pan Steak Fajitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a microwave or on a stovetop over medium heat until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can you prepare the ingredients ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can slice the steak and vegetables up to a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
Q: How do you prevent the steak from being tough?
A: Slice the steak thinly against the grain, and be careful not to overcook it. Thin slices cook quickly.
Q: What if you don’t have fajita seasoning?
A: You can make your own with 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp onion powder.
Q: Can you make this recipe spicier?
A: Absolutely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your seasoning or include sliced jalapeños with the vegetables.
Q: What kind of baking sheet works best?
A: A large, heavy-duty baking sheet prevents warping and promotes even cooking for your homemade dinner.
Q: Can you freeze cooked fajitas?
A: While possible, the texture of the vegetables may become a bit soft after freezing and thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.
