This Easy Crock-Pot Steak Fajitas Recipe is perfect for busy days. Just toss beef, bell peppers, and spices into your Crock-Pot, and let it cook low and slow!
It’s like magic watching the flavors come together without any fuss. I love serving them in warm tortillas with fresh toppings for a weeknight treat! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank or Skirt Steak: These cuts are great for fajitas as they are flavorful and tender when cooked low and slow. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use sirloin or chicken breast instead.
Bell Peppers: I love using a mix of red, green, and yellow for a colorful dish! If you’re out of fresh peppers, try frozen ones or even use canned for a quicker alternative.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens the dish. If you don’t have limes, you can use lemon juice as a substitute for a similar tangy flavor.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika add essential flavor. For a spicier kick, consider adding more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. If you want to simplify, store-bought fajita seasoning works perfectly too!
How Do I Ensure My Steak is Tender and Flavorful?
The key to tender and flavorful steak is slicing it correctly and cooking it at the right temperature. Start by slicing against the grain; this shortens the muscle fibers, making it more tender. Then, use low heat for a long cook time. Here’s how:
- Slice your steak thinly before placing it in the Crock-Pot to help it absorb flavors.
- Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, making it easy to shred at the end.
- Once cooked, use two forks to shred the steak, mixing it with the juices and veggies for maximum flavor.
Following these tips will help you make amazing fajitas that are juicy and full of taste every time!
Easy Crock-Pot Steak Fajitas Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fajitas:
- 2 pounds flank steak or skirt steak, thinly sliced
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow), sliced into strips
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Serving:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Tortillas, warmed (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then you’ll let it cook in the Crock-Pot for either 6-8 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH. Perfect for throwing together in the morning and enjoying a tasty dinner later!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak:
Start by slicing your flank or skirt steak thinly against the grain. This will help ensure it’s nice and tender when cooked.
2. Assemble in the Crock-Pot:
Place the sliced steak into the bottom of your Crock-Pot. Then, layer the sliced bell peppers and onion on top of the steak. It’s looking colorful already!
3. Mix the Flavorful Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together minced garlic, beef broth, lime juice, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you like it spicy!). This sauce is what makes the fajitas flavorful.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the spice and broth mixture evenly over the steak and vegetables in the Crock-Pot. Drizzle the olive oil on top and give everything a gentle toss to mix it well.
5. Cooking Time:
Cover the Crock-Pot with the lid and cook it on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. By the end, the steak should be tender enough to shred with a fork.
6. Shred and Serve:
When it’s done, use two forks to shred the steak and mix it with the peppers and onions. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning if needed!
7. Enjoy Your Fajitas:
Serve the fajita mixture on warm tortillas and top with fresh cilantro. Add your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or shredded cheese for a delicious meal!
Now, dig in and enjoy your flavorful and effortless Crock-Pot steak fajitas! They’re sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
FAQ for Easy Crock-Pot Steak Fajitas
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! Though flank or skirt steak works best, you can also use sirloin, brisket, or even chicken if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary — chicken generally cooks faster!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like extra heat, consider adding more crushed red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the dish. You can also serve with your favorite hot sauce for an added kick!
Can I Prepare This Recipe the Night Before?
Yes, you can! Prepare all the ingredients and combine them in the Crock-Pot insert. Cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, you can pop it directly into the Crock-Pot and start cooking!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Fajitas?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the stove or in the microwave. They also make great toppings for salads or burrito bowls!
