This Easy Crock-Pot Steak Fajitas recipe is perfect for a laid-back dinner. Just toss beef, peppers, and spices into your slow cooker and let it do the work for you!
Who doesn’t love a meal that smells amazing while cooking? I often make extra so I can enjoy the tasty leftovers in wraps or tacos the next day. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank or Skirt Steak: Both cuts are perfect for fajitas due to their flavor and tenderness when cooked properly. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using chicken breast or turkey. For a vegetarian choice, use portobello mushrooms or jackfruit as a meat substitute.
Bell Peppers: I love using a mix of red, green, and yellow for color and sweetness. If you can’t find all three, any combination works. You can also use poblano peppers for a bit of spice or even zucchini for a lighter twist.
Spices: The combination of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika really brings out flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works; just add a touch of liquid smoke for that smoky flavor. You can also throw in a pinch of cayenne if you like heat!
How Do I Ensure the Steak Comes Out Tender?
One of the keys to tender steak fajitas is slow cooking. Here’s how to get the best results:
- Slice the steak against the grain. This means cutting perpendicular to the lines on the meat, which helps it remain tender.
- Don’t rush the cooking. Low and slow is the way to go! Cook on low for 6-8 hours if you can.
- After cooking, let the steak rest before shredding. This helps retain juices, making your dish even more flavorful.
By following these tips, your steak fajitas will turn out juicy and delicious every time!
Easy Crock-Pot Steak Fajitas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fajitas:
- 2 lbs flank steak or skirt steak, sliced into thin strips
- 3 bell peppers (1 red, 1 green, 1 yellow), sliced into strips
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp oregano
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Tortillas (flour or corn), for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This savory dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 6-8 hours of cooking in the crock-pot on low, or 3-4 hours on high. Just set it and forget it, and you’ll come home to a delicious aroma and a hassle-free meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful blend will enhance the steak and veggies perfectly!
2. Season the Steak:
Rub the spice mixture evenly over the sliced steak. Make sure all pieces get coated well for maximum flavor.
3. Layer the Vegetables:
Place the sliced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic into the bottom of the crock-pot. This will create a delicious base for your fajitas!
4. Add the Steak:
Lay the seasoned steak strips on top of the vegetable layer. It’s okay if some overlap; they’ll cook down beautifully.
5. Add the Liquid:
Pour the beef broth and olive oil over the contents in the crock-pot, ensuring everything is moistened to guarantee tender steak.
6. Cook It Up:
Cover the crock-pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the steak is super tender and easy to shred with forks.
7. Shred the Steak:
Once cooked, carefully remove the steak strips and shred them directly in the crock-pot using two forks. Enjoy the incredible aroma wafting up!
8. Mix It All Together:
Stir the shredded steak back into the crock-pot with the peppers and onions, mixing well. Add lime juice and taste to adjust any seasoning if needed.
9. Serve It Up:
Serve hot with warm tortillas and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro for a bright flavor addition.
10. Add Toppings:
Feel free to offer optional toppings like sour cream, guacamole, shredded cheese, or salsa to enhance your fajitas even more.
Enjoy your tender, flavorful Easy Crock-Pot Steak Fajitas!
FAQ for Easy Crock-Pot Steak Fajitas
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While flank or skirt steak works best for fajitas due to their tenderness, you can also use sirloin or even chicken breast. Just be aware that cooking times may vary for different meats; chicken typically cooks faster and may need less time in the crock-pot.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you like heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the mix. You could also serve your fajitas with a spicy salsa or hot sauce on the side for an extra kick!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover fajitas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. If the mixture seems dry, you can add a splash of beef broth or water during reheating to keep it moist.
Can I Freeze the Fajitas?
Yes! You can freeze the cooked and shredded fajita filling in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, and you’ll have a quick meal ready to go!
