Easy and Delicious Steak Fajitas Air Fryer Recipe
If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and hassle-free dinner option, this Steak Fajitas Air Fryer Recipe is a must-try. With tender, juicy steak strips, colorful bell peppers, and onions, this dish captures all the vibrant flavors of a classic Tex-Mex meal. The best part? It’s cooked entirely in your air fryer, making cleanup a breeze and cutting down on cooking time. Whether you’re serving it up for a family dinner or prepping meals for the week, these air fryer steak fajitas are sure to become a household favorite.
Introduction
Steak fajitas are a Tex-Mex staple that traditionally involves grilling or pan-frying marinated beef, onions, and bell peppers. However, the air fryer has revolutionized the way we cook fajitas, offering a convenient, healthier, and equally delicious alternative. By using an air fryer, the steak gets a perfect sear while the veggies stay tender-crisp, all with minimal oil. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or anyone who loves a meal packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant flavors.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Recipe Overview
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
- Course: Main Course
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Active Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Resting Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
For the Fajitas:
- 1 lb (450g) flank steak or skirt steak, sliced thinly against the grain
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
For the Marinade:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp ground oregano
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
For Serving (Optional):
- Warm flour or corn tortillas
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Salsa
- Lime wedges
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. This flavorful marinade is the key to tender and juicy steak fajitas.
2. Marinate the Steak
Place the thinly sliced steak into a large mixing bowl or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the steak and toss to coat evenly. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you’re in a rush, even a quick 10-minute soak will enhance the flavor.
3. Prep the Vegetables
While the steak is marinating, wash and slice the bell peppers and onion into thin strips. Toss them in a small bowl with a teaspoon of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a dash of pepper.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat it for 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures the steak and veggies cook evenly.
5. Cook the Fajitas
- Arrange the marinated steak strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding; you may need to cook in batches.
- Add the sliced vegetables over the steak.
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Adjust cooking time based on your air fryer model and the thickness of the steak slices.
6. Rest the Steak
Once cooked, remove the steak and veggies from the air fryer. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender bites.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave. Assemble your steak fajitas by placing the air-fried steak and veggies onto the tortillas. Top with your favorite garnishes like fresh cilantro, sour cream, guacamole, and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Cut Against the Grain: Always slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Don’t Skip the Marinade: Marinating the steak infuses it with flavor and helps break down tough fibers.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime juice and quality spices make a huge difference in flavor.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cooking in a single layer ensures the steak and veggies cook evenly in the air fryer.
- Experiment with Protein: You can substitute chicken, shrimp, or tofu for steak if desired.
Why Use an Air Fryer for Fajitas?
Air fryers circulate hot air around the food, creating a crispy exterior without needing excessive oil. This makes them perfect for fajitas, as the steak gets a lovely sear while the vegetables retain their natural crunch. Additionally, air frying is faster and healthier than traditional stovetop or grill methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen steak?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw the steak completely before marinating to ensure it absorbs the flavors and cooks evenly.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can make this recipe on a stovetop skillet or grill. Simply cook the steak and veggies over medium-high heat until done.
How long does it keep in the fridge?
Leftover steak fajitas can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave before serving.
Can I make it spicier?
Absolutely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the marinade for an extra kick.
Conclusion
This Steak Fajitas Air Fryer Recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal. With tender steak, colorful vegetables, and bold Tex-Mex spices, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and time again. Plus, the ease of cooking in an air fryer means you can enjoy restaurant-quality fajitas at home with minimal effort. Try this recipe today and savor the delicious simplicity of air-fried steak fajitas!
I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.