Ready for a meal that’s both simple and healthy? Let me introduce you to Fajita Steak Sheet Pan Bowls! This dish features tender flank steak and vibrant bell peppers, all roasted together for an easy dinner. With fresh flavors and just the right amount of spice, you’ll love how this recipe fits into your busy life. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 green bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
The main ingredients of this dish pack a flavor punch. Flank steak is juicy and tender when cooked right. The bell peppers add sweetness and color. The onion provides a nice savory touch, while garlic brings in that aromatic flavor.
Seasoning and Oils
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– ½ teaspoon sea salt
– ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Seasoning is key to great fajitas. Olive oil helps the spices stick. Chili powder gives heat, while cumin and paprika add depth. Salt and pepper enhance the flavors, making every bite delicious.
Additional Components
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup corn (can be fresh, frozen, or canned)
– 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
– Fresh cilantro, finely chopped (for garnish)
– Lime wedges (for serving)
The additional components make this meal hearty. Black beans are a great source of protein and fiber. Corn adds a sweet crunch, while brown rice or quinoa serves as a filling base. Fresh cilantro and lime elevate the dish, adding brightness and freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
First, set your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat helps roast the steak and vegetables quickly. Preheating is key for a good meal. It ensures everything cooks evenly and gets that nice, roasted flavor.
Prepare the Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the thinly sliced flank steak with the sliced bell peppers and onion. Add the minced garlic for extra flavor. Next, drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the mix. Season it well with 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Don’t forget the sea salt and black pepper! Toss everything together until the steak and veggies are coated nicely. This step makes sure each bite is packed with flavor.
Roasting Process
Now, transfer the mixture to a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread it out evenly for the best roasting. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast for about 20 minutes. At the halfway mark, stir the ingredients gently. This helps them cook evenly. Check the steak’s doneness and make sure the veggies are tender. If they need more time, pop them back in the oven for a few more minutes. Enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Steak
To get the best steak, choose flank steak. It’s thin and cooks fast. Aim for medium-rare doneness, which is about 135°F. Use a meat thermometer to check. Slice the steak against the grain for tenderness. This helps each bite melt in your mouth.
Vegetable Cooking Tips
For even cooking, cut the peppers and onions into uniform pieces. This ensures all veggies cook at the same rate. Toss them well with the steak so they soak up all the spices. Stir the mixture halfway through roasting. This promotes even browning and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
For a beautiful bowl, layer cooked brown rice or quinoa first. Then, add the roasted steak and veggies on top. Spoon warm black beans and corn over everything for color. Finish with fresh cilantro for a pop of green. Serve lime wedges on the side. A squeeze of lime juice adds a fresh zing to each bite.
Variations
Protein Options
You can switch up the protein in your fajita bowl. If you prefer chicken, use boneless breasts or thighs. Simply slice them thin and follow the same steps. For a meat-free option, try tofu. Press and cube the tofu, then marinate it in the same spices. This adds flavor and keeps it healthy.
Customizing Vegetables
Feel free to add more veggies to the mix. In addition to bell peppers and onion, try zucchini, mushrooms, or even cherry tomatoes. Seasonal veggies work well too. This lets you enjoy fresh flavors while keeping the dish light and healthy.
Rice and Grain Choices
Brown rice is great, but you can also use quinoa or cauliflower rice. Quinoa gives you extra protein, while cauliflower rice lowers carbs. Both options provide a nice base for your fajita bowl. Mix and match to find what suits your taste best.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
To store leftovers, let the fajita steak sheet pan bowls cool. Place them in airtight containers. This keeps the meal fresh and tasty. Store in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, just take out what you need.
Freezing Guidelines
For freezing, it’s best to separate the components. Freeze the steak and veggies in one bag. Place beans and corn in another. Rice or quinoa can go in a third bag. This way, you can easily pick what you want. Properly sealed, they last for up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating Instructions
For reheating, the oven works best. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Spread the steak, veggies, beans, and corn on a baking sheet. Warm for about 15 minutes or until hot. You can also use the microwave. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Enjoy your flavorful meal again!
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, you can use other cuts of steak. Sirloin or ribeye work well. Just slice them thinly. These cuts will still give you great flavor and tenderness.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
To add heat, use more chili powder or add jalapeños. You can also include hot sauce or crushed red pepper. Adjust the spice to your taste for a fiery kick.
What can I substitute for black beans?
If you don’t have black beans, you can use pinto beans or kidney beans. Chickpeas are also a good choice. They bring a nice texture and work well in this dish.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes, you can make this dish vegetarian. Replace the steak with tofu or tempeh. Season it just like the steak. This keeps the flavors rich and satisfying.
How long does it take to cook the steak?
Cooking the steak takes about 20 minutes. Make sure to stir halfway for even cooking. You want it tender but not overcooked. Check for your desired doneness before removing it from the oven.
This blog post covered how to make a tasty dish using flank steak, veggies, and grains. You learned the main ingredients like bell peppers and garlic, plus key tips for perfect cooking. We explored different protein and vegetable options, along with storage advice. Remember, you can always customize to fit your taste. Embrace your creativity in the kitchen. Cooking should be fun and rewarding. Enjoy making this dish your own!
