There’s nothing quite like the vibrant flavors of sizzling steak, colorful peppers, and zesty onions all nestled in a hearty bowl. This High-Protein Steak Fajita Bowl is packed with lean protein, fiber-rich veggies, and a touch of spice that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. Whether you’re meal prepping or craving a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is both nutritious and delicious. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating a meal that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Protein-Packed: Lean steak provides high-quality protein to keep you full and support muscle recovery. Perfect for fitness enthusiasts or anyone looking to boost their protein intake.
Nutrient-Rich: Loaded with colorful bell peppers and onions, this bowl delivers essential vitamins and antioxidants. Plus, the addition of fresh lime juice adds brightness and tanginess.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s ideal for busy evenings when you still want something healthy and satisfying.
Customizable: Swap out ingredients, adjust spice levels, or add toppings like avocado, sour cream, or cilantro to make it your own. The possibilities are endless!
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. The combination of tender steak, smoky spices, and creamy rice makes it universally appealing.
Ingredients
Steak: Use flank, skirt, or sirloin steak for its tenderness and flavor. Slice it thinly against the grain for maximum texture.
Bell Peppers: Choose a mix of colors red, yellow, and green for added visual appeal and nutrition. They add sweetness and crunch to the dish.
Onions: Red or white onions work well here. Caramelize them slightly for a deeper, sweeter flavor.
Fajita Seasoning: Store-bought or homemade seasoning blend works wonders. Look for one with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Lime Juice: Adds freshness and acidity to balance out the richness of the steak. Squeeze it over the veggies and steak before serving.
Brown Rice: Provides a wholesome base for the bowl. Quinoa or cauliflower rice can also be used for a lower-carb option.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Prepare the Rice: Cook brown rice according to package instructions. Set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the other components.
Marinate the Steak: In a shallow dish, combine sliced steak with fajita seasoning, olive oil, and a splash of lime juice. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes to infuse flavor.
Sauté the Veggies: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Add sliced bell peppers and onions, sautéing until they’re softened and lightly caramelized. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Cook the Steak: In the same skillet, increase the heat to high and add the marinated steak. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from heat and let it rest briefly before slicing.
Assemble the Bowls: Divide cooked rice among bowls, top with sautéed veggies and sliced steak. Drizzle with any remaining marinade or extra lime juice for added flavor.
Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, or avocado if desired. Serve hot and savor every bite!
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 450
How to Serve High-Protein Steak Fajita Bowl
This dish pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Fresh Guacamole: Top each bowl with a dollop of creamy guacamole for an extra burst of flavor and creaminess.
Sour Cream: Add a spoonful of tangy sour cream or Greek yogurt for a cooling contrast to the spiced steak and veggies.
Cilantro Lime Dressing: Drizzle a light vinaigrette over the top for added moisture and zest.
As a Standalone: Sometimes, this bowl is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Garnish with fresh lime wedges and chopped cilantro for a finishing touch.
FAQ Section
1. Can I use chicken instead of steak?
Yes! Chicken breast or thighs would work beautifully as substitutes. Adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
2. What type of peppers should I use?
A mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers works best for color and flavor variety. However, feel free to use your favorite colors based on availability.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rice and sauté the veggies in advance. Reheat everything together just before serving for optimal results.
4. How do I store leftover fajita bowls?
Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying out.
5. Can I freeze this dish?
While freezing is possible, the texture of the veggies and rice might suffer upon thawing. It’s better suited for short-term storage in the fridge.
6. Can I double the recipe?
Definitely. Doubling the recipe is simple and ensures you have plenty for leftovers or feeding a crowd.
7. Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Not as written, but you can replace brown rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa for a lower-carb option.
8. Can I skip the fajita seasoning?
You can, though the seasoning adds depth and authenticity to the dish. For a simpler version, use chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt.
9. Do I need to marinate the steak?
Marinating enhances flavor but isn’t strictly necessary. If pressed for time, simply season the steak generously before cooking.
10. Can I add beans to the bowl?
Absolutely! Black beans or pinto beans would complement the dish beautifully. Drain and rinse canned beans before adding them to the bowl.
Conclusion
There you have it a nutritious and flavorful High-Protein Steak Fajita Bowl that’s sure to become a go-to meal in your kitchen. With its perfect balance of lean protein, vibrant veggies, and wholesome grains, it’s a dish that satisfies both your taste buds and nutritional needs. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and let’s cook something amazing together! Your body and your taste buds will thank you.
Print
High-Protein Steak Fajita Bowl
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour (for marinating)
- Yield: 30 minutes (excluding marinating) 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-seared & Roasted
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Description
This High-Protein Steak Fajita Bowl is a low-carb, nutrient-dense meal packed with juicy skirt steak, roasted peppers, onions, and riced cauliflower. It’s a perfect meal for fitness enthusiasts and anyone looking for a delicious, protein-packed option without the extra carbs!
Ingredients
For the Steak & Marinade
- 1 lb skirt steak
- 2 tbsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp avocado or olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cauliflower Rice
- 1/2 tbsp avocado or olive oil
- 1 (10-ounce) bag riced cauliflower
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Roasting the Veggies
- 1/2 tbsp avocado or olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 yellow onion, sliced
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Marinate the Steak
- In a bowl, mix chipotle peppers, oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Add the steak, coat well, and marinate for at least 1 hour (overnight for deeper flavor).
- Remove the steak from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking.
- Step 2: Roast the Vegetables
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Toss bell pepper and onion with oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes until caramelized. - Step 3: Cook the Cauliflower Rice
7. Heat ½ tbsp oil in a pan over medium heat.
8. Add riced cauliflower, sauté for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside. - Step 4: Cook the Steak
10. Heat 1 tbsp avocado oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
11. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side (medium-rare: 130°F internal temp).
12. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice against the grain into strips. - Step 5: Assemble & Serve
13. Divide cauliflower rice, roasted veggies, and steak into 3 bowls.
14. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Meal Prep Friendly: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.
- Serving Ideas: Top with avocado, salsa, or Greek yogurt for extra flavor.
- Alternative Proteins: Swap steak for chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- For a Carb Boost: Serve with brown rice or quinoa instead of cauliflower rice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: ~528 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 120mg