Description

Ever craved a sizzling, flavor-packed meal that’s so good it feels like a fiesta in your mouth? Fabulous Fajitas are the answer! These tender beef fajitas, bursting with zesty spices, juicy steak, and colorful veggies, are a fun and easy way to bring Mexican flair to your table. Cooked in a slow cooker, they’re perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings with friends.

Ingredients

The magic of Fabulous Fajitas comes from fresh, simple ingredients that create a bold, balanced dish. Here’s what you need and why each one matters:

Beef Top Sirloin Steak (1-1/2 pounds, cut into thin strips): A lean, tender cut that becomes juicy and flavorful after slow cooking.
Canola Oil (2 tablespoons): Used to brown the beef, locking in juices and adding richness.
Lemon Juice (2 tablespoons): Adds a bright, tangy flavor that tenderizes the beef.
Garlic Clove (1, minced): Brings bold, savory depth to the marinade.
Ground Cumin (1-1/2 teaspoons): Adds warm, earthy flavor that’s key to Mexican cuisine.
Seasoned Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors with a savory, slightly spiced kick.
Chili Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Gives a mild, smoky heat to the fajitas.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon): Adds a customizable spicy kick for extra zing.
Sweet Red Pepper (1 large, julienned): Brings sweet crunch and vibrant color.
Onion (1 large, julienned): Adds savory sweetness and texture as it softens.
Mini Flour Tortillas (8, 5 inches): Soft, small tortillas perfect for wrapping the fillings.
Optional Toppings: Shredded Cheddar Cheese, Fresh Cilantro Leaves, Sliced Jalapeño Pepper, Avocado: Add creamy, spicy, and fresh elements to customize each fajita.

Substitutions and Variations

Beef: Swap sirloin for chicken breast, pork tenderloin, or plant-based strips for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking time (chicken may need 2-3 hours total).
Lemon Juice: Use lime juice for a more traditional Mexican flavor or orange juice for a sweeter twist.
Tortillas: Substitute corn tortillas for gluten-free fajitas or use larger tortillas for burrito-style wraps.
Peppers: Add green or yellow bell peppers for more color or use poblano peppers for a smokier flavor.
Spice Level: Skip red pepper flakes for a milder version or add a diced jalapeño for extra heat.
Toppings: Try sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or diced tomatoes for different flavors.

Pro Tip: Slice the beef thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness, and choose ripe, firm peppers for the best crunch.

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Instructions

Brown the Beef:
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons canola oil over medium heat. Add 1-1/2 pounds beef top sirloin steak (cut into thin strips) and brown for 2-3 minutes per side until golden.
- Transfer the beef and drippings to a 3-quart slow cooker.
- Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet—brown in batches if needed for a nice sear.
Add Seasonings:
- Stir in 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, 1-1/2 teaspoons ground cumin, 1 teaspoon seasoned salt, 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, and 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes.
- Tip: Start with 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes and adjust later if you want more heat.
Cook the Beef:
- Cover and cook on high for 2 hours, until the beef is almost tender.
- Tip: Check at 1.5 hours, as slow cookers can vary.
Add Veggies:
- Add 1 large julienned sweet red pepper and 1 large julienned onion to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for 1 more hour, until the beef and veggies are tender.
- Tip: Stir gently to mix the veggies with the beef and juices.
Warm the Tortillas:
- Warm 8 mini flour tortillas according to package directions (usually in a microwave or oven for 20-30 seconds).
- Tip: Wrap tortillas in a damp paper towel when microwaving to keep them soft.
Assemble and Serve:
- Spoon beef and veggie mixture down the center of each tortilla (about 1/3 cup per fajita). Add optional toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeño, or avocado.
- Tip: Serve immediately to keep tortillas warm and fillings hot.

Cooking Technique Tips:

Brown for Flavor: Searing the beef adds depth, so don’t skip this step.
Julienne Evenly: Cut peppers and onions into thin, uniform strips for consistent cooking and easy wrapping.
Don’t Overcook: Check the beef at 2 hours to avoid drying it out, and add veggies later to keep them crisp-tender.