These Easy Crock-Pot Steak Fajitas are packed with flavor and so simple to make! Just toss steak, peppers, and spices in the slow cooker and let it do all the work.
You’ll love how juicy the steak gets! Serve it with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings. Trust me, this will be a family favorite! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank or Skirt Steak: Both cuts are great choices for fajitas because they are flavorful and tender when cooked low and slow. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with chicken breast or even tofu for a plant-based version.
Bell Peppers: The classic combo of red and green peppers adds color and sweetness. Feel free to mix and match with yellow or orange peppers for a fresher taste. If you’re in a pinch, frozen bell peppers work well, too!
Spices: Cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika are key to building flavor. If you don’t have these on hand, you can use taco seasoning as a convenient substitute. Just adjust the salt since seasoning blends can vary.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the dish. If you don’t have fresh limes, a splash of vinegar (like apple cider or white vinegar) can add a tangy kick in a pinch, though it will taste different.
How Can I Ensure My Steak Is Tender and Shreddable?
The key to tender steak in this recipe is cooking it slowly. The low and slow method allows the tough fibers in the meat to break down, resulting in a wonderfully tender dish. Here are some tips:
- Make sure your slow cooker is set to low for the best results, especially if you have 6-8 hours to let it cook.
- If you’re short on time, cooking on high for 3-4 hours works, but keep an eye on the steak to prevent overcooking.
- Once cooked, let the steak rest for a few minutes before shredding. This helps it stay juicy!
These simple techniques will help you achieve perfectly tender steak fajitas every time! Enjoy your meal! 🌮
Easy Crock-Pot Steak Fajitas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds flank steak or skirt steak
- 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Tortillas, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time, along with cooking time of 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crock-pot. Just set it up and let it cook until the steak is tender and flavorful—perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
2. Season the Steak:
Take your flank or skirt steak and rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides. This will infuse the meat with delicious flavor!
3. Layer the Vegetables:
Place the sliced onions, red and green bell peppers, and minced garlic at the bottom of the crock-pot. This makes a flavor-packed base for the steak!
4. Add the Steak:
Now, lay the seasoned steak right on top of the vegetables in the crock-pot. It’s starting to smell good already!
5. Add Liquids and Toppings:
Pour the beef broth (or water) and diced tomatoes (if using) over the steak. Then, drizzle the olive oil on top for added richness.
6. Cooking Time:
Cover the crock-pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The goal is for the steak to become tender and easy to shred.
7. Shred the Steak:
Once fully cooked, remove the steak from the crock-pot and shred it using two forks. It should fall apart easily!
8. Combine Ingredients:
Return the shredded steak to the crock-pot and give everything a good stir to blend the flavors. Don’t forget to squeeze the lime juice over the mixture!
9. Garnish:
Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top for a touch of freshness and flavor.
10. Serve:
Warm up your tortillas and get ready to dig in! Serve the juicy steak and veggies with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, shredded cheese, or salsa.
Enjoy your flavorful and juicy crock-pot steak fajitas!
FAQ for Easy Crock-Pot Steak Fajitas
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat?
Yes! While flank or skirt steak is ideal for fajitas due to their flavor and tenderness, you can also use sirloin or even chicken if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed!
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No problem! You can substitute beef broth with water, chicken broth, or even vegetable broth. Just keep in mind that stock will enhance the flavor of the dish a bit more.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the vegetables and season the steak the night before. Store the veggies in the fridge and rub the steak with the spices, then refrigerate. Just layer them in the crock-pot in the morning and set it to cook!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover fajitas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Enjoy it in tacos, salads, or even on a warm burrito bowl!
