Grilled Steak Fajita Bowls

Name: Grilled Steak Fajita Bowls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak; 2 tbsp olive oil; Juice of 2 limes; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 onion, sliced; Cooked rice or lettuce (for serving); Fresh cilantro (for garnish); Avocado slices (optional); Sour cream (optional)

Highlighted under: International Kitchen Classics

I absolutely love making Grilled Steak Fajita Bowls when I want a meal that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers and onions, combined with the perfectly marinated steak, create a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. This dish is not only easy to put together, but it also allows for endless customization, whether you prefer more spice or extra toppings. I can whip this up in 30 minutes, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends.

Created by

Chloe Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-08T08:05:36.954Z

When I first tried making steak fajita bowls at home, I was amazed at how simple yet satisfying they could be. I marinated the steak in a blend of lime juice, garlic, and spices, which really brought out the flavors. The grilling process seals in the juiciness and gives the meat that perfect char. It's amazing how a few basic ingredients can transform into something so delicious!

One tip I learned along the way is to let the grilled steak rest for a few minutes after cooking. This step makes a huge difference, allowing the juices to redistribute for a more tender bite. I also love experimenting with different toppings, from avocado to fresh cilantro, to suit my mood!

Why You'll Love These Bowls
Savory grilled steak paired with fresh vegetables
Customizable for different tastes and dietary needs
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights

Ingredient Insight

The core of these Grilled Steak Fajita Bowls is the flank steak, which is known for its rich flavor and chewy texture. Choosing a higher-quality cut will enhance the overall taste of the dish. Letting the steak marinate is crucial; it not only infuses flavor but also tenderizes the meat thanks to the acid in the lime juice. If flank steak isn't available, skirt steak or sirloin can be excellent substitutes, though the marinating time may differ slightly to ensure proper flavor infusion.

Fresh vegetables play a vital role in this recipe, both for flavor and nutrition. Bell peppers and onions add sweetness and a satisfying crunch. When selecting bell peppers, consider using a mix of colors to create a visually appealing dish. Grilling the vegetables until they have char marks enhances their natural sugars, leading to a more complex flavor. You can experiment with other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, but remember that grilling times may vary; keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Techniques for Perfection

Marinating the steak for at least 30 minutes is ideal, but if you're short on time, even 15 minutes can make an impact. To ensure even cooking, let the steak come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling. This uniform temperature helps achieve a better sear and more even doneness throughout the meat. Additionally, always allow the grilled steak to rest for at least 5 minutes; this helps the juices redistribute within the meat, resulting in a juicier bite when you slice it.

When grilling, using a two-zone setup on your grill can enhance your results. Start by searing the steak over high heat to develop a nice crust, then move it to a cooler section of the grill to finish cooking to your desired doneness. For the vegetables, using a grilling basket can prevent them from slipping through the grates and ensure an even char. If you prefer a spicy kick, consider adding jalapeños to the vegetable mix; grill them alongside the other vegetables for a smoky flavor.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

For the Bowl

1 lb flank steak
2 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 2 limes
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 onion, sliced
Cooked rice or lettuce (for serving)
Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Avocado slices (optional)
Sour cream (optional)

Make sure to adjust the recipe ingredients based on the number of servings you need.

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfectly grilled steak fajita bowls.

Marinate the Steak

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the flank steak and cover. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Grill the Steak

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from marinade and grill for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes.

Cook the Vegetables

While the steak is grilling, toss the sliced bell peppers and onion in a little olive oil and grill them for 4-5 minutes until slightly charred and tender.

Assemble the Bowls

Slice the grilled steak against the grain. In serving bowls, layer rice or lettuce, grilled vegetables, and sliced steak. Top with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and sour cream if desired.

Enjoy your delicious and colorful grilled steak fajita bowls!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap out the steak for chicken or shrimp, and experiment with your favorite toppings to make these bowls your own.

Make-Ahead Tips

These Grilled Steak Fajita Bowls can be prepped in advance, making them a great option for meal prep. Marinate the steak up to 24 hours ahead of time; this ensures maximum flavor development. You can also slice the onions and bell peppers a day prior, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Cooked rice or lettuce can be prepared earlier in the week, helping streamline final assembly. Just make sure to store everything separately until you’re ready to serve.

If you're grilling for a crowd, consider scaling the recipe by doubling or tripling the ingredients, especially the marinated steak and vegetables. Just remember to adjust your grill space accordingly. It may take a bit longer to grill larger quantities, so use a meat thermometer to check doneness rather than relying solely on time.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative twist on serving, consider using tortillas to wrap your assembled bowls or serving the fajita mixture over tortilla chips for a hearty nacho-style dish. Adding a drizzle of lime crema made from sour cream, lime juice, and garlic can elevate flavors beautifully. If you want a colorful presentation, serve the bowls in a rainbow of toppings, letting everyone customize with their favorites—like fresh salsa, pickled jalapeños, or even crumbled queso fresco.

These bowls are also excellent for leftovers. Store the components separately in the fridge and reassemble when ready to eat. If the steak dries out, slice and pan-sear it briefly to revive its moisture. Just remember that the grilled veggies can be gently reheated to preserve their texture. A quick toss in a skillet can help if you're craving that grilled flavor again!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the steak and grill the vegetables ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator.

→ What can I use instead of flank steak?

You can substitute flank steak with skirt steak or chicken for different variations.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe low-carb?

Absolutely! You can replace rice with cauliflower rice or serve it on a bed of lettuce.

→ Can I adjust the spice level?

Definitely! You can add more chili powder or even some diced jalapeños for extra heat.