If you are craving a wholesome, flavor-packed meal that fuels your body and satisfies your taste buds, this High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. It perfectly balances tender, spiced flank steak with colorful sautéed peppers and onions, served over hearty brown rice or cauliflower rice for a nourishing punch. Each bite bursts with smoky, zesty, and fresh flavors that keep you energized and full. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or wanting a quick dinner that doesn’t compromise on nutrition, this bowl delivers on all fronts in a simple, delicious way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of straightforward ingredients, this High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl Recipe shines because each one is chosen carefully to contribute vibrant color, texture, and bold Mexican-inspired flavors. Every component plays a vital role in bringing that perfect balance of protein, freshness, and heartiness.
- 1 lb flank steak: Choose a fresh cut for tender, juicy slices packed with flavor and protein.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sear the steak and sauté the veggies with a light, fruity finish.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds a smoky, mild heat that complements the steak beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Provides that earthy warmth that’s iconic in fajita seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Delivers a subtle smoky depth to the spice rub.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a mellow, savory undertone without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning that enhances every ingredient naturally.
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced): Offers a sweet crunch and vibrant color to the bowl.
- 1 yellow bell pepper (sliced): Adds a bright, sunny hue and subtle sweetness.
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced): Introduces a slight bitterness that balances the sweetness of other peppers.
- 1 small red onion (sliced): Brings mild sharpness that mellows when sautéed to perfection.
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice: Choose hearty brown rice for fullness or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- 1/2 cup black beans (rinsed and drained): Adds creamy texture, fiber, and extra protein.
- 1/2 avocado (sliced): Provides a buttery, luscious finish with healthy fats.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro: Brightens the bowl with fresh herbal notes.
- Juice of 1 lime: The final zing that lifts all the flavors into a harmonious, tangy delight.
How to Make High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Steak Seasoning and Cook
Start by mixing chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub this vibrant seasoning mix evenly on both sides of your flank steak for a flavorful crust. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat, then cook the steak for 4 to 5 minutes per side, depending on your preferred doneness. Removing it from the heat, let it rest for about 5 minutes—this will keep the juices locked in and make slicing easier.
Step 2: Sauté the Peppers and Onion
Using the same skillet, toss in your sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers with the red onion. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables soften and develop those tempting lightly charred edges. This step infuses smoky sweetness and creates a juicy contrast to the meat.
Step 3: Slice the Steak Thinly
Grab your rested flank steak and slice it thinly against the grain. Doing so ensures tenderness in every bite and makes it easy to enjoy the full flavor profile alongside your sautéed veggies.
Step 4: Assemble Your High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl Recipe
Divide the cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice evenly into two bowls. Layer on the sliced steak, followed by the colorful peppers and onions. Add the black beans, then top it off with creamy avocado slices and chopped fresh cilantro. Finally, give everything a generous squeeze of lime juice for an irresistible, tangy finish that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
How to Serve High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl Recipe
Garnishes
Think beyond just avocado and cilantro. You can add dollops of Greek yogurt or a spoonful of salsa for extra creaminess and a pop of heat. A sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco or even some pickled jalapeños can elevate the experience, adding lively bursts of flavor and freshness that make your bowl feel like a celebration.
Side Dishes
This bowl is hearty enough on its own but pairs wonderfully with light, crunchy sides. Consider serving with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lime and olive oil or some fresh cucumber slices. If you want a touch of indulgence, warm corn tortillas or baked tortilla chips can round out the meal perfectly for scooping up those extra fajita veggies and beans.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation adds a fun twist to enjoying this recipe. Serve your High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl Recipe in colorful ceramic bowls for a festive pop. You can also layer components in mason jars for a grab-and-go lunch option that looks as good as it tastes. Garnishing with a lime wedge and cilantro sprig on top creates a restaurant-quality vibe right at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Spare portions of this High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl Recipe store beautifully in airtight containers. Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days to ensure freshness. Store the steak slices separately from the rice and veggies if possible to maintain optimum texture.
Freezing
You can freeze individual components like cooked steak and rice, but the peppers and onions are better fresh or refrigerated. Freeze cooked steak and rice in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. When thawed, reheat gently to preserve juiciness.
Reheating
Reheat your bowls in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave at medium power. Adding a splash of water or lime juice while warming helps keep everything moist and vibrant, just like freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal for its quick cooking and tenderness, you can also use skirt steak or sirloin. Just adjust cooking time depending on thickness to avoid overcooking.
Is this dish suitable for low-carb diets?
Yes! Swapping the brown rice with cauliflower rice makes this High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl Recipe a fantastic low-carb option without sacrificing flavor or volume.
How do I make the steak more tender?
For extra tenderness, marinate your steak in lime juice and crushed garlic for 30 minutes before cooking. The acidity helps break down muscle fibers and adds a zingy freshness.
Can I prepare this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
While the steak is a key protein source here, you can easily substitute it with grilled portobello mushrooms or seasoned tofu strips for a plant-based version. Keep the peppers, beans, and rice for filling textures and flavors.
What are some good toppings to add?
Try topping with sliced jalapeños for heat, shredded cheese for richness, or a spoonful of pico de gallo for fresh brightness. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to mellow the spices.
Final Thoughts
This High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl Recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of bold flavors, nourishing ingredients, and effortless cooking. Whether you’re powering through busy weekdays or impressing friends at a casual dinner, this recipe never disappoints. Dive in, savor the colorful layers, and watch it quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Print
High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl combines tender, seasoned flank steak with sautéed bell peppers and onions, served over brown rice or cauliflower rice for a nutritious and flavorful meal. Packed with protein and fresh flavors, it’s perfect for a wholesome, gluten-free dinner inspired by Mexican-American cuisine.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 lb flank steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables and Extras
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
- Prepare the seasoning mix: In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create the seasoning blend for the steak.
- Season the steak: Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the flank steak, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
- Cook the steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the steak for 4 to 5 minutes per side or until it reaches your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain for tenderness.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers along with the sliced red onion. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and slightly charred, enhancing their natural sweetness.
- Assemble the bowls: Divide the cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice between two bowls. Top each with sliced steak, sautéed bell peppers and onions, black beans, sliced avocado, and chopped fresh cilantro.
- Finish and serve: Squeeze fresh lime juice over each bowl for a burst of citrus flavor and serve warm for a delicious, balanced meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the steak in lime juice and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Swap brown rice with cauliflower rice to lower carbohydrates and increase vegetable intake.
- Add Greek yogurt or salsa on top for extra creaminess or a spicy kick.
