Sheet Pan Beef Fajitas

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Flank Steak Fajitas

Original recipe (1X) yields 6 servings

Ingredients

• 2 medium bell peppers, sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
• 1 teaspoons salt, divided
• 1 teaspoon chili powder, divided
• teaspoon garlic powder
• teaspoon ground black pepper, divided
• teaspoon ground cumin, divided
• 1 (1 1/2-pound) flank steak
• 2 medium limes, quartered
• 6 (6-inch) flour tortillas, warmed

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 450F (230C) and line a sheet pan with foil.

Step 2: On the prepared sheet pan, combine bell peppers, onion, 2 teaspoons of olive oil, teaspoon salt, teaspoon chili powder, garlic powder, teaspoon black pepper, and teaspoon cumin. Toss the vegetables to evenly coat.

Step 3: Arrange the veggie mixture around the edges of the pan, creating an empty space in the center.

Step 4: Place the flank steak in the center of the pan. Brush the steak with the remaining 1 teaspoon of olive oil and season with the remaining salt, chili powder, black pepper, and cumin. Rub the seasoning evenly on both sides of the steak.

Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and browned around the edges, and the steak is firm with a slightly pink center. The internal temperature of the steak should read 140F (60C) for medium.

Step 6: Remove the steak from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes.

Step 7: Thinly slice the steak against the grain and return it to the sheet pan. Add lime wedges and serve the fajita mixture with warm tortillas.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 240
• Fat: 9g (12% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 3g (14% DV)
• Cholesterol: 27mg (9% DV)
• Sodium: 820mg (36% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 23g (8% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (10% DV)
• Total Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 17g (34% DV)
• Vitamin C: 40mg (45% DV)
• Calcium: 69mg (5% DV)
• Iron: 3mg (14% DV)
• Potassium: 353mg (8% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Sheet Pan Beef Fajitas are a convenient, delicious, and relatively simple dish to prepare for a family dinner. With tender flank steak, bell peppers, onions, and flavorful seasonings, this dish captures the essence of Mexican cuisine while offering a streamlined, one-pan approach. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines rich flavors with minimal cleanup, making it a go-to recipe in many households.

History and Origins

The origins of fajitas date back to the 1930s in the Tex-Mex region of the United States, particularly along the Texas-Mexico border. The word "fajita" itself comes from the Spanish word "faja," meaning "belt" or "strip," referring to the thin strips of beef traditionally used in the dish. Fajitas began as a humble dish, made by Mexican ranch workers who were given the least desirable cuts of beef, typically skirt steak. These workers marinated the meat to tenderize it before grilling it over an open flame. Over time, fajitas became a beloved part of Tex-Mex cuisine, gaining popularity across the United States in the 1980s, especially in restaurants and casual dining establishments.

Regional Variations

While fajitas are often associated with Texas and the southern United States, different regions have put their own spin on this classic dish. In some parts of Mexico, the use of skirt steak or flank steak is common, while in other areas, chicken or shrimp might be used instead. The addition of vegetables like bell peppers and onions is a standard feature in Tex-Mex versions, but variations with mushrooms, zucchini, or even pineapple can be found depending on the cook's preferences or local availability of ingredients. The seasoning mix can also vary, with some opting for store-bought fajita seasoning, while others create homemade blends with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika.

How Sheet Pan Fajitas Differ

Traditional fajitas are often cooked on a grill or skillet, requiring multiple cooking stages: grilling the meat, sauting the vegetables, and assembling everything into tortillas. The Sheet Pan Beef Fajitas recipe simplifies this by cooking everything on a single baking sheet. This method not only reduces prep and cleanup time but also allows the flavors to meld together as the vegetables roast alongside the steak. The addition of lime wedges before serving provides a zesty touch that brightens the entire dish, making it perfect for a quick dinner. While the ingredients remain traditional, the cooking method sets sheet pan fajitas apart from the classic versions.

Where to Serve Sheet Pan Beef Fajitas

Sheet Pan Beef Fajitas are perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual weeknight meals to larger gatherings. They can be served as part of a Mexican-themed dinner party or a family taco night. Because they are made in one pan, theyre easy to serve and share, making them ideal for both small and large groups. In restaurants, fajitas are often served sizzling hot on a cast-iron platter, but at home, the sheet pan method keeps things stress-free while still delivering on flavor. Whether served at a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this dish is sure to please everyone.

Fun Facts About Fajitas

• In Texas, fajitas are so beloved that there is even a "National Fajita Day" celebrated on August 18th!
• Fajitas were originally made with skirt steak, but as the dish became more popular, people began using other cuts of beef like flank steak or sirloin.
• While fajitas are often served in soft tortillas, some people prefer them in crispy taco shells or lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
• In recent years, vegetarian fajitas have become a trend, often featuring a variety of grilled vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant.

With its combination of tender steak, savory vegetables, and vibrant seasonings, Sheet Pan Beef Fajitas bring a taste of Texas and Mexico into your home in an easy-to-make, one-pan meal. Whether you're making it for a quick family dinner or a festive occasion, it's sure to be a hit!

FAQ about Sheet Pan Beef Fajitas

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