Grilled Steak Fajita Bowls

Name: Grilled Steak Fajita Bowls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak; 1/4 cup lime juice; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 bell peppers (red and green), sliced; 1 medium onion, sliced; 4 cups cooked rice or quinoa; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Lime wedges, for serving; Sour cream, for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Global World Food Collection

I absolutely love making Grilled Steak Fajita Bowls for family dinners. The combination of marinated steak, vibrant bell peppers, and zesty toppings creates a delicious meal that everyone can assemble to their liking. It’s not only a feast for the taste buds but also a colorful presentation that adds excitement to any table. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknights when I want to whip up something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Isabella Clark

Last updated on 2026-02-08T08:53:36.420Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of making steak fajita bowls, I was immediately intrigued by the concept of assembling everything in a bowl. I decided to marinate the steak with a mixture of lime juice and spices, which not only enhances the flavor but also tenderizes the meat. The vibrant colors of grilled bell peppers and fresh toppings turn it into an enticing dish that is hard to resist.

One of the tips I found to elevate these bowls is to grill the vegetables alongside the steak. This method allows the peppers to soften and caramelize, enhancing their natural sweetness. Topping the bowls with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of lime juice adds a zesty brightness that complements the rich flavors beautifully. This method has quickly become a staple in my weeknight dinner rotation!

You'll Love These Grilled Steak Fajita Bowls Because:
Flavorful marinated steak with a smoky char
Customizable toppings for every palate
Fresh, vibrant vegetables add color and crunch

Marinade Magic

The marinade is what elevates the flank steak to new heights in these Grilled Steak Fajita Bowls. The lime juice acts as a tenderizer, breaking down the meat's fibers, while the olive oil helps to lock in moisture, resulting in a juicy and flavorful steak. Be sure to marinate the steak for at least 15 minutes, but if time permits, let it sit for up to two hours for even deeper flavor infusion.

When mixing your marinade, consider balancing the chili powder and cumin to suit your taste preferences. These spices bring a warm, smoky depth to the dish. You can also experiment by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for an extra kick. Just remember, the longer the steak marinates, the more pronounced these flavors will be in the finished bowl.

Grilling Tips

Grilling over medium-high heat is essential for achieving that perfect sear on your flank steak. This high temperature allows for golden-brown crust formation while keeping the inside juicy. Check the steak's doneness using a meat thermometer; 130°F will give you a perfect medium-rare finish. Don’t forget to rest the steak after grilling—this step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is succulent.

While grilling the vegetables, be mindful of their texture. Aim for tender peppers and onions that still retain some crunch. This not only adds to the visual appeal but also provides a delightful contrast to the tender steak. If your grill has flare-ups, move the vegetables to a cooler spot on the grill to prevent charring.

Customization and Serving Suggestions

These bowls are incredibly versatile, allowing everyone to tailor their meal to their liking. Besides the suggested toppings like avocado and cherry tomatoes, consider adding black beans or corn for added protein and sweetness. For a creamy twist, try drizzling a cilantro-lime dressing or a chipotle crema over the assembled bowls, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

For meal prep enthusiasts, you can prepare the steak and vegetables ahead of time. Grill everything on a Sunday and refrigerate for easy assembly during the week. The bowls can be stored in an airtight container for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, just remember to warm gently to avoid overcooking the steak.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Grilled Steak Fajita Bowls.

For the Steak Marinade

1 lb flank steak
1/4 cup lime juice
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Fajita Bowls

2 bell peppers (red and green), sliced
1 medium onion, sliced
4 cups cooked rice or quinoa
1 avocado, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving
Sour cream, for serving (optional)

Ensure everything is prepped before you start cooking for a smooth experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Grilled Steak Fajita Bowls.

Marinate the Steak

In a bowl, mix lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Place the flank steak in the mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Cover and marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Grill the Steak and Vegetables

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated steak for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until desired doneness. In the last few minutes of grilling, add the sliced bell peppers and onion to the grill, cooking until tender.

Assemble the Bowls

Once the steak is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips. In a bowl, layer the rice or quinoa, top with grilled vegetables, sliced steak, avocado, and cherry tomatoes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges and sour cream if desired.

Enjoy your delicious creation with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some sliced jalapeños or a spicy salsa on top. You can also substitute chicken or shrimp for the steak if you prefer.

Ingredient Storage

Storing leftover cooked vegetables is simple. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. They can be enjoyed cold in salads, or reheated on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. If you have leftover steak, slice it and store it separately to maintain its texture, which can otherwise become chewy when reheated.

Fresh herbs like cilantro can last longer in the fridge if stored correctly. Place washed stems upright in a glass of water, cover loosely with a plastic bag, and they can last up to two weeks. Alternatively, cilantro can be frozen in ice cube trays with a bit of water, making it easy to add to future dishes.

Variations and Dietary Swaps

For a healthier twist, substitute the rice or quinoa with cauliflower rice. Not only does it lower the carbohydrate content, but it also adds a different texture that's light and fluffy. Additionally, you can swap flank steak with chicken breast or even tofu for a vegetarian version, ensuring the marinade complements the new protein choice.

If you're looking to spice things up, consider adding a variety of grilled mushrooms or zucchini alongside the bell peppers and onions. These not only enhance the flavor profile but also add more nutrients, creating a heartier bowl. Another great addition could be sliced jalapeños for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable, making it perfect for both small and larger gatherings. If you're cooking for a crowd, simply double or triple the quantities, keeping in mind that the marinade will require a larger bowl for even coating. When grilling larger quantities, consider using two grills or grilling in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking.

To maintain the flavors during scaling, ensure that your spices and marinade remain proportional. Preparing larger batches of the fajita bowls can also simplify assembly line-style serving, allowing guests to customize their bowls efficiently while maintaining the vibrant presentation that makes this dish special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, you can use other cuts like sirloin or ribeye, but cooking times may vary.

→ How can I make these bowls vegetarian?

You can replace the steak with grilled mushrooms, tempeh, or a mix of your favorite vegetables.

→ What can I use instead of lime juice?

You can substitute lime juice with lemon juice for a similar tangy flavor.

→ Can these bowls be prepared in advance?

Absolutely! Marinate the steak and prep the veggies ahead of time. Just grill and assemble when ready to serve.