Beef Fajita Bowls with Cilantro Rice
These Beef Fajita Bowls with Cilantro Rice are packed with bold Tex-Mex flavors and make the perfect easy dinner recipe! Tender seasoned beef, colorful sautéed peppers and onions, and fluffy cilantro lime rice come together in a hearty, healthy meal bowl.
Ingredients
- For the Beef:
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
- For the Vegetables:
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For the Cilantro Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white or jasmine rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
- Optional Toppings:
- Avocado slices
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Salsa or pico de gallo
- Shredded cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Add the sliced beef and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes (or up to 1 hour in the fridge for more flavor).
- Step 2: Cook the Cilantro Rice: Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine rice and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for 15–18 minutes until rice is tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork. Stir in lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt.
- Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced bell peppers and onions. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes until vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Step 4: Cook the Beef: In the same skillet, add marinated beef in a single layer. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if needed.
- Step 5: Assemble the Fajita Bowls: Divide cilantro rice evenly among four bowls. Top with sautéed peppers and onions. Add cooked beef slices on top. Optional: add avocado, sour cream, cheese, or salsa as desired.