Shrimp and Steak Fajitas: A Beginner’s Guide to a Flavorful, Quick, and Easy Meal
Sizzling shrimp, juicy steak, and charred peppers come together in these mouthwatering fajitas! Bursting with bold flavors and cooked to perfection, this easy recipe makes taco night feel like a fiesta. Wrap it up, add your favorite toppings, and dig in! 🥑🧅
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 lb Sliced Sirloin (or substitute with boneless, skinless chicken breast sliced into strips)
- 1 tbsp Chili Powder
- 1 tsp Cayenne Pepper (adjust to taste for spice level)
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 2 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 2 Bell Peppers (sliced, any color)
- 3 Jalapeños (sliced, adjust based on spice preference)
- 1 Onion (sliced)
- 1 tbsp Soy Sauce
- Olive Oil (for cooking)
- Flour or Corn Tortillas (for serving)
Roasted Jalapeño Crema
- 1 Avocado
- ½ cup Sour Cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
- 2 cloves Garlic
- ¼ cup Cilantro (fresh)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp Lime Juice
Instructions
1. Prepare the Proteins
Before cooking, it’s essential to properly prep the shrimp and steak (or chicken).
- Pat the shrimp and steak dry with a paper towel. This helps them sear properly and prevents steaming in the pan.
- Divide the shrimp and steak into separate bowls. If using chicken instead of steak, follow the same process.
2. Mix the Spice Blend
In a small bowl, combine:
- Chili powder
- Cayenne pepper
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Cumin
- Smoked paprika
Whisk together until well combined.
3. Season the Proteins
- Sprinkle half of the spice blend over the shrimp, tossing to coat evenly.
- Use the remaining half to season the steak or chicken.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook the Steak or Chicken
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Drizzle in olive oil and allow it to heat up.
- Add the steak strips (or chicken) and cook for 2-4 minutes per side until browned.
- Remove from the skillet and place onto a serving plate.
5. Cook the Shrimp
- In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed.
- Add the shrimp and cook for 3-5 minutes, until they turn pink and slightly curled.
- Remove from the skillet and place onto the serving plate with the steak or chicken.
6. Sauté the Vegetables
- Add sliced bell peppers, onions, and jalapeños to the skillet.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and slightly charred.
- Add soy sauce and stir for another minute.
- Remove from the skillet and transfer to a serving bowl.
7. Make the Roasted Jalapeño Crema
- Place roasted jalapeños, avocado, sour cream, garlic, cilantro, salt, and lime juice into a food processor.
- Blend until smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Assemble and Serve
- Warm the flour or corn tortillas on a dry skillet or directly over a flame for a slight char.
- Fill each tortilla with a mix of steak (or chicken), shrimp, and sautéed vegetables.
- Drizzle with roasted jalapeño crema.
- Serve immediately with extra lime wedges and your favorite toppings.
Notes
How to Avoid Overcooking Shrimp
Shrimp cook very quickly, so watch for signs that they are done—pink, opaque, and slightly curled. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so remove them from the pan as soon as they reach the right color and texture.
Getting the Perfect Sear on Steak or Chicken
- Ensure the meat is completely dry before seasoning.
- Use a hot pan and avoid moving the meat too much while searing.
- Let the steak or chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices.
What to Do if Vegetables Overcook
If the peppers or onions become too soft, mix them with fresh chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime to brighten up the flavors.