Sizzling Air Fryer Steak Fajitas

Transform your dinner routine with our incredibly easy and outrageously delicious Air Fryer Steak Fajitas. This recipe promises a full Tex-Mex fiesta on your plate in 20 minutes or less, leaving you with extra time to whip up your favorite sides. It’s not just fast; it’s a naturally low-carb and gluten-free dinner solution that the entire family will absolutely adore.

If you’ve ever cooked steak in an air fryer, you’ll already be familiar with the magic: meat that’s beautifully charred and crispy on the outside, yet incredibly tender and juicy on the inside. This cooking method is truly remarkable! By cutting the steak into strips or cubes before cooking, you not only drastically reduce the cooking time but also increase the surface area available for that irresistible caramelization. This technique ensures every bite is packed with flavor and satisfying texture.

This very principle is what makes air-fried steak bites so universally popular, and it’s the ingenious inspiration behind our air fryer beef fajitas. By combining succulent steak with vibrant bell peppers and sweet onions, all tossed in a robust taco or fajita seasoning, you achieve those bold, authentic Mexican flavors that are a surefire hit with everyone at the table. Get ready for a weeknight meal that tastes like it came straight from your favorite Tex-Mex restaurant, all made effortlessly in your kitchen.

A Note on Air Fryer Models: We’ve successfully prepared this recipe in various air fryer models, including a 5.8-quart Cosori Air Fryer and a 4-quart Ninja Air Fryer. While the fundamental process remains the same, slight variations in cooking times or temperatures may occur depending on your appliance’s brand, size, and wattage. We encourage you to use our guidance and tips as a reliable starting point, making any necessary adjustments based on your specific air fryer’s performance. Always refer to your manufacturer’s instructions for optimal use and safety for your particular model. These tips are designed to help you achieve perfect results, no matter your air fryer.

Essential Ingredients for Stellar Air Fryer Steak Fajitas

Crafting these fantastic fajitas requires just a handful of fresh ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering that authentic Tex-Mex taste. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:

• Steak: Our top recommendation is top sirloin filets, known for their excellent flavor and leaner profile. However, if you prefer, any cut of top sirloin works beautifully. Cutting the steak into 1 ½ to 2-inch cubes ensures quick, even cooking and makes it easy to monitor the internal temperature for perfect doneness with a meat thermometer.
  • For even faster cooking, you can use top sirloin that has already been cut into strips. Keep in mind that these will cook very quickly, and you might need to cook the vegetables separately or add them later to ensure everything finishes at the same time.
  • Other popular cuts often used for traditional fajitas include flank steak and skirt steak. These cuts are also excellent choices but may require slight adjustments to the cooking time due to their varying thickness. Always aim to cut your chosen beef into similar-sized pieces to promote uniform cooking.
  • Regardless of the cut, ensuring the meat is patted dry before seasoning helps create a beautiful sear and allows the spices to adhere better, locking in moisture and flavor.
• Onion and Bell Peppers: These vibrant vegetables are the heart of any good fajita. Slice them into strips or dice them, depending on your preference. The key is to cut them to a size that cooks evenly with the steak.
  • Consider the grates of your air fryer basket; very small pieces might fall through if you don’t line the basket with parchment paper or foil. Using a mix of colored bell peppers (red, yellow, green, orange) not only adds visual appeal but also a spectrum of subtly different flavors.
• Fajita Seasoning: You can opt for a high-quality store-bought blend, but for the freshest flavor and complete control over ingredients, we highly recommend making our easy DIY low-carb blend (details below). It’s simple, quick, and lets you customize the spice level to your liking.
• Lime: A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving is non-negotiable! It brightens all the flavors, adds a zesty tang, and elevates the entire dish, providing that authentic Tex-Mex finish.
• Olive Oil: Essential for coating the meat and vegetables, promoting even cooking, helping the seasoning stick, and contributing to that desirable charred exterior.

Homemade Low-Carb Fajita Seasoning Blend

Our homemade fajita seasoning is a game-changer! It’s our absolute go-to blend, allowing you to perfectly tailor the flavors to your preference and ensure it fits a low-carb or keto lifestyle. Making your own means you can easily adjust the heat level – simply add extra cayenne pepper for more kick, or reduce it for a milder flavor. For those on a keto diet, you can use a sugar substitute or omit sugar entirely without sacrificing taste.

This blend yields approximately 1 ½ Tablespoons, enough for one batch of our Air Fryer Steak Fajitas. Mix the following spices together in a small bowl until well combined:

• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika adds a lovely depth!)
• ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano (Mexican oregano is fantastic if you have it)
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a subtle heat)
• ½ teaspoon sugar substitute (optional, for balance, or omit for stricter keto)

Store any leftover seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, and it will stay fresh for several months, ready for your next fajita craving!

Step-by-Step Directions: Crafting Your Air Fryer Steak Fajitas

Making these fajitas is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect Tex-Mex meal:

Before you begin, ensure your air fryer is preheated. This crucial step ensures that the moment the meat and vegetables hit the basket, they start to sizzle and develop that desirable char. Preheat your air fryer to 390 °F (199 °C) for at least 3-5 minutes with the crisper plate or basket already inside. If you’re concerned about smaller vegetable pieces falling through the grates or wish for easier cleanup, you can optionally line the basket with a perforated parchment paper liner or a small piece of aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn’t obstruct airflow too much.

1. Prepare the Steak: Begin by thoroughly patting your steak dry with paper towels. This is a vital step for achieving a good sear. Next, cut the steak into uniform 1 ½ to 2-inch cubes. In a medium bowl, combine the dried steak cubes with 1 Tablespoon of olive oil and your chosen fajita seasoning (either store-bought or our homemade low-carb blend). Toss well until every piece of steak is evenly coated.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: While your air fryer preheats, slice your bell peppers and onion into strips or dice them to your preferred size. Once the air fryer is hot, carefully add the seasoned beef cubes along with the sliced bell peppers and onions into the air fryer basket. Give the basket a gentle shake to ensure the meat and veggies are distributed in a single layer as much as possible, preventing overcrowding. Some of the seasoned oil from the beef will naturally coat the vegetables, which is exactly what you want for maximum flavor. If, after shaking, you feel the vegetables look a bit dry, a light spritz of a little more olive oil will help them cook perfectly.
3. Air Fry to Perfection: Close the air fryer basket and set it to cook at 390 °F (199 °C) for a total of approximately 9 minutes. This time is a general guideline and will vary based on your specific air fryer model, the thickness of your steak cubes, and how full the basket is.
   • Mid-Cook Shake: After about 3 minutes, pause the air fryer and give the basket a good shake to redistribute the contents. This promotes even cooking and browning. Repeat this shaking process at 2-minute intervals until the beef reaches your desired doneness.
   • Check for Doneness: The most accurate way to check for doneness is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. Carefully lift a piece of steak out of the air fryer and insert the thermometer into the center. The USDA recommends cooking beef to an internal temperature of 145 °F (63 °C) for medium-rare. Keep in mind that the internal temperature will continue to rise by a few degrees even after the meat is removed from the heat (carryover cooking). For a warm, pink center (medium-rare), aim to remove the steak when it reaches 130 °F to 135 °F (54-57 °C).
4. Rest and Serve: Once the steak reaches your desired doneness, immediately remove it from the air fryer basket and transfer it to a plate or cutting board. Allow the steak to rest for at least 5 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is tender and incredibly juicy. After resting, slice the steak against the grain into bite-sized strips. Squeeze fresh lime juice generously over the top of the steak and vegetables. Serve immediately with your favorite low-carb bases and toppings. Enjoy your homemade Tex-Mex feast!

Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips

Having leftover fajitas is always a treat! Here’s how to best store and reheat your Air Fryer Steak Fajitas to maintain their deliciousness:

• Storing Leftovers: Once cooled, place any leftover fajita meat and vegetables in an airtight storage container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures freshness and safety.
• Reheating for Best Results: For optimal flavor and texture, we recommend reheating leftovers in a skillet over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally until the meat and vegetables are thoroughly warmed through. This method helps to re-crisp the edges of the steak and prevents the vegetables from becoming soggy. Alternatively, you can reheat this dish in the microwave until warmed through, though the texture might be slightly softer.
• Freezing: If you’re planning for meal prep or have a larger batch, leftover fajitas freeze beautifully. Transfer the cooled meat and vegetables to an airtight, freezer-safe storage container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using the skillet method.

More Easy Tex-Mex Recipes You’ll Love

If you’re a fan of the vibrant flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine, explore these other simple and delicious recipes:

• Healthy Taco Salad Dressing with 2 Ingredients!
• One Avocado Guacamole Recipe
• Mexican Street Style Cauliflower {Low-carb Elote Recipe}

📋 Recipe Card: Air Fryer Steak Fajitas

This recipe combines quick cooking with incredible flavor, perfect for a speedy weeknight dinner.

Air Fryer Steak Fajitas

Easy Air Fryer Steak Fajitas are ready in 20 minutes or less. Use the extra time to make sides and turn this low-carb dinner recipe into a Tex-Mex fiesta!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (Based on 1 vote)

Print Recipe | Pin Recipe | Rate This Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Author: Marjory Pilley

Equipment

• Air Fryer
• Instant-read meat thermometer (recommended)

Ingredients

• 1 pound top sirloin filets or top sirloin cut into 1 ½ to 2 inch cubes
• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon Fajita Seasoning (see recipe below for homemade)
• ½ cup sliced bell pepper (any color)
• ½ cup sliced onion
• 1 lime, for serving

Homemade Low-Carb Fajita Seasoning

(Yields about 1 ½ Tablespoons)

• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon cumin
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon Stevia Blend (optional, or other sugar substitute)
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, or to taste!)

Instructions

1. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your empty air fryer with the crisper plate or basket in place to 390 °F (199 °C) for 3-5 minutes.
2. Prepare Steak: Pat the beef cubes thoroughly dry. While the air fryer is heating up, toss the beef cubes with olive oil and the fajita seasoning in a medium bowl until well coated.
3. Combine and Load: Carefully pour the seasoned beef cubes, sliced bell peppers, and onions into the preheated air fryer basket. Gently shake the basket to combine and distribute the ingredients as evenly as possible. The oil and seasoning from the beef will coat the vegetables, enhancing their flavor. If any vegetables appear dry, a light spritz of olive oil can be added.
4. Air Fry: Set the air fryer to 390 °F (199 °C) and cook for a total of about 9 minutes.
   • After 3 minutes, pause the air fryer and shake the basket vigorously to ensure even cooking.
   • Repeat shaking at 2-minute intervals thereafter until the beef cubes reach your desired doneness.
   • Checking Doneness: Cooking time will vary by machine, cube thickness, and basket fullness. The best method is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of a beef cube. For medium-rare (pink center), remove at 130 °F to 135 °F (54-57 °C). The USDA recommends 145 °F (63 °C) for beef. Remember, the internal temperature will continue to rise slightly after cooking.
5. Rest and Serve: Remove the cooked steak and vegetables from the basket and allow the steak to rest for a couple of minutes before slicing it against the grain into bite-sized pieces. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness. Squeeze fresh lime juice generously over the top of the fajitas.
6. Enjoy: Serve hot on low-carb tortillas, lettuce wraps, cauliflower rice, or as part of a salad, with your favorite low-carb toppings.

Instructions for Homemade Low Carb Fajita Seasoning

1. Mix all listed spices together in a small bowl until thoroughly combined. Use immediately or store in an airtight container.

Notes

You’ll find more expert tips, topping ideas, and step-by-step pictures earlier in the article!

• Stovetop Directions: If an air fryer isn’t available, you can still enjoy these fajitas! Follow the directions for preparing the beef cubes and vegetables. Heat 1 Tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet (cast iron works wonderfully) over high heat. Add the beef cubes in a single layer and allow them to cook, untouched, for several minutes on each side until they form a delicious crust and reach your desired doneness. Remove the beef and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, add the sliced vegetables to the same pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are charred and softened.
• Air Fryer Disclaimer: Please note that cooking outcomes can vary slightly between different brands and sizes of air fryers. Always follow the instructions provided by your appliance’s manufacturer and adjust cooking times or temperatures based on your experience. We aim to provide comprehensive tips to ensure this recipe is successful for you, regardless of your air fryer model.
• Storage: Store cooled leftover fajita meat and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: For best texture, reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Alternatively, microwave until warmed through.
• Freezing: Leftovers can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition Information

Nutritional and Food Safety Disclaimer