If you’re looking for a meal that’s a feast for your senses and your muscles, the High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl is about to become your new go-to. This vibrant bowl serves up juicy, perfectly seasoned steak, a rainbow of sautéed peppers, hearty black beans, creamy avocado, and a pop of fresh lime and cilantro—all nestled on a bed of wholesome brown rice or cauliflower rice. Bursting with flavor, color, and that irresistible fajita sizzle, this dish is as satisfying as it is nourishing. Whether you’re fueling a busy weeknight or meal prepping for the gym, the High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl brings bold taste and serious nutrition to the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl lies in its simple, fresh ingredients—each one playing a starring role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. Every bite offers a little something different, from the juicy steak to the zesty lime finish.
- Flank steak (1 lb): This lean cut packs in protein and, when sliced thinly, stays tender and juicy.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds richness and helps achieve that perfect sear on the steak and veggies.
- Chili powder (1 teaspoon): Brings a gentle heat and deep, earthy flavor to the marinade.
- Cumin (1 teaspoon): Classic fajita spice that adds warmth and a subtle smokiness.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses the steak with a smoky depth that’s simply irresistible.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Delivers a punch of savory flavor in every bite.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- Red bell pepper (1, sliced): Adds sweetness and a gorgeous pop of red color.
- Yellow bell pepper (1, sliced): Offers a mellow sweetness and sunny hue.
- Green bell pepper (1, sliced): Brings a crisp, slightly bitter edge that rounds out the trio.
- Small red onion (1, sliced): Softens beautifully during cooking and adds a touch of tang.
- Cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice (2 cups): Your choice for a hearty or low-carb base—both soak up all those wonderful fajita juices.
- Black beans (1/2 cup, rinsed and drained): Boost the protein and fiber, making the bowl even more filling.
- Avocado (1/2, sliced): Creaminess and healthy fats in one dreamy topping.
- Fresh cilantro (2 tablespoons, chopped): A bright, herby finish that ties the whole bowl together.
- Juice of 1 lime: Adds that final zing—don’t skip it!
How to Make High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl
Step 1: Mix the Fajita Seasoning
Start by whisking together the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This spice blend is the backbone of your High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl, infusing the steak with layers of flavor that will have you craving more.
Step 2: Season and Prep the Steak
Pat your flank steak dry and generously rub the seasoning mix all over both sides. If you have time, let it sit for a few minutes—or even better, marinate it with a splash of lime juice and garlic for extra flavor. This step ensures every slice is bursting with that signature fajita taste.
Step 3: Sear the Steak
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the steak and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your preferred doneness. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain—this keeps it juicy and tender, the way a proper High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl deserves.
Step 4: Sauté the Peppers and Onions
In the same skillet, toss in your sliced bell peppers and red onion. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until they’re softened and slightly charred, soaking up any leftover seasoning and steak juices for maximum flavor.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Divide your cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice between two bowls. Top each with the sliced steak, sautéed peppers and onions, black beans, avocado, and a shower of fresh cilantro. Finish with a squeeze of lime juice over everything to brighten up the whole bowl.
How to Serve High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl
Garnishes
Pile on the fresh cilantro and squeeze extra lime wedges tableside for a burst of freshness. If you like a little creamy contrast, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a few spoonfuls of your favorite salsa. These finishing touches make each High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl look and taste even more special.
Side Dishes
This bowl is satisfying on its own, but if you’re feeding a crowd or just feel like a little extra, serve it with warm corn tortillas, a crisp green salad, or roasted sweet potatoes. The vibrant flavors of the High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl pair well with simple sides that let the main event shine.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the ingredients deconstructed, letting everyone build their own bowl at the table. Or, layer everything in a large platter for a colorful, family-style presentation. However you serve it, the High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl always steals the spotlight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover steak, veggies, rice, and beans in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and makes it easy to build a quick lunch or dinner later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked steak and sautéed veggies for up to 2 months. Let them cool completely before sealing in freezer bags. Rice and beans also freeze well, so you can make extra and have High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl components ready whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
Reheat steak and veggies in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or use the microwave if you’re in a hurry. Add a splash of water or lime juice to keep everything moist and flavorful. Assemble your bowl just before serving for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Absolutely! While flank steak is classic and high in protein, you can use skirt steak, sirloin, or even thinly sliced ribeye. Just be sure to slice against the grain for tenderness in your High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl.
What can I substitute for black beans?
Pinto beans work beautifully, or you can omit beans altogether for a lower-carb option. Chickpeas or even lentils add a unique twist to the High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl.
Is this bowl spicy?
The spice level is mild, but you can easily amp it up by adding a pinch of cayenne or some sliced jalapeños to your High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl. Adjust to suit your taste!
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
The base recipe is naturally dairy-free. If you add toppings like Greek yogurt, just swap it for a plant-based yogurt. Everything else in the High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl is already dairy-free.
Can I meal prep this bowl?
Definitely! Prep all the components ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to eat, quickly reheat and assemble your High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl for an easy, nutritious meal on the go.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a dinner that checks every box—quick, bold, nutritious, and flat-out delicious—give the High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl a try. It’s a meal that’s sure to become a regular in your rotation, delighting everyone at the table with every colorful, flavor-packed bite.
Print
High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl is a flavorful, nutritious meal combining tender flank steak seasoned with bold spices, sautéed colorful bell peppers and onions, and wholesome sides like brown rice or cauliflower rice and black beans. It’s perfect for a satisfying, gluten-free lunch or dinner that packs a protein punch while keeping carbs moderate. Topped with creamy avocado, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime, it offers a fresh and vibrant taste inspired by Mexican-American cuisine.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 lb flank steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables and Sides
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
Toppings and Garnish
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
- Prepare the Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a spice rub for the steak.
- Season the Steak: Rub the spice mix evenly onto both sides of the flank steak, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
- Cook the Steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until it reaches your desired doneness. Remove steak from the pan and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Slice the Steak: Thinly slice the rested steak against the grain to maintain tenderness and enhance texture.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers along with the red onion. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and have slight char marks.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide cooked brown or cauliflower rice between two bowls. Layer with sliced steak, sautéed bell peppers and onions, black beans, and avocado slices.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top and squeeze fresh lime juice over the entire bowl. Serve warm for a delicious, balanced meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the steak in lime juice and minced garlic for 30 minutes before applying the spice rub and cooking.
- Swap brown rice for cauliflower rice to reduce carbohydrate content and make it lower carb.
- Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or drizzle salsa over the bowl to introduce creaminess or heat based on your preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
