Sizzling High-Protein Steak Fajitas

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Sizzling High-Protein Steak Fajitas: A Low-Carb Mexican Classic Inspired by The Protein Advantage Cookbook

The cover of The Protein Advantage Cookbook by Carolyn Ketchum perfectly captures the essence of high-protein, low-carb eating: a vibrant plate of sizzling steak fajitas loaded with colorful bell peppers, onions, fresh avocado slices, lime wedges, and cilantro. This iconic dish embodies the book’s philosophy—delicious, satisfying meals that prioritize protein to burn fat, build muscle, and restore metabolism without sacrificing flavor.

These Sizzling High-Protein Steak Fajitas deliver tender, juicy strips of flank steak marinated in bold Mexican spices, paired with charred peppers and onions for that authentic restaurant-style sizzle. Naturally low in carbs (under 10g net per serving), gluten-free, and packed with over 40g of protein, it’s the ultimate weeknight dinner or meal-prep hero. Serve in low-carb tortillas, over cauliflower rice, or as a hearty bowl—customize to your macros while enjoying explosive Tex-Mex taste.

Inspired by the high-protein focus of modern low-carb cooking, this recipe keeps things simple, flavorful, and family-friendly. Ready in under 30 minutes (plus optional marinating), it’s proof that healthy eating can be exciting and indulgent.

Why These Steak Fajitas Are a High-Protein Winner

This dish shines for countless reasons in a protein-priority lifestyle.

  • Exceptional protein content → Flank steak provides lean, high-quality protein essential for muscle repair, satiety, and metabolic health.
  • Ultra low-carb → Vegetables add fiber and nutrients without spiking blood sugar—perfect for keto or low-carb plans.
  • Bold, authentic flavor → A homemade spice marinade rivals restaurant fajitas, with smoky cumin, chili, and fresh lime brightness.
  • Quick and versatile → One-skillet wonder that’s great for busy evenings, batch cooking, or entertaining.
  • Nutrient-dense → Loaded with vitamins from peppers (vitamin C powerhouse), onions, and optional avocado for healthy fats.
  • Customizable → Adjust heat, add cheese or sour cream for extra protein, or swap steak for chicken/shrimp.

Home cooks love fajitas for their interactive fun—everyone builds their own. This version elevates it with protein-forward tweaks, making it satisfying without heaviness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe serves 4 generously (about 45g protein per serving).

For the Marinade and Steak:

  • 1.5 pounds (680g) flank steak, skirt steak, or sirloin (thinly sliced against the grain)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil (divided)
  • Juice of 2 limes (about ¼ cup)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: ¼-½ teaspoon cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat

For the Vegetables:

  • 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced into strips
  • 1 large red onion, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving (Low-Carb Options):

  • Low-carb tortillas (almond flour or coconut flour)
  • Cauliflower rice
  • Sliced avocado or guacamole
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Lime wedges
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Shredded cheese (cheddar or cotija)
  • Salsa or pico de gallo

Ingredient notes:

  • Steak — Flank or skirt offers best flavor and tenderness when sliced thin.
  • Spices — Homemade blend is fresher and sodium-controlled.
  • Low-carb wraps — Choose under 5g net carbs per tortilla.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Marinate the steak: In a bowl or zip-top bag, whisk lime juice, 2 tablespoons oil, garlic, and all spices. Add sliced steak, toss to coat. Marinate 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 8 hours in fridge for deeper flavor.
  2. Prep vegetables: Slice peppers and onion into uniform strips for even cooking.
  3. Cook the vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high. Add peppers and onion, season with salt/pepper. Sauté 6-8 minutes until softened and charred. Remove to a plate.
  4. Sear the steak: In the same hot skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon oil. Remove steak from marinade (discard excess). Cook in batches 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare. Avoid overcrowding for proper sear.
  5. Combine and sizzle: Return vegetables to skillet with steak. Toss 1-2 minutes to meld flavors and reheat veggies.
  6. Rest and slice (if needed): If using whole steak, rest 5 minutes then slice thinly against grain.
  7. Serve immediately: Pile sizzling mixture onto plates or bowls. Top with avocado, cilantro, lime squeeze, and desired fixings.

That signature fajita sizzle and aroma will have everyone rushing to the table!

Essential Tips for Perfect Fajitas Every Time

  • Slice against the grain → Ensures tender bites.
  • High heat sear → Creates caramelization and flavor.
  • Don’t overcook steak → Aim for medium-rare to medium.
  • Cast iron magic → Best for authentic char and sizzle.
  • Meal prep friendly → Store components separately; reheat gently.
  • Make it milder/spicier → Adjust cayenne accordingly.
  • Vegetarian swap → Use portobello mushrooms or tofu for plant-based.

Delicious Variations

  • Chicken Fajitas → Swap steak for chicken thighs (same marinade).
  • Shrimp Version → Quick-cooking shrimp with same spices.
  • Sheet Pan Style → Bake at 425°F for hands-off ease.
  • Fajita Bowls → Over cauliflower rice with extra toppings.
  • Loaded → Add cheese and cream for higher fat/protein.
  • Veggie Boost → Include zucchini or mushrooms.

How to Serve High-Protein Steak Fajitas

  • Low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps
  • Cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles
  • Side salad with avocado dressing
  • Mexican-inspired slaw

Pair with sparkling water and lime or a low-carb margarita.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerator → Up to 4 days in airtight containers.
  • Freezer → Steak and veggies up to 3 months.
  • Reheating → Skillet over medium heat with splash of oil.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

Without tortillas:

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 45g
  • Fat: 28g
  • Total Carbs: 10g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Net Carbs: 7g

These sizzling high-protein steak fajitas capture the spirit of protein-priority eating—bold, satisfying, and health-supporting. Make them tonight and experience the advantage for yourself!

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