Beef Fajita Bake
Get ready to enjoy a sizzling, cheesy Beef Fajita Bake that’s packed with vibrant flavors and colorful veggies! This easy-to-make, one-dish wonder transforms classic fajita ingredients into a mouthwatering casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a casual get-together. Serve it with warm tortillas, salsa, and a dollop of sour cream for a complete meal!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef sirloin, sliced into strips – Use tender beef sirloin or flank steak for best results.
- 1 large bell pepper, sliced – Choose your favorite color or use a combination for extra color and sweetness.
- 1 medium onion, sliced – Adds a mellow sweetness that complements the beef.
- 1 packet (1 oz) fajita seasoning mix – For a flavorful blend of spices that brings the fajita essence.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into gooey perfection on top of the fajitas.
- 1/4 cup salsa – Adds a zesty, tangy kick to the dish.
- 1/4 cup sour cream – To cool down the spice and add creaminess.
- Tortillas for serving – Flour or corn tortillas are perfect for wrapping up all the delicious ingredients.
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Cook the Beef Strips
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the beef sirloin strips until they are browned and cooked through. This should take about 4-5 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Veggies and Seasoning
- Add the sliced bell pepper and onion to the skillet. Sprinkle the fajita seasoning mix over the beef and vegetables. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
- Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 5: Bake
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Serve hot with salsa, sour cream, and warm tortillas on the side. Enjoy making your own beef fajita wraps!
Helpful Tips:
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts smoother and tastes better.
- Customize the Veggies: Add sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or even corn for extra texture and flavor.
- Make it Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
- Use a Cast Iron Skillet: If you have a cast iron skillet, use it for cooking the beef and veggies, then transfer it directly to the oven!
Storage and Reheating Tips:
- Storing: Let the casserole cool completely, then cover and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or cover the whole dish with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen! Wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs:
- Can I use a different cut of beef?
- Yes, flank steak or skirt steak also work well in this recipe.
- Can I substitute the fajita seasoning?
- If you don’t have a packet, make your own with a blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- What type of cheese can I use?
- Try using Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for extra flavor.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, cook the beef and veggies, then assemble and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
- What sides go well with this dish?
- Serve it with a side of Spanish rice, black beans, or a fresh avocado salad.
- Can I use chicken instead of beef?
- Absolutely! Swap the beef for chicken breast or thigh strips.
- How can I make this dish healthier?
- Use lean beef, low-fat cheese, and add more veggies like bell peppers and spinach.
- Can I make this gluten-free?
- Yes, use gluten-free tortillas and check the fajita seasoning packet for gluten.
- Can I use pre-cooked beef?
- Yes, just add it in Step 3 along with the veggies to warm it through.
- Can I add beans?
- Sure! Black beans or pinto beans would be a great addition.
- Is this recipe kid-friendly?
- Yes, it’s mild and cheesy. You can reduce the seasoning if needed.
- How do I make this dairy-free?
- Use dairy-free cheese and skip the sour cream or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.
- Can I use ground beef?
- Yes, ground beef will work. Just cook it thoroughly before adding the veggies.
- What can I use instead of sour cream?
- Try using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
- How long does it take to prepare?
- The total time is about 30 minutes, making it a quick weeknight dinner.
- Can I make this in a slow cooker?
- Yes, cook the beef and veggies first, then transfer to a slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours.
- What if I don’t have salsa?
- Use diced tomatoes or a can of Rotel instead.
- Can I use frozen peppers and onions?
- Yes, just thaw and drain them before adding to the skillet.
- What other toppings go well with this?
- Try guacamole, pickled jalapeños, or chopped cilantro.
- Can I serve this over rice?
- Definitely! It’s delicious served over a bed of cilantro lime rice.
Secrets for Culinary Perfection:
- Sear the Beef Well: A good sear on the beef adds depth and flavor.
- Use Fresh Veggies: Fresh bell peppers and onions hold up better in baking.
- Add Lime Juice: A squeeze of lime before serving brightens up the flavors.
- Let the Cheese Bubble: Bake until the cheese is just starting to brown for maximum flavor.
- Avoid Overcooking the Veggies: Keep the peppers slightly crisp for the best texture.
- Use High Heat: When cooking the beef, high heat helps achieve a quick sear without overcooking.
- Add More Cheese: Mix some cheese into the beef mixture for extra creaminess.
- Layer the Flavors: Season the beef as it cooks to build layers of flavor.
- Include More Veggies: Add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to make it heartier.
- Top with Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and avocado add a fresh contrast to the baked dish.
- Try a Different Protein: Swap out the beef for shrimp or tofu for a new twist.
- Marinate the Beef First: For extra flavor, marinate the beef in lime juice and spices before cooking.
- Add a Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika in the seasoning mix.
- Make it Cheesier: Layer some cheese between the beef mixture before baking.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: Crushed tortilla chips or crispy onions add a fun texture.
- Use a Cast Iron Skillet: For an authentic fajita experience, cook the beef and veggies in a cast iron pan.
- Let it Rest: Let the bake sit for a few minutes after baking for the best texture.
- Serve with Pickled Onions: Pickled onions add a tangy, vibrant kick.
- Use Fire-Roasted Salsa: Fire-roasted salsa adds a smoky depth to the dish.
- Balance with a Sweet Note: Add a pinch of brown sugar to the beef mixture for a touch of sweetness.
