Mexican Skillet Steak – Bold Flavor in One Pan

This Mexican Skillet Steak is a fast, flavor-packed dinner that brings the heat and heartiness of Tex-Mex cooking straight to your kitchen. Featuring tender strips of lean steak, colorful peppers, and zesty spices—all simmered in one pan—this dish is both satisfying and surprisingly light. Serve it over cauliflower rice, in warm tortillas, or with a side of black beans for a well-rounded meal that fits right into your healthy routine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
Fast & Filling: Ready in 25 minutes or less.
Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to your liking.
Protein-Packed: Lean steak keeps it hearty without being heavy.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean flank or sirloin steak, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 medium green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 small red onion, sliced
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • Optional toppings: avocado slices, light sour cream, salsa

Instructions

1. Season the Steak
In a bowl, toss the steak with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let sit while you prep the vegetables.

2. Cook the Steak
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil or spray lightly with cooking spray. Sear the steak slices for 2–3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to your liking. Remove from skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet, add peppers and onion. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized. Add a splash of water or lime juice to deglaze the pan if needed.

4. Finish and Serve
Return the steak to the pan and stir to combine with the veggies. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top. Garnish with cilantro if desired. Serve hot.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: 260
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fat: 10g
Protein: 32g
Fiber: 2g

Serving Suggestions

  • Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps.
  • Classic Style: Wrap in whole wheat tortillas for a fajita-style meal.
  • Add Sides: Pair with black beans, salsa, or a corn and tomato salad.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Tips for Success

  • Thin Slicing is Key: Cutting the steak thin ensures quick cooking and tenderness.
  • Use a Hot Pan: Searing the steak on high heat locks in flavor.
  • Deglaze with Lime: It adds brightness and lifts up all those tasty browned bits.
  • Spice It Up: Add jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce if you like extra heat.

Why This Recipe Works

This dish delivers everything you love about Mexican-inspired cuisine—bold seasoning, vibrant vegetables, and juicy steak—without relying on heavy sauces or added fats. It’s a flavorful, protein-rich meal that satisfies without slowing you down.

Mexican Skillet Steak is your weeknight solution for bold, fast, and feel-good eating. With one pan, a few spices, and tender steak, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in minutes. Whether served traditionally or with a modern twist, it’s a recipe that’s easy to love and even easier to make part of your routine.

Mexican Skillet Steak – Bold Flavor in One Pan

Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

15

minutes
Calories

260

kcal
Total time

25

minutes

This Mexican Skillet Steak is a fast, flavor-packed dinner that brings the heat and heartiness of Tex-Mex cooking straight to your kitchen. Featuring tender strips of lean steak, colorful peppers, and zesty spices—all simmered in one pan—this dish is both satisfying and surprisingly light. Serve it over cauliflower rice, in warm tortillas, or with a side of black beans for a well-rounded meal that fits right into your healthy routine.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean flank or sirloin steak, thinly sliced against the grain

  • 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray

  • 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced

  • 1 medium green bell pepper, sliced

  • 1 small red onion, sliced

  • 1 tsp chili powder

  • 1 tsp ground cumin

  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder

  • Juice of 1 lime

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

  • Optional toppings: avocado slices, light sour cream, salsa

Instructions

  • Season the Steak
    In a bowl, toss the steak with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let sit while you prep the vegetables.
  • Cook the Steak
    Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil or spray lightly with cooking spray. Sear the steak slices for 2–3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to your liking. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  • Sauté the Veggies
    In the same skillet, add peppers and onion. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized. Add a splash of water or lime juice to deglaze the pan if needed.
  • Finish and Serve
    Return the steak to the pan and stir to combine with the veggies. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top. Garnish with cilantro if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Thin Slicing is Key: Cutting the steak thin ensures quick cooking and tenderness.
    Use a Hot Pan: Searing the steak on high heat locks in flavor.
    Deglaze with Lime: It adds brightness and lifts up all those tasty browned bits.
    Spice It Up: Add jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce if you like extra heat.

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