High protein steak fajita bowl with colorful vegetables and low-carb ingredients, perfect for a healthy, low-carb meal

High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl – Low Carb

The High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl is a tasty, filling meal that’s packed with flavor and perfect if you’re watching your carbs. It features juicy strips of seasoned steak, colorful…

Emily By Emily Reading time: 6 min
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The High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl is a tasty, filling meal that’s packed with flavor and perfect if you’re watching your carbs. It features juicy strips of seasoned steak, colorful bell peppers, and onions, all served over a bed of fresh greens or cauliflower rice to keep it light and low carb. The combination of tender meat and crisp veggies makes every bite exciting and satisfying.

I love making this fajita bowl on busy weeknights because it comes together quickly and feels hearty enough to keep me going. The spices on the steak give it that classic fajita taste, and I usually add a little salsa or avocado on top to add some creaminess and extra zest. It’s one of those meals that feels like a treat but is actually really good for you.

When I serve this bowl, I like to have a squeeze of lime on top and some fresh cilantro to brighten up the flavors. It’s a great way to enjoy all the fun of a fajita without the extra carbs from tortillas. Plus, it’s easily customizable—swap out the steak for chicken or add some cheese if that’s your thing. Either way, it’s a simple, delicious way to get a protein-packed dinner on the table.

High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl - Low Carb

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Steak
Flank or sirloin steak works great because they’re lean and cook quickly. If you want a budget-friendly option, skirt steak or even chicken breast can be swapped in. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Bell Peppers and Onions
These veggies bring color and crunch. If you don’t like bell peppers, try zucchini or mushrooms for a different texture. Onions add sweetness, but scallions or shallots work too.
Cauliflower Rice
This is the low-carb base instead of regular rice. You can buy pre-riced cauliflower or make your own by pulsing cauliflower florets in a food processor. If you prefer, shredded cabbage or zucchini noodles are good low-carb swaps.
Cheese
Feta or cotija add a nice salty touch that pairs well with the spices. For a dairy-free option, omit the cheese or try avocado slices instead for creaminess.

How Do You Get Tender, Flavorful Steak Every Time?

Cooking steak for fajitas can be tricky if it ends up tough. Here’s how to keep it tender and delicious:

  • Slice steak thin against the grain—this breaks up muscle fibers and keeps it tender.
  • Season well with spices before cooking so the flavors soak in.
  • Cook over medium-high heat quickly (3-4 minutes per side) to get a good sear but avoid overcooking.
  • Let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep juices inside.
  • Slicing after resting also makes it easier to cut and enjoy.

Following these simple steps ensures your steak stays juicy and tasty in every bite.

Equipment You’ll Need

  • Large skillet – perfect for cooking the steak and sautéing the peppers and onions all in one pan.
  • Knife and cutting board – for slicing steak and veggies evenly to ensure quick, even cooking.
  • Spatula or tongs – helps flip steak pieces without breaking them apart.
  • Small bowl – to mix and toss your fajita seasoning with the steak.
  • Steamer or another skillet – for cooking the cauliflower rice nicely without drying it out.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

  • Swap steak for grilled chicken or shrimp for a lighter twist while keeping protein high.
  • Mix in sautéed mushrooms or zucchini strips to add more veggies and fiber.
  • Add a dollop of guacamole or sliced avocado for creaminess and healthy fats.
  • Sprinkle shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a richer, melty option.

High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl – Low Carb

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Steak and Veggies:

  • 1 lb flank steak or sirloin steak, thinly sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Bowl:

  • 2 cups cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup corn kernels (optional for low carb; reduce if strictly low carb)
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese or cotija cheese
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lime wedges, for serving

How Much Time Will You Need?

This meal comes together in about 25-30 minutes. It takes roughly 10 minutes to prep all the veggies and steak, 10 minutes to cook everything, and a few extra minutes to assemble your bowls and garnish before serving. It’s a quick and satisfying low-carb meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Season the Steak:

In a small bowl, mix the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this spice blend evenly over your thinly sliced steak and toss well to coat each piece with flavor.

2. Cook the Steak:

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak slices in a single layer and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked to your liking. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside to rest.

3. Sauté the Vegetables:

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Toss in the sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers along with the onion. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender and have a nice slight char.

4. Prepare the Cauliflower Rice and Corn:

While the veggies cook, steam or sauté the cauliflower rice in a separate pan with a little olive oil for about 5 minutes until tender. If using corn, warm it up quickly in another pan.

5. Assemble the Fajita Bowls:

Divide the cauliflower rice evenly in serving bowls. Arrange the cooked steak, peppers with onions, and corn around or on top. Sprinkle with crumbled feta or cotija cheese and fresh chopped cilantro.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your steak fajita bowls with lime wedges on the side to squeeze over. The lime juice adds a bright, fresh flavor that ties everything together beautifully.

High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl - Low Carb

High Protein Steak Fajita Bowl — FAQ

Low-carb, fast, and easy to meal-prep.

Can I Use Frozen Steak for This Recipe?

Yes—just thaw fully in the refrigerator overnight, then pat dry before cooking. For best tenderness, slice against the grain. A quick 15–30 minute marinade (lime juice, oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic) boosts flavor. Sear in a very hot skillet and rest 5 minutes before slicing.
What Can I Substitute for Cauliflower Rice?

Try shredded cabbage (quick sauté), zucchini noodles (salt, blot, and flash-sauté), broccoli rice, spaghetti squash, or a chopped romaine base for a fajita salad—still low-carb with different textures.
How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store steak, veggies, and toppings separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat steak and peppers briefly (skillet or microwave) to avoid overcooking; keep fresh toppings (avocado, pico, lettuce) cold and add after reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?

Add cayenne, sliced jalapeños or serranos, or chipotle powder to the seasoning. Finish with hot sauce or a spicy salsa. For milder heat, remove chile seeds and membranes.

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