Keto Beef Fajitas with Lettuce Leaves offer a healthy and delicious twist on the traditional fajitas, making it the perfect dish for those following a low-carb or keto lifestyle. The combination of tender, flavorful flank steak, sautéed bell peppers, and onions, all seasoned with chili powder and cumin, makes this dish bursting with flavor. Instead of the usual tortilla, the fajita filling is served in crisp lettuce leaves, making it an excellent low-carb option that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

This recipe is quick to prepare and cooks in just under 30 minutes, making it a great weeknight dinner or a delicious meal for entertaining. The lettuce provides a crisp, light alternative to tortillas while adding a fresh crunch to complement the savory beef and vegetables. With optional toppings like sour cream, cheese, and salsa, you can customize these fajitas to suit your tastes, making them a versatile and satisfying meal for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Keto Beef Fajitas are not only low in carbs but also high in flavor. The tender slices of flank steak absorb the rich spices, creating a mouthwatering filling that pairs perfectly with the sweet bell peppers and savory onions. The lettuce leaves act as the perfect vessel, holding all the delicious ingredients while keeping the dish light and refreshing. With the addition of customizable toppings like cheese and salsa, these fajitas are sure to satisfy all your cravings. Plus, they’re quick to prepare, making them a great choice for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Flank steak
Red bell pepper
Green bell pepper
Onion
Garlic
Olive oil
Chili powder
Cumin
Salt and pepper
Lettuce leaves
Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa

Variations

Chicken Fajitas: Substitute the flank steak with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for a lighter version of the dish.
Vegetarian Fajitas: Skip the meat entirely and load up the fajitas with extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for a flavorful vegetarian option.
Different seasonings: Experiment with other spices such as paprika, cayenne pepper, or oregano for a unique flavor twist.
Cheese option: Use shredded mozzarella or a Mexican cheese blend for added richness.
Grilled version: Instead of cooking everything in a skillet, try grilling the steak and vegetables for a smoky flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the steak

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced flank steak and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until browned on all sides. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the vegetables

In the same skillet, add the sliced red and green bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Season the mixture

Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper over the steak and vegetable mixture. Stir everything together, allowing the spices to coat the ingredients evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Assemble the fajitas

Spoon the beef and vegetable mixture into fresh lettuce leaves. Serve with your choice of optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and salsa.

Step 5: Enjoy!

Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, healthy, and flavorful fajitas!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t overcook the steak: Since flank steak is a lean cut, it’s best to cook it just until browned on the outside to avoid it becoming tough.
Use large lettuce leaves: Large leaves like iceberg or butter lettuce work best for wrapping the fajita mixture. Make sure the leaves are sturdy enough to hold the filling without tearing.
Customize the toppings: You can add sliced avocado, guacamole, or jalapeños for extra flavor and creaminess.
Make ahead: If you’re short on time, you can prepare the beef and vegetable mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve

These Keto Beef Fajitas are perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. Serve them with a side of guacamole, a fresh avocado salad, or cauliflower rice to make the meal even more filling. These fajitas also work well as a party appetizer – just serve the beef and vegetable mixture in a bowl, and let guests assemble their own lettuce wraps.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover fajita filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The steak and vegetables will stay fresh, but the lettuce leaves should be used immediately for the best texture.

Freezing

While the beef and vegetable mixture can be frozen, the lettuce leaves do not freeze well. Store the filling in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop before serving.

Reheating

To reheat the beef and vegetable mixture, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. If needed, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the filling from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use other cuts of beef instead of flank steak?

Yes, you can use other cuts of beef like sirloin or skirt steak. Just be sure to slice the meat thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.

2. Are these fajitas spicy?

The recipe is mildly spicy due to the chili powder and cumin. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add more chili powder or even some cayenne pepper.

3. Can I make the fajitas without oil?

While olive oil helps to cook the steak and vegetables, you can use any oil you prefer or even skip it if you’d like to reduce calories.

4. Can I use spinach or other greens instead of lettuce?

Yes, spinach or even Swiss chard leaves can be used as a wrap alternative to lettuce.

5. How can I make the fajitas more filling?

You can add some extra toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado to make the fajitas more hearty.

6. Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the beef and vegetable mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.

7. Can I grill the vegetables instead of sautéing them?

Absolutely! Grilling the vegetables will give them a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the beef.

8. How can I make the fajitas more flavorful?

Consider adding more seasonings like smoked paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder to the steak and vegetable mixture for added depth of flavor.

9. Can I use a different type of pepper?

If you prefer, you can use other bell peppers or even add spicy peppers like jalapeños for extra heat.

10. Can I eat these fajitas as part of a meal prep plan?

Yes, the beef and vegetable filling stores well for meal prep. You can easily prepare individual portions to enjoy throughout the week.

Conclusion

Keto Beef Fajitas with Lettuce Leaves are the perfect low-carb alternative to traditional fajitas, offering all the delicious flavors you love without the added carbs. The combination of savory flank steak, tender vegetables, and flavorful spices makes this dish irresistible. Plus, the lettuce wraps provide a refreshing crunch that pairs perfectly with the rich and juicy filling. With easy preparation, quick cooking time, and endless customization options, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy it as a weeknight dinner or share it with friends and family for a healthy and satisfying meal.