Name: Queso Steak Fajita Skillet Quick Meal
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow onion, sliced; 1 teaspoon chili powder; ½ teaspoon cumin; ½ cup prepared queso cheese sauce; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Hey y'all! If you're looking for a dinner that's bursting with flavor, easy to whip up, and perfect for family nights, gatherings, or even busy weeknights, this Queso Steak Fajita Skillet Quick Meal has your name on it. Tender steak, sizzling veggies, and a creamy queso blanket come together in one skillet for a cheesy, mouthwatering meal everyone will love. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Queso Steak Fajita Skillet Quick Meal

Ready in just 30 minutes, making it the ultimate busy-night dinner.
Packed with bold Tex-Mex flavors and creamy queso.
One-pan meal means less cleanup and more family time.
Customizable with your favorite toppings and proteins.
Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal-prepping lunches.

Queso Steak Fajita Skillet Quick Meal Ingredients

1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
2 tablespoon olive oil, divided
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup prepared queso dip (store-bought or homemade)
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Warm flour tortillas, for serving
Lime wedges, for serving

How to Make Queso Steak Fajita Skillet Quick Meal

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Slice the steak thinly against the grain and chop all the veggies. Measure out seasonings and queso so everything’s ready to go.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until just browned, then transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Veggies

Add remaining olive oil to the skillet. Toss in bell peppers and onions, sautéing for 5-6 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized. Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine and Add Queso

Return the steak to the skillet with the veggies and mix well. Pour the queso evenly over the steak and veggies. Reduce heat to low and let everything warm through for 2-3 minutes until melty and bubbling.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve hot with warm tortillas and lime wedges on the side.

Notes for Your Queso Steak Fajita Skillet Quick Meal

Use pre-shredded cheese and melt with a splash of milk for a quick homemade queso; check out this queso dip recipe for inspiration.
Slice steak thinly and against the grain for maximum tenderness.
For extra heat, add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Queso Steak Fajita Skillet Quick Meal Variations

Chicken Queso Skillet: Swap steak for thinly sliced boneless chicken breast or thigh.
Veggie-Lover's Skillet: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or black beans for a vegetarian twist.
Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps instead of tortillas.

Required Equipment for Queso Steak Fajita Skillet Quick Meal

Large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed nonstick skillet
Sharp chef’s knife
Cutting board
Tongs
Measuring spoons

Queso Steak Fajita Skillet Quick Meal Storage & Shelf Life

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Avoid freezing, as queso can separate. For more storage tips, read this leftover storage guide.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings for Queso Steak Fajita Skillet Quick Meal

Serve with warm flour or corn tortillas.
Pair with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp green salad.
Try with guacamole, pico de gallo, or pickled onions for extra flavor.

Pro Tips for the Best Queso Steak Fajita Skillet Quick Meal

Let the steak come to room temperature before cooking for even browning.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook steak in batches if necessary for a perfect sear. Learn more about skillet cooking from Serious Eats.
Warm tortillas before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Queso Steak Fajita Skillet Quick Meal FAQ

Can I use a different type of steak?: Yes! Skirt steak, sirloin, or ribeye all work great in this recipe.
Is this recipe spicy?: It's mildly spicy; adjust the heat easily by adding more or less chili powder or by including sliced jalapeños.
Can I make this ahead of time?: You can prep ingredients ahead and cook just before serving for freshest results. Reheat gently to keep the steak tender and queso creamy.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Queso Steak Fajita Skillet Quick Meal