Easy, family-friendly meals don't get any better than these Slow Cooker Beef Fajitas. This set-it-and-forget-it recipe delivers wonderfully tender meat infused with the bold flavors of traditional fajitas. Perfect for busy families or anyone looking to minimize kitchen time without sacrificing taste.
I hit a point in the summer when, on some days, turning on the oven or stove is about as appealing as spending the day outdoors on a humid 105-degree day.
If it were just me, I'd likely make a simple salad and call it a day. But with two growing boys whose appetites are ever-increasing, this typically isn't an option.
My solution is to dust off my crock pot and create a meal that they will love without having to slave over a hot stove.
I love how my slow cooker keeps me from heating up the house in the summer, but also because it allows me to have more time doing the things I love. (We make these Sandwiches at least once a month and some variation of tacos at least once a week.)
Looking for more Fajita inspiration? Don't miss my air fryer fajitas, slow cooker chicken fajitas, Blackstone fajitas, vegetarian fajitas, and sheet pan chicken fajitas.
Ingredient Notes
- Onion: Any type of onion works here, so if you only have white or red onions, don't hesitate to use them.
- Chipotle Chile in Adobo Sauce: This is where the smoky heat comes in, adding complexity and warmth. If chipotles are too spicy or not readily available, a bit of smoked paprika mixed with your favorite chili powder can be a great alternative.
- Garlic: Running low on fresh garlic? Garlic powder can step in to save the day, though adjust quantities as its flavor is more concentrated.
- Flank Steak: Lean and flavorful, flank steak becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked. No flank steak? Skirt steak or even chuck roast can be excellent substitutes, still giving you that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Tortillas: I'm partial to the sweet, earthy flavor of corn tortillas, but feel free to use whatever option suits your fancy. Flour tortillas or even lettuce wraps can be great alternatives for those looking to switch things up.
Tips and Tricks
- Choosing the Right Cut: Flank steak or skirt steak are my go-tos for beef fajitas. They soak up all the flavors during the slow cooking process and become delightfully tender.
- Layering is Key: Start by placing your veggies at the bottom of the slow cooker. This creates a moisture-rich environment right where you need it. Additionally, it prevents the steak from sticking to the bottom.
- Salsa Selection: Don't underestimate the power of a good salsa! Whether it's a chunky homemade version or your favorite store-bought brand, the salsa not only adds moisture but also infuses the meat and veggies with bold flavors.
- Leftover Love: Beef fajita mix makes an incredible topping for nachos, a hearty filling for quesadillas, or even a flavorful protein boost for salads.
You May Also Like
- Slow Cooker Tri Tip: Imagine slicing into a perfectly tender tri tip that's been bathing in its own juices and spices all day. This recipe is a no-fuss, big-flavor dream come true for those busy weekdays when you want to feel like a dinner hero without the cape.
- Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken: This one is a game changer, folks. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have juicy, flavorful chicken ready to star in tacos, salads, or sandwiches. It's like having a meal-prep fairy in your kitchen, and who wouldn't want that?
- Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs: Sweet, savory, and oh-so-sticky, these chicken thighs are the stuff of legends in our house. The kids gobble them up as if they're going out of style, and let's be honest, the adults aren't far behind. Serve them over rice, and watch them disappear!
- Spicy Crockpot Chili is a comforting bowl of goodness perfect for enjoying all fall and winter long.
Slow Cooker Beef Fajitas
Ingredients
- 1 green pepper cored, seeded and sliced
- 1 red pepper cored, seeded and sliced
- 1 yellow pepper cored, seeded and sliced
- 1 onion sliced
- 1 chipotle chile in adobo sauce minced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 ½ pounds flank steak
- 16 ounces salsa
- For serving: gluten free tortillas I like corn tortillas, Greek yogurt or sour cream, cheese
Instructions
- Place peppers, onions, chipotle chile, and garlic in the slow cooker insert and toss. If necessary, cut meat to fit into your slow cooker. Place meat on top of the vegetables and top with salsa. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Transfer meat to a cutting board and shred. Remove vegetables with a slotted spoon and toss reserved liquid with the meat.
- To serve, place meat and vegetables in tortillas and top with desired toppings.
cathy says
Hi Wendy. Can you tell me how you are measuring the salsa? 16 oz by weight or volume? Thanks Cathy
Wendy Polisi says
I purchased a 16 oz jar.