We’ve always been captivated by the bold, sizzling flavors of Lupe Tortilla’s beef fajitas—a Tex-Mex staple that originated from the vibrant streets of Mexico and Texas. These mouthwatering strips of marinated beef served with warm tortillas embody the perfect blend of spice and freshness that makes every bite an adventure.
In our version we’ll share tips to recreate this restaurant favorite right in your kitchen. It’s an easy way to bring authentic taste to your table whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a casual weeknight meal.
Ingredients
In our Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita recipe, we gather fresh, high-quality ingredients to recreate the bold, smoky flavors of this Tex-Mex classic right in your kitchen. Below, we list them in the order they’re used, with prep notes for accuracy and ease.
For the Marinade and Beef
- Beef skirt steak: 1.5 pounds, sliced thinly against the grain for tenderness and quick cooking – this is the star of our Lupe Tortilla-style fajitas, ensuring juicy, flavorful bites.
- Fresh lime juice: ¼ cup, freshly squeezed from about 2 limes – adds zesty acidity to tenderize the meat.
- Garlic cloves: 4 cloves, minced – provides a pungent, aromatic base that infuses the beef with depth.
- Olive oil: ¼ cup – used for marinating and grilling to achieve that perfect char.
- Ground cumin: 1 tablespoon – a key Tex-Mex spice that delivers earthy warmth.
- Chili powder: 1 tablespoon – brings the signature spicy kick reminiscent of Lupe Tortilla’s bold profile.
- Salt and black pepper: 1 teaspoon each, to taste – seasons the beef for enhanced flavor before marinating.
For the Vegetables and Tortillas
- Bell peppers: 2 medium (one red and one green), sliced into thin strips – these add vibrant color and sweet crunch when sautéed.
- Yellow onion: 1 large, sliced thinly – offers a caramelized contrast that complements the beef’s richness.
- Flour tortillas: 8 large, warmed just before serving – the essential vessel for wrapping up your fajitas.
- Fresh cilantro: ½ cup, chopped – garnishes with a fresh, herbaceous note to brighten the dish.
Accompaniments
- Sour cream: 1 cup – provides a cool, creamy balance to the spices.
- Guacamole: 1 cup, homemade or store-bought – made from ripe avocados for that creamy avocado goodness.
- Shredded cheese: 1 cup (e.g., Monterey Jack), grated fresh – melts beautifully for added texture.
With these ingredients, we ensure your homemade version captures the authentic essence of Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajitas, making it simple to impress at any gathering.
Equipment Needed
Now that we’ve gathered our fresh ingredients for the Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita Recipe, let’s equip ourselves with the essential tools to prepare this smoky, flavorful Tex-Mex favorite right in our kitchen. Having the right equipment ensures we achieve that perfect char on the beef and veggies while keeping preparation efficient and safe.
To make our beef fajitas, we recommend the following key items. We’ve organized them into categories for clarity:
- Grill or Cast-Iron Skillet: Our go-to for searing the beef skirt steak to lock in those bold, juicy flavors. If using a grill, opt for one that reaches high heat (around 450°F) for authentic char marks.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife: Essential for slicing onions, bell peppers, and the steak into even strips. We always emphasize a high-quality knife to make prep work quick and precise.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy, non-slip board—preferably wood or plastic—to handle all our chopping without damaging surfaces.
- Large Mixing Bowl: Perfect for whisking together the marinade with lime juice, garlic, and spices, ensuring every piece of beef absorbs maximum flavor.
- Tongs or Spatula: We rely on sturdy tongs for flipping the sizzling meat and veggies, preventing burns and maintaining even cooking.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate tools for measuring out olive oil, cumin, and chili powder to replicate the restaurant-quality taste of Lupe Tortilla beef fajitas.
- Serving Platter or Tortilla Warmer: To present our finished dish with warm tortillas, allowing the fresh aromas of the fajitas to shine when serving family or guests.
By using this equipment, we can effortlessly transition from marinating to grilling, making our Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita Recipe a seamless home-cooking adventure.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential equipment, let’s walk through the steps to prepare our flavorful Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita Recipe at home. We’ll ensure each phase delivers the bold, smoky flavors that make this Tex-Mex favorite irresistible.
Prep
Before we fire up the grill, we’ll focus on marinating the beef and prepping the vegetables to lock in those vibrant, tangy flavors. Start by combining the marinade in a large mixing bowl: add 2 pounds of beef skirt steak (sliced into thin strips for even cooking), 1/4 cup fresh lime juice, 3 cloves of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon chili powder, and 1 teaspoon cumin. We recommend letting the beef marinate for at least 30 minutes—or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator—to infuse it with a zesty, aromatic depth that enhances its tender texture.
Next, prepare the vegetables on a sturdy cutting board using a sharp chef’s knife: slice 2 bell peppers (one red and one green for color contrast) and 1 large onion into thin strips. This step ensures they cook quickly and develop a slightly charred, sweet edge that complements the beef’s spiciness. Once prepped, set aside the vegetables and beef separately to maintain our recipe’s signature fresh, crisp appeal.
Cook
With everything prepped, we’ll now sear the ingredients to achieve that smoky, caramelized perfection that defines our Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita Recipe. Heat a grill or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat—aim for 400°F for optimal searing—and lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking.
Using tongs, add the marinated beef strips to the hot surface and cook for 3-5 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F for medium-rare, creating a juicy, flavorful bite with a beautiful sear. In a separate area of the grill or skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and onions; cook for 4-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and develop a lightly charred, aromatic fragrance. For cooking times and temperatures, refer to the table below to ensure accuracy and food safety:
| Step | Ingredient | Cook Time (minutes) | Target Temperature (°F) | Key Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sear Beef | Beef strips | 3-5 per side | 145 (medium-rare) | Juicy, tender texture |
| Cook Veggies | Bell peppers & onions | 4-6 | N/A | Charred, softened veggies |
This method guarantees the beef’s bold spices meld with the vegetables’ natural sweetness for an irresistibly hearty and fresh taste.
Assemble
Finally, we’ll bring it all together to create a visually appealing and delicious platter of our Lupe Tortilla Beef Fajita Recipe. Warm 8-10 flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for 20-30 seconds until they’re soft and pliable, ready to embrace the fillings.
On a serving platter, layer the cooked beef and vegetables, then add classic accompaniments like sour cream, guacamole, and shredded cheese for a cool, creamy contrast to the hot, spicy elements. Encourage everyone to build their own fajitas by filling tortillas with the mixture—the combination of warm, smoky beef and crisp veggies creates an explosion of Tex-Mex flavors that’s perfect for any gathering.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Lupe Tortilla beef fajita recipe even more convenient for busy schedules, we recommend preparing certain components in advance. This approach allows the flavors to develop fully while saving time on the day of serving. By marinating the beef and prepping vegetables ahead, you can achieve that signature bold, smoky taste without last-minute rushes.
Marinating the Beef in Advance
We suggest marinating the beef skirt steak up to 24 hours before cooking to enhance its tender, juicy texture and infuse it with spicy, zesty notes from the lime juice, garlic, and spices. Here’s how:
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of beef skirt steak with ¼ cup fresh lime juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon cumin, and 1 teaspoon chili powder. Toss thoroughly to coat the meat evenly.
- Step 2: Transfer the marinated beef to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Seal it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This step not only tenderizes the meat but also amplifies the authentic Tex-Mex flavors of our Lupe Tortilla beef fajitas.
- Step 3: If preparing further in advance (up to 48 hours), stir the marinade once midway to ensure even distribution, but avoid exceeding this time to prevent the acid from breaking down the meat too much.
Prepping Vegetables and Accompaniments
Slicing and storing vegetables ahead keeps them fresh and ready for a quick sear, preserving their crisp, caramelized appeal when you cook.
- Step 1: Wash and slice 2 bell peppers and 1 large onion into thin strips. Place them in a separate airtight container, drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and cumin for added flavor.
- Step 2: Refrigerate the prepped vegetables for up to 24 hours. This allows the spices to meld, enhancing the smoky, vibrant taste that complements the beef in our Lupe Tortilla beef fajitas.
- Step 3: For accompaniments, prepare guacamole or shred cheese in advance. Mash 2 ripe avocados with lime juice and salt, then store in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface to prevent browning. Shred 1 cup of cheese and keep it refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage ensures your make-ahead components retain their quality, delivering that explosion of Tex-Mex flavors we love in Lupe Tortilla beef fajitas.
| Component | Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marinated Beef | Airtight container in fridge | Up to 24 hours | Remove from fridge 30 minutes before cooking; sear on a hot grill or skillet for 3-5 minutes per side. |
| Prepped Vegetables | Airtight container in fridge | Up to 24 hours | Sauté in a hot skillet for 4-6 minutes until tender-crisp; avoid overcrowding to maintain caramelized edges. |
| Accompaniments | Airtight containers in fridge | Up to 2 days | Serve cold or at room temperature; stir guacamole before using to refresh its creamy texture. |
By following these steps, we ensure your Lupe Tortilla beef fajitas remain fresh and flavorful, making it easy to impress at any gathering.
Conclusion
We’ve shared how to bring Lupe Tortilla’s beef fajitas into your kitchen
with ease and flair. It’s a recipe that delivers bold flavors and fun vibes
every time you fire up the grill.
Now it’s your turn to whip up this Tex-Mex favorite
and make it a staple at your table. We’re confident you’ll love
the fresh twist it adds to your meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Lupe Tortilla’s beef fajitas?
Lupe Tortilla’s beef fajitas are a classic Tex-Mex dish featuring marinated beef strips, like skirt steak, grilled with fresh vegetables such as bell peppers and onions. Originating from Mexican and Texas influences, they offer bold, smoky flavors served in warm tortillas with toppings like sour cream and guacamole, making them perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
What ingredients are needed for beef fajitas?
Key ingredients include beef skirt steak, fresh lime juice, garlic, olive oil, spices like cumin and chili powder, bell peppers, onions, and accompaniments such as sour cream, guacamole, and shredded cheese. Use high-quality, fresh components for the best smoky, bold flavors in this Tex-Mex favorite.
What equipment is required to make beef fajitas?
Essential tools include a grill or cast-iron skillet for searing, a sharp chef’s knife and cutting board for prep, a large mixing bowl for marinating, tongs or a spatula for flipping, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, and a serving platter or tortilla warmer for presentation to ensure a successful home cooking experience.
How do I make beef fajitas at home?
Start by marinating beef skirt steak with lime juice, garlic, and spices for at least 30 minutes. Prep vegetables like bell peppers and onions, then sear everything on a hot grill or skillet until caramelized. Assemble with warm tortillas and toppings like guacamole for a flavorful, customizable meal that’s ideal for any occasion.
Can I prepare beef fajitas in advance?
Yes, marinate the beef up to 24 hours ahead for enhanced flavor and tenderness, and prep vegetables a few hours in advance to keep them fresh. Store marinated beef and sliced veggies in the fridge, then cook when ready. This makes it easy to impress at gatherings without last-minute hassle.
How should I store and reheat beef fajitas?
Store cooked beef and vegetables in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to restore crispiness, or microwave briefly while covering to retain moisture. Always reheat to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and optimal flavor.