Get ready to fire up the flavor with these Chili Lime Steak Fajita Quesadillas—a bold, zesty twist on two crowd favorites! Packed with tender steak, sizzling peppers, and a punch of chili-lime seasoning, this easy recipe brings the sizzle of fajitas and the melty goodness of quesadillas together in one irresistible bite. Perfect for game day, weeknight dinners, or your next cookout!

Ingredients

For the Chili Lime Steak Marinade:

• 1 lb flank steak or skirt steak
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
• 1 tbsp lime zest
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 2 tsp ancho chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp cumin
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the Fajita Veggies:

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow onion, sliced
• 2 Fresno peppers, chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp garlic powder

For the Quesadillas:

• 4 large flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar, Monterey Jack)
• 1 tbsp butter (for crisping tortillas)

Optional Toppings:

• Sour cream
• Guacamole
• Salsa
• Fresh cilantro

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, and all the spices. Place the steak in a shallow dish or zip-top bag, then pour the marinade over it. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Cook the Steak

Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the steak for 4-5 minutes per side (for medium-rare) or longer for desired doneness. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice it thinly against the grain.

Step 3: Sauté the Fajita Veggies

In the same pan, add 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add bell peppers and onions, season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized.

Step 4: Assemble the Chili Lime Steak Quesadilla

Heat a clean skillet over medium heat and melt a little butter. Place a tortilla in the skillet, then layer on cheese, steak slices, and fajita veggies. Top with another sprinkle of cheese and place a second tortilla on top. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, pressing lightly, until golden and crispy.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Slice into quarters and serve with your favorite toppings like guacamole, sour cream, or salsa. Enjoy these cheesy, crispy, flavor-packed quesadillas with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh salad!