Slow Cooker Beef Fajitas (gluten-free) Recipe

There’s something magical about coming home to the rich aroma of slow-cooked beef, perfectly spiced and ready to be wrapped in a warm tortilla. These slow cooker beef fajitas are not only ridiculously easy to make, but they’re also naturally gluten-free, packed with flavor, and perfect for a fuss-free dinner. Whether you’re feeding a family or just meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is a game-changer.

Slow Cooker Beef Fajitas (gluten-free) Recipe

A cozy memory of fajita nights

Growing up, fajita night was always a favorite in our house. My mom would toss everything in the slow cooker in the morning, and by dinner, the entire house smelled like a Tex-Mex dream. We’d all gather around, assembling our fajitas with extra cheese, guacamole, and a squeeze of lime. The slow-cooked beef was always so tender it practically melted into the tortillas. I still remember my dad sneaking extra bites straight from the pot! Now, every time I make this recipe, I’m reminded of those cozy evenings, laughter around the dinner table, and the joy of simple, delicious food.

Where do fajitas come from?

Fajitas have their roots in Tex-Mex cuisine, with origins tracing back to ranch workers in Texas who would grill marinated beef over an open flame. Traditionally, fajitas were made using skirt steak, but over time, different cuts of beef and cooking methods have emerged. The slow cooker method isn’t traditional, but it’s a fantastic way to get that tender, flavor-packed beef without standing over a hot stove. Plus, the longer cooking time allows the spices to really seep into the meat, making every bite absolutely delicious.

Let’s talk ingredients: fresh, flavorful, and flexible

The beauty of this recipe is that it uses simple ingredients, but each one plays a key role in creating that bold fajita flavor.

  • Beef – I use 1.2 kg of stir-fry beef, which cooks down beautifully in the slow cooker. If you prefer, you can use flank steak or skirt steak, thinly sliced. If you’re in a pinch, chicken or even portobello mushrooms make great substitutes.
  • Bell peppers – These add sweetness and crunch. Any color works, but I love using a mix of red and yellow for a pop of color.
  • Carrot – Julienne-cut carrots might seem unusual in fajitas, but trust me, they add a subtle sweetness and extra texture. If you don’t have carrots, zucchini or even thinly sliced cabbage can work.
  • Sweet onion (optional) – Adds depth and a slight caramelized sweetness as it cooks. If you don’t have it, regular onions or even shallots will do.
  • Tomato sauce and broth – These create a rich, saucy base that helps keep the meat juicy. If you like a bit of tang, swap in some crushed tomatoes.
  • Fajita seasoning – A blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and garlic powder. If you like it spicier, throw in some cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
Slow Cooker Beef Fajitas (gluten-free) Recipe

The must-have kitchen tools

You don’t need much for this recipe, but a few key tools make the process easier.

  • Slow cooker – The star of the show! A 6-quart slow cooker works well for this recipe, but any size will do as long as it fits everything.
  • Sharp knife – For slicing the beef and veggies. A dull knife makes prep work frustrating, so keep yours sharp.
  • Cutting board – Preferably one with a groove to catch any juices while slicing the beef.
  • Tongs or a slotted spoon – Helpful for serving the fajitas without too much liquid.

Step-by-step: the easiest way to make these fajitas

Step 1: Prep the veggies

Start by slicing your bell peppers into thin strips and julienning the carrot. If you’re using the sweet onion, slice it thinly. This step takes just a few minutes but makes a big difference in how everything cooks together.

Step 2: Layer it all in the slow cooker

Place the beef at the bottom of your slow cooker, followed by the sliced veggies. This ensures the meat absorbs all the delicious juices while cooking.

Step 3: Add the liquid magic

Pour the tomato sauce and broth over the beef and vegetables. These liquids keep everything moist and help create a rich, flavorful base.

Step 4: Season generously

In a small bowl, mix the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and garlic powder. Sprinkle this seasoning mix evenly over everything in the slow cooker. Give everything a quick stir to make sure the flavors are well distributed.

Step 5: Let the slow cooker do its thing

Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for about 8 hours. The long, slow cooking process allows the beef to become incredibly tender and soak up all the delicious spices. If you’re short on time, you can set it to high for 4 hours, but low and slow is always best.

Slow Cooker Beef Fajitas (gluten-free) Recipe

Customizing your fajitas: fun variations to try

  • Make it spicy – Add some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
  • Go low-carb – Skip the tortillas and serve these fajitas in lettuce wraps or over cauliflower rice.
  • Make it vegan – Replace the beef with portobello mushrooms and swap the broth for vegetable broth.
  • Try a different protein – Chicken, shrimp, or even tofu can work in place of beef. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  • Add some smokiness – A little smoked paprika or chipotle powder adds a fantastic depth of flavor.

How to serve and make them look amazing

Serve these beef fajitas straight from the slow cooker with warm corn or gluten-free tortillas. Top with fresh lime juice, avocado slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro. For a complete meal, pair with a side of Mexican rice, black beans, or a simple avocado salad.

The best drinks to pair with fajitas

  • Margaritas – A classic pairing! Go for a classic lime margarita or a fruity mango version.
  • Cold beer – A light Mexican beer like Corona or Modelo complements the spices perfectly.
  • Sparkling water with lime – A refreshing non-alcoholic option that still enhances the flavors.

Storing and reheating leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for a quick meal. If freezing, store in portioned freezer bags for up to 3 months.

Adjusting for different serving sizes

This recipe makes about 6 servings, but it’s easy to scale up or down. Just adjust the ingredient amounts accordingly, but keep the cooking time the same to ensure the beef stays tender.

Common issues and how to fix them

  • Beef too dry? Add a splash of broth or tomato sauce while reheating.
  • Too much liquid? Use a slotted spoon to serve or simmer on the stove to reduce.
  • Not enough spice? Add more chili powder or a dash of hot sauce before serving.

Give it a try!

These slow cooker beef fajitas are incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and completely gluten-free. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, they’re a fantastic way to enjoy a classic Tex-Mex favorite with minimal effort. Let me know how yours turn out and what fun variations you try!

Slow Cooker Beef Fajitas (gluten-free) Recipe

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen beef?
Yes, but thaw it first for even cooking.

2. What’s the best tortilla to use?
Corn tortillas keep it gluten-free, but any type works!

3. Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Cook on high pressure for 25 minutes, then do a natural release.

4. Do I have to use tomato sauce?
No, you can substitute with crushed tomatoes or salsa.

5. How can I make this ahead of time?
Prep all the ingredients and store them in the fridge overnight. Dump everything into the slow cooker in the morning!

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Slow Cooker Beef Fajitas (gluten-free) Recipe

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 These slow cooker beef fajitas are juicy, flavorful, and gluten-free! A simple, fuss-free meal perfect for any night.

  • Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.2 kg Stir fry beef
  • 2 Bell peppers sliced
  • 1 Carrot jullienned
  • ½ Sweet onion optional
  • 200 mL Tomato sauce
  • ¼ cup Broth
  • 1 tbs Chili powder
  • 1.5 tbs Cumin
  • ½ teaspoon Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 2 teaspoon Garlic powder

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the veggies

Start by slicing your bell peppers into thin strips and julienning the carrot. If you’re using the sweet onion, slice it thinly. This step takes just a few minutes but makes a big difference in how everything cooks together.

Step 2: Layer it all in the slow cooker

Place the beef at the bottom of your slow cooker, followed by the sliced veggies. This ensures the meat absorbs all the delicious juices while cooking.

Step 3: Add the liquid magic

Pour the tomato sauce and broth over the beef and vegetables. These liquids keep everything moist and help create a rich, flavorful base.

Step 4: Season generously

In a small bowl, mix the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and garlic powder. Sprinkle this seasoning mix evenly over everything in the slow cooker. Give everything a quick stir to make sure the flavors are well distributed.

Step 5: Let the slow cooker do its thing

Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for about 8 hours. The long, slow cooking process allows the beef to become incredibly tender and soak up all the delicious spices. If you’re short on time, you can set it to high for 4 hours, but low and slow is always best.

Notes

How to serve and make them look amazing

Serve these beef fajitas straight from the slow cooker with warm corn or gluten-free tortillas. Top with fresh lime juice, avocado slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro. For a complete meal, pair with a side of Mexican rice, black beans, or a simple avocado salad.

  • Author: Soraya
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 hours
  • Category: dinner

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