This build-your-own Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, these burrito bowls allow everyone to customize their dish with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. The combination of grilled steak, fresh toppings, and zesty cilantro lime rice makes this dish truly stand out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor-packed: Each bite is bursting with the savory taste of Mexicali seasoned steak and fresh ingredients.
- Customizable: Build your own bowl with your favorite toppings for a meal tailored to your taste.
- Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cook time of just 20 minutes, you can have dinner on the table in no time.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh veggies, this dish is a nutritious choice for any meal.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make extra servings to enjoy throughout the week or share with friends.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare your Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother. Here’s what you’ll need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the steak and vegetables.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping all your ingredients without making a mess.
- Chef’s knife: A versatile tool that allows you to slice through meat and chop vegetables effortlessly.
Ingredients
For the Base
- cilantro lime rice
- corn salsa (or charred corn)
- sautéed onions and peppers
For Toppings
- guacamole
- cheese (like cotija, oaxaca, monterrey jack or pepper jack)
- pico de gallo
- shredded lettuce
- pickled red onions (or sliced raw red onions)
- pickled jalapeños (or sliced raw jalapeños)
For Sauce
- cilantro ranch (or use sour cream or plain nonfat Greek yogurt)
- cilantro leaves (finely chopped)
For the Steak
- 2 tablespoons Mexicali seasoning
- 1 large lime (juiced)
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 2 pounds steak (use sirloin, skirt or flank steak)
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Course: Mains & Entrees
Cuisine: Mexican, Tex Mex
Nutrition Facts: Calories: 452 kcal, Carbs: 26 g, Protein: 33 g, Fat: 24 g, Saturated Fat: 10 g, Cholesterol: 92 mg, Sodium: 81 mg, Fiber: 2 g, Sugar: 0.3 g
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Mexicali seasoning with lime juice and avocado oil to create a marinade.
- Add the steak to the marinade and let it sit for about 10 minutes.
Step 2: Grill the Steak
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat.
- Place the marinated steak on the grill and cook for about 5 minutes on each side or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Remove from heat and let it rest before slicing.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
- While the steak is resting, add sliced onions and peppers to the grill or a separate pan.
- Sauté until they are caramelized and tender.
Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls
- Start by adding a layer of cilantro lime rice as the base in each bowl.
- Top with sliced grilled steak, sautéed onions and peppers.
- Add your choice of toppings such as guacamole, pico de gallo, cheese, shredded lettuce, pickled red onions, pickled jalapeños, and cilantro ranch.
Enjoy crafting your perfect Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls!
How to Serve Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls
Serving your Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls can be a fun and creative experience. Everyone can customize their bowl to suit their taste, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Build-Your-Own Bowl
- Encourage guests to create their own unique burrito bowls, selecting from various toppings and bases.
Family-Style Platter
- Arrange all ingredients on a large platter, allowing everyone to serve themselves. This adds an interactive element to your meal.
Meal Prep Containers
- For busy weekdays, prepare individual servings in meal prep containers. Each bowl can be packed with rice, steak, and toppings for a quick lunch option.
On-the-Go Option
- Use tortillas to wrap the bowl ingredients for a portable version of your Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls. Ideal for picnics or road trips!
How to Perfect Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls
To ensure your Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls are full of flavor and texture, follow these helpful tips.
- Marinate the Steak: Allow the steak to marinate for at least an hour for enhanced flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs bring vibrancy and taste to your burrito bowls.
- Don’t Overcook the Steak: Aim for medium-rare to retain juiciness and tenderness in the meat.
- Experiment with Toppings: Try different cheeses or salsas to mix up the flavors in your bowls.
- Customize Your Rice: Add spices or herbs to your cilantro lime rice for an extra kick.
Best Side Dishes for Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls
Pairing side dishes with your Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls can elevate the meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement the flavors perfectly.
- Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob slathered with mayo, cheese, and chili powder.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add a hearty element that pairs well with steak.
- Guacamole and Chips: Fresh guacamole served with tortilla chips makes a great appetizer.
- Chips & Salsa: A classic starter that provides crunch and zest before the main dish.
- Spanish Rice: Flavored rice cooked with tomatoes and spices offers additional depth.
- Stuffed Jalapeños: Spicy jalapeños filled with cheese create an exciting side option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Building the perfect Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowl can be tricky. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overcooking the Steak: Cooking steak for too long can make it tough and dry. Aim for medium-rare to keep it juicy.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Skipping or skimping on seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Use enough Mexicali seasoning and taste as you go.
- Choosing the Wrong Rice: Not all rice complements a burrito bowl. Opt for cilantro lime rice for the best flavor profile.
- Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Neglecting fresh toppings like pico de gallo or guacamole can dull your dish. Incorporate them for added freshness and texture.
- Not Balancing Textures: A good burrito bowl should have varied textures. Mix crunchy veggies with creamy ingredients for a satisfying bite.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.
- Keep components separate if possible to maintain texture.
Freezing Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls
- Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
- Best consumed within 2–3 months for best quality.
- Portion out servings for easy defrosting.
Reheating Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil, heat until warmed through (about 15–20 minutes).
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1 minute), stirring in between until hot. Use a microwave-safe container.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls:
How can I customize my Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls?
You can customize your burrito bowls by adding different proteins like chicken or shrimp, or swapping out veggies based on your preference.
Can I prepare the steak ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate and cook the steak ahead of time. Just reheat it before serving your bowl for convenience.
What sides pair well with Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls?
Consider serving with tortilla chips, black beans, or a side salad to complement your meal.
How do I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Replace the steak with grilled vegetables or plant-based protein options like tofu or tempeh while keeping the same flavorful toppings.
Final Thoughts
The Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowl is not just delicious but also highly versatile. You can easily mix and match ingredients to suit your taste. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different toppings and sides!
Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls
Indulge in the savory delight of Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls, a versatile dish that allows you to customize every bite. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner gatherings, featuring tender grilled steak marinated in zesty Mexicali seasoning and lime juice, served over a vibrant base of cilantro lime rice. Top your bowl with fresh ingredients like guacamole, pico de gallo, and pickled jalapeños for an explosion of flavor. In just 20 minutes, you can create a meal that’s not only delicious but also healthy and filling, making it an ideal option for meal prep or family-style dining.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- cilantro lime rice
- corn salsa
- guacamole
- cheese (cotija or pepper jack)
- pico de gallo
- shredded lettuce
- pickled red onions
- 2 pounds steak (sirloin or flank)
- 2 tablespoons Mexicali seasoning
- 1 large lime (juiced)
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- sautéed onions and peppers
- cilantro ranch dressing (or use sour cream or plain nonfat Greek yogurt)
- cilantro leaves (finely chopped)
Instructions
- Marinate 2 pounds of steak with 2 tablespoons of Mexicali seasoning, the juice of 1 large lime, and 1 tablespoon of avocado oil for 10 minutes.
- Grill the marinated steak on medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side until done to your liking. Let rest before slicing.
- Sauté sliced onions and peppers until tender.
- In bowls, layer cilantro lime rice, sliced grilled steak, sautéed vegetables, and desired toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Mains & Entrees
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican, Tex Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 452
- Sugar: 0.3g
- Sodium: 81mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 92mg
Keywords: For added flavor, marinate the steak for longer. Use fresh herbs and vegetables for vibrant tastes. Experiment with different toppings to discover your favorite combination.
