Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls

This build-your-own Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls recipe is perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a festive gathering with friends. Packed with vibrant flavors and textures, it offers a customizable experience that everyone will love. The combination of grilled Mexicali seasoned steak and fresh toppings makes these burrito bowls stand out. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and delightful to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: Each bite is filled with the savory taste of Mexicali seasoned steak complemented by fresh ingredients.
• Customizable Options: You can mix and match toppings based on your preferences or what you have at home.
• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy nights.
• Health-Conscious Meal: Packed with protein and fresh veggies, these bowls make for a nutritious dinner option.
• Great for Gatherings: Create a fun build-your-own burrito bowl bar for parties or family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

For this recipe, you’ll need some essential tools that make the cooking process seamless. Having the right equipment ensures everything is cooked evenly and efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Serving bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: This tool allows you to achieve the perfect sear on your steak while enhancing its flavor.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes slicing through the steak and vegetables much easier and safer.
• Mixing bowl: Use this for combining ingredients like guacamole or pico de gallo before serving.

Ingredients

For the Base

• cilantro lime rice
• corn salsa (or charred corn)
• sautéed onions and peppers
• guacamole

Toppings

• 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)

Dressing

• cilantro ranch (or use sour cream or plain nonfat greek yogurt)

Seasoning & Protein

• cilantro leaves (finely chopped)
• 2 tablespoons Mexicali seasoning
• 1 large lime (juiced)
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• 2 pounds steak (use sirloin, skirt or flank steak)

How to Make Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the Mexicali seasoning, lime juice, and avocado oil.
2. Rub this mixture all over the steak.
3. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Place the marinated steak on the grill.
3. Cook for 4–5 minutes on each side for medium doneness.
4. Remove from heat and let rest before slicing into thin strips.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

1. In a separate pan, add a bit of oil over medium heat.
2. Add sliced onions and peppers; sauté until caramelized—about 5–7 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble Your Burrito Bowls

1. Start with a base of cilantro lime rice in each serving bowl.
2. Top with grilled steak slices, sautéed onions, peppers, corn salsa, guacamole, cheese, pico de gallo, shredded lettuce, pickled red onions, pickled jalapeños, and cilantro ranch dressing as desired.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls, packed with flavor!

How to Serve Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls

Serving Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls is all about customization and presentation. These bowls allow everyone to create their perfect meal, making them ideal for gatherings or a family dinner.

Create Your Own Bowl

• Choose your base: Start with cilantro lime rice or lettuce for a lighter option.
• Layer on the protein: Add grilled steak seasoned with Mexicali spices for a robust flavor.
• Add some crunch: Include charred corn or pickled jalapeños for an extra kick.

Garnish and Finish

• Top with guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds richness and balances the flavors.
• Sprinkle cheese: Cotija or Monterey Jack cheese enhances the bowl with creaminess.
• Drizzle dressing: A homemade cilantro ranch sauce elevates each bite with freshness.

Personal Touches

• Include fresh herbs: Chopped cilantro adds brightness to the dish.
• Customize heat levels: Adjust spice by adding more jalapeños or other hot sauces as desired.

How to Perfect Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls

To achieve the best results with your Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Marinate the steak: Allowing the steak to marinate for at least 30 minutes will infuse it with deeper flavors.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh produce ensures vibrant flavors and textures in your burrito bowl.
• Sear the steak properly: Get a good sear on both sides of the steak for that delicious crust while keeping it juicy inside.
• Customize toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings like black beans or avocado slices based on your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls

Pairing side dishes with your Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob topped with mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice makes a delightful companion.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and balance well with the flavors of the burrito bowl.
3. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa add a fun texture contrast to your meal.
4. Guacamole Salad: A refreshing salad of avocados, tomatoes, onions, and lime juice complements the richness of the burrito bowl.
5. Spanish Rice: Flavorful Spanish rice infused with tomatoes and spices pairs perfectly with steak.
6. Cilantro Lime Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, cilantro, and lime juice offers a zesty crunch that brightens up every bite.
7. Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers add color and nutrition to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Steak: Ensure you don’t overcook the steak, as it can become tough. Use a meat thermometer and aim for medium-rare for the best flavor and tenderness.

• Ignoring Seasoning: Skipping the seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to generously coat your steak with Mexicali seasoning before cooking for that authentic taste.

• Not Letting Ingredients Cool: If you add hot ingredients directly into your burrito bowl, they can wilt the fresh toppings. Allow cooked items like onions and peppers to cool slightly before assembling.

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Opting for cheap or low-quality ingredients can diminish your dish’s overall quality. Choose fresh produce and good-quality cheese to elevate your bowl.

• Neglecting Customization: Sticking strictly to the recipe may not suit everyone’s tastes. Feel free to swap out ingredients or add personal favorites to make it your own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls

• Freeze in individual portions for easy meals later.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for quality preservation.

Reheating Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on high in 1-minute intervals until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls:

What is included in Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls?

Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls typically include cilantro lime rice, grilled steak, sautéed peppers and onions, guacamole, cheese, pico de gallo, corn salsa, lettuce, and cilantro ranch dressing.

Can I customize my Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowl?

Yes! You can easily customize your bowl by adding or swapping ingredients like different types of beans, proteins, or toppings according to your preferences.

How do I make the cilantro ranch dressing?

To make cilantro ranch dressing, combine plain Greek yogurt with chopped cilantro, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.

What type of steak is best for these burrito bowls?

Sirloin, skirt steak, or flank steak are excellent choices for their flavor and tenderness when grilled or seared.

Final Thoughts

These Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls are not only delicious but also highly versatile. You can mix and match ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you enjoy them spicy with jalapeños or mild with extra cheese, they are sure to impress family and friends alike!