Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls
This Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or celebrating with friends, these customizable burrito bowls are sure to impress. With layers of juicy steak, fresh toppings, and zesty cilantro lime rice, each bite offers a burst of flavor that stands out. Plus, you can easily adapt the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: Every ingredient works together to create a delicious and satisfying meal.
- Customizable: Tailor your burrito bowl with your favorite toppings and sides for endless variety.
- Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cook time of just 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh veggies, this meal is both nutritious and filling.
- Great for Meal Prep: Prepare components in advance for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation
To make your Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls, you will need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process and enhance the final dish.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the steak and vegetables.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for all your toppings, making preparation easier.
- Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients like guacamole or pico de gallo without making a mess.
Ingredients
For these flavorful Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls, gather the following ingredients:
For the Base
- cilantro lime rice
- corn salsa (or charred corn)
- sautéed onions and peppers
For the 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 the Dressing
- cilantro ranch (or use sour cream or plain nonfat Greek yogurt)
- cilantro leaves (finely chopped)
For the Steak Marinade
- 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 Marinade
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Mexicali seasoning, lime juice, and avocado oil.
- Add the steak to the marinade and let it sit for at least 10 minutes to soak up the flavors.
Step 2: Cook the Steak
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Grill the marinated steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on thickness.
- Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove from heat and allow it to rest before slicing.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Peppers
- In a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil if needed.
- Add sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet.
- Sauté until they are caramelized and tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Assemble Your Burrito Bowls
- Start with a base of cilantro lime rice in each bowl.
- Layer on grilled steak slices followed by sautéed onions and peppers.
- Top with guacamole, cheese, pico de gallo, shredded lettuce, pickled red onions, pickled jalapeños, and cilantro ranch.
Enjoy your delicious Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls!
How to Serve Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls
Serving Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls is all about customizing and layering flavors. Whether you’re hosting a fiesta or enjoying a casual dinner, these bowls can be tailored to everyone’s liking.
Build Your Own Bowl
- Start with a base of cilantro lime rice for a refreshing flavor.
- Layer grilled Mexicali seasoned steak for protein-packed goodness.
- Add your favorite toppings like guacamole and pico de gallo for burst of freshness.
Family Style Serving
- Set up a buffet-style table with all the ingredients laid out.
- Let everyone create their own burrito bowl masterpiece, choosing from charred corn, sautéed onions, and peppers.
- This interactive dining experience is perfect for gatherings.
Meal Prep Option
- Prepare individual servings in meal prep containers.
- Pack the steak, rice, and toppings separately to keep everything fresh.
- This makes for quick lunches throughout the week.
Leftover Remix
- Transform leftovers into quesadillas or tacos.
- Use the steak and toppings to make delicious wraps for an easy next-day meal.
How to Perfect Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls
Creating the ideal Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowl takes practice. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.
- Choose quality meat: Select fresh sirloin, skirt, or flank steak for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Marinate the steak: Allow it to marinate in Mexicali seasoning and lime juice for at least 20 minutes before grilling.
- Don’t skip the toppings: Fresh ingredients like pico de gallo and guacamole elevate your bowl significantly.
- Use a hot grill: Searing the steak on high heat gives it a nice char while keeping it juicy inside.
- Keep rice fluffy: Rinse your rice before cooking to remove excess starch for perfect fluffiness.
Best Side Dishes for Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls
Pairing side dishes with your Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, and chili powder adds great flavor.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide extra protein and richness that complements the flavors of the bowl.
- Guacamole Salad: A fresh salad with avocados, tomatoes, lime, and cilantro enhances the overall taste profile.
- Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with spicy salsa make for a classic pairing with any Mexican dish.
- Elote Dip: A creamy dip made from corn, cheese, and spices served warm with tortilla chips is always a hit.
- Cilantro Lime Quinoa: A healthy alternative to rice that keeps with the Mexican flavors while adding extra nutrients.
- Spicy Black Beans: Seasoned black beans can add depth and flavor while being another excellent source of protein.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them:
- Using the wrong steak cut: Choosing a tough cut can ruin your dish. Stick to sirloin, skirt, or flank steak for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Overcooking the steak: Cooking your steak too long can lead to dryness. Aim for medium-rare to keep it juicy and flavorful.
- Neglecting seasoning: Skipping the Mexicali seasoning can leave your bowl bland. Don’t forget to season generously for that authentic taste.
- Forgetting about toppings: A burrito bowl is all about layers. Ensure you include all toppings like guacamole and pico de gallo for maximum flavor.
- Not allowing ingredients to rest: Serving immediately can result in heat loss and sogginess. Let the cooked ingredients sit briefly before assembling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep steak and toppings separate to maintain freshness.
Freezing Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls
- Place cooked steak in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- Freeze rice and toppings separately for best quality.
Reheating Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls?
Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls are a customizable dish featuring seasoned grilled steak served over cilantro lime rice with various toppings like guacamole, cheese, and salsa.
Can I customize my Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowl?
Absolutely! You can add or substitute any of your favorite ingredients such as beans, different types of cheese, or additional vegetables.
How do I store leftover Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for later enjoyment.
What type of steak works best for this recipe?
Sirloin, skirt, or flank steak are ideal cuts due to their tenderness and flavor when marinated with Mexicali seasoning.
Final Thoughts
These Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls offer an exciting blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love. They’re versatile too—feel free to mix and match toppings based on your preferences. Enjoy customizing this delicious meal!

Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Mexicali Steak Burrito Bowls are a vibrant and satisfying dish that brings the flavors of Mexico to your table. This recipe features marinated grilled steak served over a bed of zesty cilantro lime rice, topped with fresh ingredients like guacamole, pico de gallo, and sautéed peppers. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, these customizable bowls allow you to mix and match toppings according to your taste preferences. Each bite offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds steak (sirloin, skirt, or flank)
- 2 tablespoons Mexicali seasoning
- Juice of 1 large lime
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- Cilantro lime rice
- Guacamole
- Pico de gallo
- Sautéed onions and peppers
- Cheese (cotija, Oaxaca, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Mexicali seasoning, lime juice, and avocado oil. Add steak and marinate for at least 10 minutes.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated steak for 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked to your liking. Let it rest before slicing.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté sliced onions and bell peppers until caramelized (about 5-7 minutes).
- Assemble your burrito bowls by layering cilantro lime rice, grilled steak slices, sautéed veggies, and desired toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 500g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Ensure you choose quality cuts of meat for tenderness. Marinating longer enhances flavor; aim for at least 20 minutes if possible. Customize toppings with beans or different cheeses for additional flavor.