Introduction
If you love bold Mexican-inspired flavors but want something fresher (and faster) than takeout, this Steak Burrito Bowl is a total winner. It has everything you love in a burrito—juicy steak, fluffy rice, seasoned beans, fresh toppings—but served in a bowl so you can customize every bite.
It’s hearty, protein-packed, perfect for meal prep, and easy enough for busy weeknights. Once you try it, this bowl might just replace your regular burrito order.
Ingredients (Shopping List)
For the Steak
- 1½ lb flank steak or skirt steak
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1½ tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¾ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
👉 Recommended: A cast iron skillet for best sear (affiliate-ready option via Amazon, ID: atul0c58-20)
For the Rice
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or jasmine rice)
- 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
- Juice of ½ lime
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
Bowl Add-Ins & Toppings
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1 large avocado, sliced
- ½ cup shredded lettuce or romaine
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
Optional Sauces (Highly Recommended 😋)
- sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Salsa or pico de gallo
- Chipotle mayo or cilantro lime dressing
Essential Kitchen Tools & Appliances
- Cast iron skillet or heavy pan
- Medium saucepan with lid
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Tongs
- Aluminum foil (for resting steak)
Preparation Steps (Barney Style 🦖)
- Marinate the steak:
In a bowl, mix olive oil, spices, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Coat the steak well. Let it sit for 20–30 minutes (even 10 minutes helps). - Rinse the rice:
Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear. This keeps it fluffy. - Prep toppings:
Chop veggies, slice avocado, rinse beans, and set everything aside.
This makes assembly super easy later.
Cooking Instructions
Cook the Rice
- Bring water (or broth) and salt to a boil.
- Add rice, stir once, cover, and simmer on low for 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat, fluff with fork, then stir in butter, lime juice, and cilantro.
Cook the Steak
- Heat skillet over high heat until very hot.
- Add steak and cook 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare (adjust for thickness).
- Remove steak, tent with foil, and rest 5–10 minutes.
- Slice thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
🔥 Secret tip: Don’t move the steak while it sears—this creates that restaurant-style crust.
Warm the Beans & Corn
- Heat beans and corn together in a small pan with a pinch of salt and cumin for 3–4 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Build your bowl like this:
- Rice base
- Sliced steak
- Black beans & corn
- Lettuce, tomatoes, onion
- Avocado & cheese
- Finish with sauce, lime wedge, and cilantro
👉 Serve with tortilla chips, guacamole, or a simple cucumber salad on the side.
Additional Tips & Variations
- Meal prep friendly: Store components separately for up to 4 days
- Healthier swap: Use brown rice or cauliflower rice
- Low-carb: Skip rice, double the veggies
- Spicy: Add jalapeños or hot sauce
- Dairy-free: Skip cheese, add extra avocado
Nutrition Details (Per Serving – Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~620 kcal |
| Protein | ~42 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~48 g |
| Fat | ~28 g |
| Fiber | ~9 g |
| Sugar | ~5 g |
Values may vary based on toppings and portion size.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes! Sirloin or ribeye work great too.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store steak, rice, and toppings separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely—perfect for weekly meal prep.
Q: Is this freezer-friendly?
The steak and rice freeze well. Avoid freezing avocado and lettuce.
Wrap-Up
This Steak Burrito Bowl proves that comfort food can be fresh, balanced, and incredibly satisfying. It’s bold like your favorite restaurant bowl, but made right at home with simple ingredients and full control over flavor.
Fun fact 🌮: Burrito bowls became popular as a lighter, fork-friendly way to enjoy burritos—no tortilla required, but all the flavor still there.
