The California Burrito is a hearty and indulgent meal that brings together the best of Mexican cuisine in one delicious package. With layers of juicy carne asada, crispy French fries, creamy guacamole, and melted cheese, this burrito is a flavor-packed masterpiece.
Whether you’re enjoying it for a casual dinner or a fun weekend treat, the California Burrito is sure to satisfy your cravings for something savory, hearty, and comforting. You can easily customize the fillings to suit your preferences, making it the perfect meal for anyone looking to enjoy a bold, satisfying dish.
Full Recipe:
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1 lb carne asada (grilled steak)
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1 large flour tortilla
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1 cup French fries (fried or baked)
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1/2 cup guacamole
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1/2 cup sour cream
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1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup pico de gallo (or fresh salsa)
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1 tablespoon lime juice
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat.
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Season the carne asada with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lime juice, then grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the steak. Once cooked, allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
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While the carne asada is grilling, prepare the French fries. You can either fry them or bake them according to your preference.
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Warm the flour tortilla in a pan for 1-2 minutes on each side until soft and pliable.
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Once the carne asada and fries are ready, place the tortilla on a clean surface. Layer the fries, carne asada, guacamole, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and pico de gallo on top.
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Carefully roll the tortilla around the filling, folding in the sides to close it up.
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If you want a crispy exterior, heat a pan with a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat and toast the burrito for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
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Slice and serve with extra guacamole or salsa on the side.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 700 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
Marinating the Steak for Maximum Flavor
One of the secrets to making an exceptional California burrito is marinating the carne asada. Using lime juice, garlic, cumin, and black pepper allows the steak to absorb deep, vibrant flavors that enhance the taste of the entire burrito. This marinade ensures that the steak is tender, juicy, and full of flavor, providing a perfect base for the other ingredients. Marinating for at least an hour gives the steak enough time to soak in the flavors, but if you have more time, marinating it overnight can intensify the taste.
Grilling the steak over high heat is another important step. You want the steak to be seared on the outside while remaining juicy and tender on the inside. By grilling on high heat and then letting the steak rest for a few minutes, you allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is full of flavor. Slicing the steak thinly against the grain also helps maintain its tenderness.
Preparing the Fries for a Crispy Texture
The fries in a California burrito are not just any fries; they need to be crispy and seasoned to perfection. You can either deep-fry them, bake them, or even air fry them depending on your preference and the tools available. The key is to get them crispy and golden so they add a satisfying crunch to every bite. Once the fries are cooked, seasoning them immediately with salt, pepper, or any seasoning of your choice ensures they are flavorful and ready to be added to the burrito.
Assembling the Perfect California Burrito
Once all the ingredients are ready, the next step is to assemble the burritos. Warm the flour tortillas so they are soft and pliable, making it easier to roll the burrito tightly. Begin layering the ingredients in a strategic order to ensure every bite has a bit of everything. Start with the steak slices, then add the crispy fries, shredded cheddar cheese, pico de gallo, and guacamole. For extra creaminess, add a dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema. Optionally, sprinkle some fresh cilantro for an added burst of flavor.
After layering the fillings, fold the sides of the tortilla in and roll it tightly to close. The trick is to roll the burrito tightly so that all the fillings are packed together. For added texture, you can grill the burrito in a skillet seam-side down until golden and crispy on the outside. This step not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that the burrito stays intact when you bite into it.
Customizing Your California Burrito
While the traditional California burrito is made with carne asada, it is highly customizable. You can try different proteins like grilled shrimp, sautéed chicken, or even scrambled eggs and bacon for a breakfast-style burrito. The vegetables in the burrito can also be swapped out; bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms are excellent additions for those looking to incorporate more veggies. For a lighter version, you could use a smaller tortilla and less cheese or sour cream, making it easier to enjoy without sacrificing flavor.
Storing and Reheating California Burritos
If you have leftovers, storing California burritos is easy. Wrap them tightly in aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When reheating, you can place the burrito in the oven at 225°F for about 30 minutes to warm it through. You can also freeze these burritos for up to 3 months by wrapping them tightly in foil and storing them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat.
Serving Suggestions
California burritos are delicious on their own, but if you want to elevate the meal, serve them with extra French fries on the side, or go for the classic rice and beans combo. Mexican rice and refried beans make an excellent side dish to complete the meal, adding a perfect balance of flavors.
Another great side option is a tangy and refreshing Mexican street corn (Elote). The combination of creamy corn and spicy, cheesy toppings pairs wonderfully with the richness of the California burrito. You could also serve a side of guacamole or salsa for an added layer of flavor.
Conclusion
California burritos are a fantastic fusion of flavors that bring together the best elements of Mexican and Californian cuisine. With tender steak, crispy fries, and creamy guacamole all wrapped up in a soft tortilla, they offer a satisfying meal for lunch, dinner, or even as a fun snack for a party. Whether you stick to the classic ingredients or get creative with your fillings, these burritos are sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Perfect for those who love bold flavors and hearty meals, California burritos are easy to make and incredibly delicious.