Name: California Burrito
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 large flour tortillas; 1 lb marinated flank steak; 1 cup frozen French fries; 1/2 cup guacamole; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup pico de gallo; 2 tbsp hot sauce

Print Recipe

The California Burrito is a flavor-packed joyride wrapped in a warm tortilla, boasting tender meat, creamy guacamole, and crispy fries. It’s the kind of comfort food that makes you feel like you’ve just won the culinary lottery. When you take your first bite, you’ll experience an explosion of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing with delight, while the warmth of the tortilla wraps around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly night.

Imagine this: You’re at the beach, the sun setting over the Pacific Ocean, and there’s a food truck nearby serving up California Burritos. You order one, and as you unwrap it, the tantalizing aroma wafts into the air. You can almost hear angels singing as you take that first glorious bite. This isn’t just food; it’s an experience—perfect for lazy Sundays or when you’re gathering friends for taco night.

Why You'll Love This California Burrito

This incredible California Burrito transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious California Burrito:

Flour Tortillas: Opt for large tortillas; they’ll hold all those delicious fillings without falling apart.
Marinated Grilled Steak: A juicy cut like flank or skirt steak works best; marinate it for at least an hour to enhance flavor.
French Fries: Use frozen fries for convenience or make fresh ones from scratch if you’re feeling adventurous.
Guacamole: Homemade or store-bought, ensure it’s creamy and flavorful to complement the burrito.
Sour Cream: Adds a tangy richness that balances out all the savory goodness in each bite.
Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice bring brightness to every mouthful.

For the Sauce:

Hot Sauce: Choose your favorite brand to add a kick; it’s essential if you love heat!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious California Burrito:

Step 1: Prepare Your Steak

Begin by marinating your flank steak in olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper for at least one hour. This step infuses each slice with irresistible flavor.

Step 2: Grill That Meat

Preheat your grill or stovetop pan over medium-high heat. Cook your marinated steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it’s perfectly charred and medium-rare. Once done, let it rest before slicing it thinly against the grain.

Step 3: Cook Your Fries

While your steak is resting, prepare your French fries according to package instructions or fry them fresh until golden brown and crispy. Nobody likes soggy fries in a burrito!

Step 4: Assemble Your Burrito

Grab a large flour tortilla and lay down a generous scoop of French fries followed by sliced steak. Top with guacamole, pico de gallo, sour cream, and drizzle with hot sauce for good measure.

Step 5: Roll It Up

Carefully fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it tightly from one end to another. Make sure all those delicious fillings are tucked inside securely!

Step 6: Serve It Right

Slice your burrito in half to reveal its glorious filling. Serve with extra hot sauce on the side because let’s be honest—life is too short not to spice things up!

Now you’re ready to enjoy this phenomenal California Burrito! Grab some friends (or don’t share at all) and dig in—your taste buds will thank you!

You Must Know About California Burrito

This showstopping California Burrito delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by marinating the protein of your choice, whether it’s beef, chicken, or tofu. While it soaks up the flavors, cook the rice and beans separately. Sear the protein last to lock in moisture and then assemble your burrito for a delightful wrap-up.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to switch things up! Try black beans instead of pinto or add avocado for creaminess. Spice lovers can sprinkle in some jalapeños or chipotle sauce to kick it up a notch. Your taste buds are the limit!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, wrap in foil and place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through—this keeps it crispy without compromising flavor.

Chef's Helpful Tips for California Burrito

This professional-quality California Burrito relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Finding out that my friends would happily eat my California Burrito every week was a delightful surprise—who knew my cooking could be so popular? Their enthusiastic feedback made me realize I’d stumbled onto something special, with each bite sparking joy!

FAQs

What is California Burrito?

A California Burrito is a delicious and hearty dish that originated in Southern California. It typically features a flour tortilla filled with carne asada (grilled steak), creamy guacamole, sour cream, pico de gallo, and French fries. This unique combination gives the burrito its signature taste and texture. The California Burrito has become popular due to its satisfying ingredients, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

How do I make a California Burrito at home?

To make a California Burrito at home, start by cooking carne asada on the grill or stovetop. Once cooked, slice the meat into bite-sized pieces. Warm a flour tortilla and layer it with carne asada, French fries, guacamole, sour cream, and pico de gallo. Carefully fold the tortilla around the filling to create a wrap and enjoy your homemade California Burrito!

What are some variations of California Burrito?

California Burritos can be customized to suit different tastes. Some popular variations include substituting chicken or shrimp for carne asada and adding ingredients like jalapeños or cheese for extra flavor. Vegetarian versions often replace meat with grilled vegetables or beans. These adaptations allow you to enjoy the essence of a California Burrito while exploring new flavors.

Where can I find the best California Burrito?

The best California Burrito can often be found in local taquerias or Mexican restaurants in Southern California. Many establishments pride themselves on their unique recipes and fresh ingredients. To discover the top spots near you, consider checking online reviews or asking locals for recommendations on where to enjoy an authentic California Burrito.

Conclusion

In summary, the California Burrito is a flavorful dish that combines carne asada, guacamole, sour cream, pico de gallo, and French fries in a warm tortilla. Making this delightful meal at home is simple and allows for various personal touches. Whether you opt for traditional ingredients or try out innovative versions, enjoying a California Burrito is always a satisfying experience!