Grilled Steak Bowl: Juicy, Flavorful & Easy to Make

If you’re craving a hearty, protein-packed meal that’s vibrant, fresh, and bursting with flavor, this Grilled Steak Bowl is a game-changer. Tender, marinated flank steak is grilled to perfection and paired with cilantro lime rice, charred corn, black beans, creamy avocado, and a tangy cilantro lime dressing. It’s a balanced, customizable, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, lunch bowls, or meal prep.

With bold flavors, colorful toppings, and a creamy dressing, this bowl delivers restaurant-quality taste in under an hour.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy and flavorful steak – marinated and grilled to perfection
• Balanced and fresh – protein, grains, and vegetables in every bite
• Quick weeknight meal – ready in about 35 minutes
• Customizable – swap toppings or adjust spice to taste
• Meal prep friendly – store ingredients separately for easy assembly

Ingredients

For the Steak & Marinade

• Flank steak or sirloin (1.5 lbs, 1-inch thick) – tender, flavorful protein
• Soy sauce (low sodium) – savory umami marinade base
• Olive oil – keeps steak juicy and aids grilling
• Lime juice (2 limes) – adds brightness and tenderizes
• Honey – subtle sweetness and caramelization
• Garlic, minced – aromatic and savory
• Cumin – warm, earthy flavor
• Chili powder – adds mild spice

For the Bowls & Dressing

• Long-grain white rice (1.5 cups, uncooked) – fluffy base
• Greek yogurt (1 cup, plain) – creamy dressing base
• Cilantro, chopped (1 cup + more for garnish) – fresh, herbal flavor
• Corn (1 cup, fresh or frozen, charred) – sweet and slightly smoky
• Black beans (1 can, rinsed and drained) – hearty protein and fiber
• Avocado, sliced – creamy texture
• Cherry tomatoes, halved (1 cup) – fresh and juicy
• Red onion, thinly sliced (1/2) – crisp, slightly sharp flavor
• Lime juice (1 lime) – tangy dressing flavor
• Salt – to taste

Equipment Needed

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowls
• Blender (for dressing)
• Knife and cutting board

How to Make Grilled Steak Bowls

Make the Marinade

In a medium bowl or large resealable bag, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, juice of 2 limes, honey, minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder until well combined.

Marinate the Steak

Add the steak to the marinade and coat fully. Marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 4 hours in the fridge for maximum flavor.

Cook the Rice

While the steak marinates, cook rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and stir in 1/2 cup chopped cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Prepare Toppings and Dressing

Chop vegetables. To make the dressing, blend Greek yogurt, remaining 1/2 cup cilantro, juice of 1 lime, and a pinch of salt. Add a tablespoon of water if needed for desired consistency.

Grill the Steak

Preheat the grill to medium-high (400–450°F). Grill steak 4–6 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness.

Rest and Slice

Transfer steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Slice thinly against the grain.

Assemble the Bowls

Divide cilantro lime rice among four bowls. Top with sliced steak, charred corn, black beans, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and red onion. Drizzle generously with cilantro lime dressing. Garnish with extra cilantro and serve immediately.

Tips for Success

• Rest the steak – crucial for juicy, tender slices
• Slice against the grain – ensures maximum tenderness
• Char the corn – adds smoky sweetness
• Adjust spice – sprinkle chili powder in the rice or dressing for extra kick

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option – replace steak with grilled tofu or portobello mushrooms
• Spicy Version – add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce
• Different Grains – swap rice with quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice
• Extra Creamy Dressing – mix Greek yogurt with avocado for a richer sauce

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm for dinner or chilled for meal prep
• Pair with a side salad or roasted vegetables
• Garnish with lime wedges for extra freshness
• Top with pickled onions or roasted peppers for added flavor

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of steak?
Yes, sirloin, ribeye, or skirt steak works well, just adjust cooking time.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, store ingredients separately for up to 4 days and assemble before serving.

Can I cook the steak indoors?
Yes, use a stovetop grill pan or broil in the oven for 5–7 minutes per side.

Is the dressing spicy?
No, it’s mild and creamy. Add a pinch of chili powder or hot sauce if desired.

Can I freeze this meal?
Best enjoyed fresh; freezing may affect avocado texture.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Steak Bowl is a perfect weeknight meal that’s colorful, flavorful, and filling. With juicy, marinated steak, fresh vegetables, creamy cilantro lime dressing, and fluffy rice, it’s a bowl everyone will love. Whether for dinner, lunch, or meal prep, it’s an easy, healthy, and satisfying recipe that brings restaurant-quality flavors to your home.

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