As summer evenings roll in, the air fills with the irresistible aroma of grilled meats and vibrant veggies. One dish that perfectly complements this festive vibe is Alambre. Picture this: sizzling bacon, juicy chorizo, tasty beef, and colorful bell peppers coming together in one pan.
Your mouth starts watering just thinking about it, right? It's a dish that begs to be served with warm tortillas. Trust me, I've made it for gatherings more times than I can count, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every single time.
Ah, Alambre. This scrumptious Mexican recipe ticks all the boxes for deliciousness and ease. It’s rich, indulgent, and simply packed with flavor. Traditionally made with marinated meats, I like to enhance it with fresh vegetables, making it a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy.
Plus, with just one skillet involved, clean-up is a breeze, making it a no-brainer for busy weeknights or a fun weekend get-together.
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Alambre is a classic Mexican dish often associated with street food culture. It typically consists of grilled meat, various peppers, and cheese, all blended into a fiesta of flavors. Ingredients can vary by region and family traditions, but the unifying theme is the delightful mix of textures and tastes. Whether you’re indulging at a taco stand or whipping it up at home, Alambre is about being hearty and full of life—just like the vibrant culture it hails from.
People love this Alambre recipe for its versatility and taste. It’s one of those dishes that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. The juicy meats meld beautifully with fresh veggies, and the generous layer of melted cheese brings everything together. It’s easy to customize, too! Feel free to swap in your favorite meats or vegetables, making it a go-to dish that can adapt to anyone’s palate. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping—simply make it ahead of time, and you’ve got lunches or dinners for the week sorted!
Let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 slices of bacon
- ½ pound of chorizo sausage links
- 1 pound of shaved beef (choose from sirloin, ribeye, flank, or top round)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 jalapeño, diced
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (a personal favorite is Dalkin&Co)
- 1 packet of taco-flavored seasoning mix (for an extra flavor boost)
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
- Street-style corn tortillas for serving
- Fresh lime wedges and cilantro for garnish
- Optional: 1 small avocado, diced for a creamy twist
Ingredients From : whatsgabycooking.com
Now that we have everything ready, let's dive into the cooking process. This dish is straightforward, but each step builds fantastic flavor. Here’s how it all comes together!
In a large skillet, set over medium heat, toss in the bacon strips. Cook until they’re crispy and the fat is rendered out, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and let it rest on a plate lined with paper towels. Give it a few minutes to cool before crumbling it into small pieces.
Next, without cleaning the skillet, add the chorizo to the remaining bacon fat in the pan. Break it down with a spoon as it cooks, allowing it to brown and develop a little bit of crispy texture. This should take around 5 to 7 minutes. Trust me, the smell is going to be incredible.
Once the chorizo is cooked through, toss the diced onion and bell peppers into the skillet. Stir everything together, cooking until the onions are translucent and the veggies are just starting to soften, approximately 10-15 minutes. The vibrant colors and scents will make you want to dive right in!
It’s time to bring on the flavor! Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, stirring until all the veggies and meat are well coated. If you’re feeling adventurous, add the packet of taco-flavored seasoning mix for an additional layer of flavor. Let it simmer for another couple of minutes.
Stir in the shaved beef, cooking until it's no longer pink, which should take about 5 minutes. The key here is to not overcook the meat; you want it tender and juicy.
Into the skillet, fold back in the crumbled bacon, and top everything with the shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover the skillet to allow the cheese to melt, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. The gooey cheese is what brings this dish together—so don’t rush this step!
Once the cheese is all melted and bubbly, serve straight from the skillet. Provide warm corn tortillas on the side and garnish with lime wedges and fresh cilantro. If you have some diced avocado, feel free to toss that in for added creaminess!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh peppers and herbs to really enhance the flavors.
- Don’t Overcook the Meat: Keep the beef tender and juicy by not letting it cook too long.
- Mix and Match: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand. Substituting chicken or shrimp works well too!
- Skip the Skillet: Want to grill outdoors? Cook everything over medium heat on a grill for a smoky twist.
- Make it Ahead: Prepping this dish a day before allows the flavors to meld nicely. Just reheat it before serving!
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. It’s convenient to whip out for a quick lunch or dinner!
On average, a serving of Alambre contains about 700 calories, with a good balance of protein and fats from the beans and cheese. There’s also a beneficial mix of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. If you’re watching your calorie intake, consider reducing the cheese or serving smaller portions alongside a fresh salad.
Looking to complete your meal? Here are some delicious ideas:
- Mexican Rice: A classic side that pairs perfectly and soaks up the flavors.
- Refried Beans: Creamy and flavorful, beans add a nice balance to the meatiness of Alambre.
- Guacamole: Top your tortilla with fresh guacamole for a deliciously creamy accompaniment.
- Pico de Gallo: Fresh Salsa adds a zesty kick. This will brighten up the entire dish!
- Corn Salad: A light and refreshing side dish that complements the richness of Alambre.
If you're missing an ingredient or seeking variety, consider these substitutes:
- Ground Beef: For a leaner alternative, switch to ground turkey or chicken.
- Vegetarian Option: Use grilled portobello mushrooms instead of meat for a hearty veggie dish.
- Pepper Substitution: Instead of jalapeño, try poblano peppers for a milder look.
- Dairy-Free Cheese: If you're avoiding dairy, there are various vegan cheese options that melt well.
- Tortilla Alternatives: Looking for gluten-free? Use lettuce wraps as an alternative to tortillas.
As you can see, making Alambre at home is not just achievable—it’s a feast for the senses! From the smell of sizzling bacon to the sight of melted cheese bubbling over the colorful mixture, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
I encourage you to gather your loved ones, fire up that skillet, and dive into the vibrant flavors of this Mexican classic. Enjoy the festivities and happy cooking!
Ah, Alambre. This scrumptious Mexican recipe ticks all the boxes for deliciousness and ease. It’s rich, indulgent, and simply packed with flavor. Traditionally made with marinated meats, I like to enhance it with fresh vegetables, making it a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh peppers and herbs to really enhance the flavors.
- Don’t Overcook the Meat: Keep the beef tender and juicy by not letting it cook too long.
- Mix and Match: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand. Substituting chicken or shrimp works well too!
- Skip the Skillet: Want to grill outdoors? Cook everything over medium heat on a grill for a smoky twist.
- Make it Ahead: Prepping this dish a day before allows the flavors to meld nicely. Just reheat it before serving!
Iris Miller is a registered dietitian and the creator of Friendsgiving Food Ideas, a blog dedicated to festive, accessible recipes that bring people together. Based in Colorado, Iris combines her passion for nutrition and love of celebrations to create crowd-pleasing dishes for holidays and special occasions. Her goal is to make hosting easy, fun, and inclusive for all dietary needs.