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Steak and Queso Rice

Steak and Queso Rice

Steak and Queso Rice is a delicious, comforting one-pot meal combining tender, flavorful steak with creamy melted queso cheese and fluffy rice. Ready in under 30 minutes, it blends bold spices, fresh vegetables, and rich broth to create a satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. Customize to your taste with various protein alternatives, spice levels, and add-ins for a versatile family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Steak

  • 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, trimmed and thinly sliced

Rice and Liquids

  • 1 cup jasmine or long grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken or beef broth

Cheese

  • 1 cup queso cheese or your favorite queso dip (can substitute with shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or cheese blend)

Aromatics and Vegetables

  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)

Spices

  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Garnish

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Chopped green onions

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Season the Steak: Trim any excess fat from the steak and cut into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Season generously with salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika to infuse bold, smoky flavors.
  2. Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: Heat a drizzle of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onions, minced garlic, and chopped bell peppers, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3 to 5 minutes.
  3. Cook the Steak: Push the veggies to the side of the pan and add the steak pieces. Cook until browned on all sides and just cooked through, about 4 to 6 minutes depending on thickness.
  4. Add Rice and Liquids: Stir the rice into the steak and vegetable mixture, coating the grains with flavors. Pour in chicken or beef broth, bring to a gentle simmer, then cover and cook according to rice package instructions, about 15 to 20 minutes, until rice is tender and absorbed the broth.
  5. Stir in Queso Cheese: Reduce heat to low once the rice is cooked. Gently fold in the queso cheese until melted and creamy throughout the dish. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or chopped green onions on top for freshness. Serve warm and enjoy.

Notes

  • Choose flank or sirloin steak for optimal tenderness and flavor when sliced thin.
  • Let the cooked steak rest for a few minutes to retain juiciness and tenderness.
  • Toast the rice briefly in the pan before adding broth to enhance nuttiness.
  • DIY queso dip can elevate the flavor and be tailored to your cheese preference.
  • Season steak, vegetables, and rice separately to build complex, layered flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: steak recipe, queso rice, one pot meal, quick dinner, cheesy steak rice, comfort food, easy weeknight recipe, gluten free