Description
Steak & Queso Rice is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender seared steak with creamy, cheesy queso sauce mixed into fluffy rice. Enhanced with savory spices, optional bell peppers, and fresh cilantro, this recipe is perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal that comes together in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Steak
- 1 lb flank steak, sirloin, or your preferred cut of steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
Rice
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups beef broth (or water)
Queso Sauce & Extras
- 1 cup shredded queso cheese (or Velveeta for a smoother melt)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional, for added freshness)
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and beef broth (or water). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Steak: While the rice cooks, season the steak with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and chili powder if using. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain into thin strips.
- Make the Queso Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the shredded queso cheese or Velveeta and allow it to melt, stirring frequently to avoid burning. For extra creaminess, stir in sour cream until smooth and combined. Optionally, add diced bell peppers to the melted cheese for added flavor and color.
- Assemble the Dish: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the cheesy queso sauce until well coated. Top the cheesy rice with the sliced steak and sprinkle with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.
- Serve: Serve the Steak & Queso Rice immediately while warm, enjoying the cheesy, savory flavors in every bite.
Notes
- You can substitute beef broth with water for a milder flavor.
- Adjust chili powder according to your spice preference or omit it for a milder dish.
- Use Velveeta cheese if you prefer a smoother and creamier queso sauce.
- Allowing the steak to rest before slicing ensures it stays juicy and tender.
- Adding diced bell peppers is optional but adds a nice crunch and color to the dish.
- Fresh cilantro and lime juice brighten up the flavors and add freshness to the dish.
