Introduction to Steak & Queso Rice
Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure with my Steak & Queso Rice! If you’re like me, juggling a busy schedule, you crave a quick solution for wholesome meals that bring comfort to your family. This dish combines tender steak with creamy queso sauce over fluffy rice, perfectly blending flavors that satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Every bite is a hug from the inside out—exactly what we need after a hectic day. Whether you’re seeking a cozy dinner or something to impress your loved ones, I promise this recipe will hit the spot!
Why You’ll Love This Steak & Queso Rice
You’ll absolutely adore this Steak & Queso Rice for its delectable taste and simplicity. In just 50 minutes, you can whip up a dish that feels indulgent without the fuss. Plus, it’s adaptable! With ingredients you probably already have, it’s a lifesaver on a busy weeknight. The rich, creamy queso and tender steak create a symphony of flavors that will have your family asking for seconds. What’s not to love?
Ingredients for Steak & Queso Rice
Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to create this satisfying Steak & Queso Rice.
- Steak: Use flank or sirloin steak for tenderness. These cuts will sear beautifully, giving you that mouthwatering taste.
- Paprika: This spice adds a smoky depth and a pop of color. It’s a game-changer for seasoning!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing flavors. Season to your liking for a personal touch.
- Ground Cumin: Earthy and warm, cumin gives a wonderful taste that pairs perfectly with the steak.
- Olive Oil: A versatile oil for cooking; it helps sear the steak and adds richness to your rice.
- Garlic Powder: Instant flavor booster that delivers that lovely garlic punch without the fuss of fresh garlic.
- Whole Milk: This creamy base is vital for that luscious queso sauce. You can use low-fat if preferred.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded for melting! It’s what makes the queso irresistibly cheesy and delicious.
- Butter: Adds richness to the queso sauce, creating that silky smooth texture.
- Chili Powder: This adds a hint of heat, brightening the flavor profile without overwhelming the dish.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic enhances the aroma and taste with more depth than powder.
- Monterey Jack Cheese: This cheese melts like a dream, contributing to the creamy allure of your queso sauce.
- Rice: Long-grain white rice is perfect for soaking up all the delicious flavors.
- Broth or Water: Use broth for added flavor, or stick to water for a lighter option.
- Optional Garnishes: Fresh cilantro, lime wedges, avocado slices, and cut jalapeños add freshness and brightness to your dish.
Don’t worry, you can find the exact quantities for all these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Steak & Queso Rice
Making Steak & Queso Rice is easier than you might think! Let’s dive into these simple steps that will guide you to create this mouthwatering dish, just like I do in my kitchen.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
First, gather everything you’ve put on the counter. Clean and chop your garlic, and get your cheeses ready for melting. They need to be within arm’s reach for that delicious queso sauce.
Don’t forget to wash your rice under cold water; this removes excess starch. It’s an important step for fluffy rice, as nobody likes sticky grains!
Step 2: Make the Queso Sauce
Grab that skillet you used for the steak and melt some butter over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic, and let it sizzle until it’s fragrant, about a minute.
Next, stir in the whole milk, bringing it to a light simmer. Slowly add your shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Stir gently, letting each handful melt before adding the next.
Keep your sauce smooth and creamy, seasoning with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste. That cheesy goodness will captivate your senses!
Step 3: Cook the Rice
In a pot, heat a splash of olive oil and add the rinsed rice alongside some garlic powder. Stir it around for a few minutes to toast it lightly, waking up those flavors.
Then, pour in your broth or water and bring it to a boil. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low for about 18-20 minutes, until the rice is tender and fluffy.
Fluff it with a fork when it’s done. Your kitchen will smell divine!
Step 4: Prepare the Steak
While your rice is cooking, let’s focus on that steak! Pat it dry with paper towels and drizzle a bit of olive oil over it.
Now sprinkle paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper on both sides, pressing the spices into the meat for maximum flavor.
Heat up a large skillet over high heat and sear your seasoned steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Adjust the time based on how you prefer it cooked. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing—this keeps it juicy!
Step 5: Combine & Serve
Now the moment of truth! Serve your fluffy rice onto the plates, followed by those juicy steak strips, and give it a generous drizzle of that warm, creamy queso sauce.
Top it off with fresh cilantro, jalapeños, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime for a burst of flavor.
Dig in immediately while it’s warm and melty, sharing those smiles with your family!
Tips for Success
- Let your steak rest before cutting to maintain juiciness.
- For a spicier queso, add diced jalapeños right into the sauce.
- Experiment with different cheeses for your queso—pepper jack adds a kick!
- Serve the dish hot for that gooey cheese experience.
- Feel free to prepare the queso and rice ahead of time; just reheat before serving.
Equipment Needed
- Skillet: A large, heavy skillet works best for searing. A non-stick one is a great alternative!
- Pot: A medium-sized pot for cooking the rice—don’t fret if you don’t have a fancy one!
- Cutting Board: Essential for slicing your steak. A plastic or wood board will do.
- Knife: A sharp chef’s knife makes all the difference for prep work.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Useful for precise ingredient measurements.
Variations of Steak & Queso Rice
- Protein Swap: Try using chicken or shrimp instead of steak for a lighter twist. Both are delicious in this creamy queso setting!
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the steak with grilled veggies, like bell peppers and zucchini, for a vibrant and fulfilling meal.
- Spice It Up: For those who crave heat, mix in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the queso sauce.
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with other cheese blends. Gouda or feta can add unique flavors to your queso!
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, use riced cauliflower instead of traditional rice. It soaks up the queso flavor beautifully!
Serving Suggestions for Steak & Queso Rice
- Fresh Salads: A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully to balance the richness.
- Drinks: Serve with a zesty limeade or a refreshing iced tea for a perfect meal.
- Presentation: Use colorful plates to showcase the vibrant toppings—think avocado and cilantro splashes.
- Stay Warm: Keep the queso sauce warm in a small saucepan for easy drizzling at the table!
FAQs about Steak & Queso Rice
What cut of steak is best for this recipe?
Using flank or sirloin steak is ideal as both cuts are tender and can absorb the flavorful seasonings beautifully. Each provides a great sear, enhancing the overall taste.
Can I make the queso sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the queso sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat gently before serving to keep that creamy consistency.
How can I adjust the recipe for picky eaters?
You can tone down the spices or simply skip the jalapeños and serve them on the side. Most kids love the cheesy goodness, so keep the queso sauce as mild as you like!
Is Steak & Queso Rice a gluten-free dish?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the ingredients you use (like the broth) are gluten-free. It’s a comforting option for those avoiding gluten.
Can I freeze leftovers of this dish?
Yes, you can! Store the components separately in airtight containers. When you’re ready to enjoy again, thaw the steak and reheat the queso sauce for a quick meal!
Final Thoughts on Steak & Queso Rice
Creating this Steak & Queso Rice has been nothing short of a joyful culinary adventure for me. Each bite fills your heart with warmth and satisfaction, perfect for a family gathering or a cozy night in. I cherish the moments spent around the table, sharing stories and laughter while savoring this comforting dish. Plus, knowing I can whip it up in under an hour makes it a go-to for busy nights. So, roll up your sleeves and let your taste buds dance with delight. You’ll find this comforting plate brings everyone together in the most delicious way!
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Steak & Queso Rice
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious comfort dish featuring tender steak served with creamy queso sauce over rice.
Ingredients
- For the Steak:
- 450g (1 lb) flank or sirloin steak
- 1 tsp paprika
- A sprinkle of salt and pepper, to your taste
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- For the Queso Sauce:
- 1½ cups whole milk
- A pinch of salt and pepper, to your liking
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 2 garlic cloves, chopped finely
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- For the Rice:
- 2 cups broth (or water if you prefer)
- A bit of salt, as needed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Wedges of lime
- Slices of avocado
- Cut jalapeños
Instructions
- Grab the skillet you used for the steak and melt butter over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic, letting it cook until fragrant, about a minute. Stir in the milk, bringing it to a light simmer.
- Wash the rice under cold water to rinse off the extra starch. Heat some olive oil in a pot, then stir in your rice and garlic powder to coat it well. Let the grains toast lightly for a couple of minutes before adding the broth or water. Bring it to a boil, cover the pot, and simmer on low for 18-20 minutes until soft.
- After cooking, put the steak on a board and let it sit for 5-10 minutes so the juices don’t run out when cutting. Slice it into thin strips across the grain to keep it tender.
- Dry off the steak with paper towels and rub it with a little olive oil. Sprinkle the paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over both sides, pressing it into the meat.
- Slowly stir in the shredded cheeses, adding a handful at a time. Let it melt completely before adding the next. Keep stirring until smooth, then season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Heat a large skillet until very hot, then cook your seasoned steak for 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on how thick it is and your preferred doneness.
- Pile some rice onto each plate, add your steak strips, and drizzle warm, cheesy queso sauce over everything. Serve it up hot while the sauce is melty and the steak is warm.
- Toss on fresh cilantro, some jalapeños for heat, avocado slices for creaminess, and lime for a zesty pop.
Notes
- Make sure the steak rests after cooking to keep it juicy.
- Feel free to adjust the spices based on your preference.
- Use low-fat cheese if you’re looking for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet and stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 700
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
