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Steak Queso Rice Recipe

4.4 from 112 reviews

Steak Queso Rice is a flavorful and comforting dish combining tender, well-seasoned flank or sirloin steak with creamy, cheesy queso sauce served over perfectly cooked garlic-infused white rice. This recipe balances bold spices like cumin and chili powder with fresh garnishes including cilantro, lime wedges, avocado slices, and jalapeños for a satisfying and delicious meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Steak

  • 450g (1 lb) flank or sirloin steak
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Rice

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cups broth or water
  • Salt, as needed

Queso Sauce

  • 1½ cups whole milk
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnishes

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Lime wedges
  • Avocado slices
  • Sliced jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Season and Prepare the Steak: Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Rub it with olive oil and evenly coat both sides with paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to build a flavorful crust.
  2. Cook the Steak: Heat a large skillet over high heat until very hot. Sear the steak for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, depending on thickness and desired doneness, to develop a rich brown sear.
  3. Rest and Slice the Steak: Transfer the steak to a cutting board and allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps retain juices. Then slice thinly across the grain to ensure tenderness.
  4. Prepare the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Stir in the rice and garlic powder, toasting lightly for enhanced flavor. Add broth or water, season with salt, bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low heat for 18 to 20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
  5. Start the Queso Base: Using the skillet previously used for the steak, melt butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  6. Finish the Queso Sauce: Slowly pour in the whole milk and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually add shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
  7. Assemble the Dish: Spoon the cooked garlic rice onto plates. Top with sliced steak, then ladle the warm queso sauce over the steak and rice. Garnish generously with chopped cilantro, lime wedges, avocado slices, and sliced jalapeños for a fresh and zesty finish.

Notes

  • Resting the steak is crucial to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Rinsing the rice removes excess starch for fluffier grains.
  • Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting and flavor.
  • Adjust the seasoning of the queso sauce according to your spice preference.
  • Optional garnishes like avocado and jalapeños provide creaminess and heat.

Keywords: steak queso rice, cheesy steak rice, Mexican steak recipe, creamy queso, skillet steak recipe