Name: Easy Dinner Steak Queso Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 450g (1 lb) flank or sirloin steak; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tsp ground cumin; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 1 tsp garlic powder; 2 cups broth or water; Salt, as needed; 1½ cups whole milk; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tbsp butter; 1 tsp chili powder; 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; ½ tsp ground cumin; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped; Lime wedges; Avocado slices; Sliced jalapeños

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Introduction

This easy dinner recipe for Steak Queso Rice combines tender, seared steak with creamy, cheesy queso and fluffy rice for a satisfying meal. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner that’s sure to please the whole family.

Easy Dinner Steak Queso Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

450g (1 lb) flank or sirloin steak
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tbsp olive oil (for steak)
1 tsp garlic powder (for steak)
1½ cups whole milk
½ tsp ground cumin (for queso)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbsp butter
1 tsp chili powder
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
2 cups broth or water
Salt, as needed
1 tbsp olive oil (for rice)
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 tsp garlic powder (for rice)
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Lime wedges (for garnish)
Avocado slices (for garnish)
Sliced jalapeños (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Rub both sides with olive oil, then coat evenly with paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Heat a large skillet until very hot. Sear the steak for 4–5 minutes per side, adjusting for thickness and preferred doneness.
Step 3: Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. Slice thinly across the grain for maximum tenderness.
Step 4: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a pot, heat olive oil, then stir in rice and garlic powder to coat and toast lightly.
Step 5: Add broth or water to the pot and bring to a boil. Cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer gently for 18–20 minutes, until rice is cooked through.
Step 6: In the same skillet used for the steak, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute, stirring frequently.
Step 7: Pour in the milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until smooth and creamy.
Step 8: Season the queso sauce with ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Keep warm over low heat.
Step 9: To assemble, spoon the cooked rice onto plates. Top with sliced steak, then ladle the warm queso sauce over the top.
Step 10: Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, avocado slices, and sliced jalapeños as desired. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the steak for 30 minutes in olive oil, lime juice, and spices before cooking.
Substitute the long-grain rice with brown rice for a heartier, fiber-rich option; just increase cooking time accordingly.
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder to the queso sauce for a smoky twist.
Use leftover cooked rice and steak to save time on busy nights.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the queso sauce if it thickens. The steak is best enjoyed within the first day for optimal tenderness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of steak for this recipe?

Yes, flank or sirloin steak works best for quick cooking and tenderness, but you can use other cuts like ribeye or skirt steak. Adjust cooking times based on the thickness and desired doneness.

Is there a dairy-free version of the queso sauce?

To make a dairy-free queso, substitute the milk with unsweetened non-dairy milk and use a plant-based cheese alternative that melts well. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will be slightly different.