Savory Steak & Queso Rice Satisfying Dinner Delight

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Looking for a dinner that packs a punch in flavor? Let me introduce you to my Savory Steak & Queso Rice. This dish combines tender flank steak, creamy queso, and fresh veggies, all resting on a bed of fluffy rice. It’s easy to make and perfect for any night. Join me as I guide you through each step, ensuring your meal is both satisfying and delicious! Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced

– 1 cup long-grain white rice

– 2 cups chicken broth

– 1 cup queso cheese (store-bought or homemade)

Vegetables & Seasonings

– 1 bell pepper, diced

– 1 small onion, finely chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Garnishes & Serving Suggestions

– Fresh cilantro, chopped

– Lime wedges

To make Steak & Queso Rice, you need a mix of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The flank steak is the star here. It brings a rich, juicy taste that pairs perfectly with the creamy queso. This dish is also quick and simple to prepare.

For the rice, I use long-grain white rice. It cooks fluffy and absorbs all the flavors from the chicken broth. This adds depth to the dish. Chicken broth makes a big difference in taste. You can also use homemade broth if you have it.

The veggies are just as important. I like to use a bell pepper. It adds a sweet crunch. Onions bring a mild flavor, and garlic gives a nice kick. These sauté together to create a warm, inviting base.

Don’t forget the spices. Ground cumin and smoked paprika boost the flavor. They add warmth and depth. Salt and pepper help bring all the tastes together.

For garnishing, fresh cilantro brightens the dish. Lime wedges add a zesty finish. You can squeeze lime juice right before you eat. It really wakes up the flavors!

This savory mix of ingredients creates a fantastic dinner. You can find the full recipe above to guide you through each step. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Rice

– Combine rice with chicken broth.

– Bring to a boil and lower heat.

– Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.

– Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.

Cooking rice properly is key. Using chicken broth adds a rich flavor. It brings depth to the dish. Ensure you fluff the rice. This keeps it light and prevents clumping.

Searing the Steak

– Season flank steak with spices.

– Heat olive oil in a skillet.

– Sear the steak until browned, about 3-4 minutes.

Searing the steak is important for flavor. The spices add a nice kick. Use a hot skillet to get a good sear. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. This keeps the steak juicy and tender.

Sautéing the Vegetables

– Add onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet.

– Sauté until softened and aromatic.

Sautéing the veggies enhances their flavors. The aroma alone will make your mouth water. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. This step adds color and texture to your dish.

Combining All Ingredients

– Return cooked steak to the skillet.

– Fold in cooked rice evenly.

Mixing everything together is where the magic happens. Make sure to combine well. Each bite should have steak, rice, and veggies. This ensures a well-balanced dish.

Adding the Queso

– Pour queso over the steak and rice mixture.

– Stir until melted and creamy.

The queso brings everything together. It adds creaminess and a cheesy goodness. Stir gently to coat all the ingredients. This step elevates the dish to a new level.

Serving the Dish

– Garnish with cilantro.

– Serve with lime wedges.

Garnishing with cilantro adds freshness. Lime wedges offer a zesty kick. This brightens the flavors and makes it fun. Enjoy your Steak & Queso Rice as a satisfying meal.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving Perfectly Cooked Steak

To cook steak just right, follow these timings based on how you like it:

– Rare: 2-3 minutes per side

– Medium Rare: 3-4 minutes per side

– Medium: 4-5 minutes per side

– Medium Well: 5-6 minutes per side

– Well Done: 6-7 minutes per side

Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This keeps the juices in. If you slice right away, the juices run out.

Enhancing Flavor Profiles

Seasoning can change your dish. Here are some ideas:

– Add chili powder for heat.

– Use fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for freshness.

– Try a splash of lime juice for brightness.

For toppings, consider:

– Avocado slices for creaminess.

– Sour cream for tang.

– Fresh jalapeños for heat.

Making Homemade Queso

Making queso is easy! Here’s a quick recipe:

1. Melt 1 cup of cheese (like cheddar) in a pot.

2. Stir in 1/2 cup milk until smooth.

3. Add diced tomatoes or green chilies for flavor.

For thicker queso, use less milk. For thinner, add more. Customize it with spices or extra cheese to suit your taste.

You can find the Full Recipe for a complete guide on creating this dish.

Variations

Alternative Proteins

You can easily swap the flank steak for chicken or shrimp. Chicken offers a lighter option and cooks quickly. Shrimp cooks fast and adds a nice seafood twist. If you prefer a meatless dish, use black beans or lentils. Both options provide protein and keep the meal hearty.

Spice Level Adjustments

Want some heat? Add jalapeños or other spicy peppers to the skillet. Fresh or pickled jalapeños work well. You can also use spicy seasoning blends like taco seasoning or cayenne pepper. Just sprinkle them in while cooking for a kick that suits your taste.

Grain Variations

If you want a healthier twist, try brown rice or quinoa. Brown rice has more fiber, but it needs a longer cook time. Quinoa cooks faster and adds a nutty flavor. Adjust your cooking time based on your choice of grain to ensure everything is perfect.

For the full recipe, check out the complete guide.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To store leftovers, let your Steak & Queso Rice cool down first. Use airtight containers to keep it fresh. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure to seal them tightly. This helps prevent odors from mixing in your fridge. Store it in the fridge for up to three days.

Freezing Tips

If you want to save portions for later, freezing is a great option. Divide the rice mixture into individual servings. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Label each with the date, so you know when to use them. To reheat, thaw the portion in the fridge overnight. Heat it in the microwave or on the stove until hot. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry.

Shelf Life

Refrigerated Steak & Queso Rice lasts about three days. Frozen leftovers can stay good for up to three months. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. Look for off smells, discoloration, or mold. If you see any of these, it’s best to throw it away.

FAQs

How long does it take to cook Steak & Queso Rice?

Making this dish takes about 45 minutes total. Here’s how it breaks down:

– Prep time: 15 minutes

– Cook time: 30 minutes

This timing includes cooking the rice, searing the steak, and sautéing the veggies. It all comes together quickly.

Can I use other cheese types for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other cheese types! Here are some great options:

– Cheddar cheese for a sharp flavor

– Monterey Jack for a creamy touch

– Pepper Jack for a spicy kick

Feel free to mix cheeses for a unique taste!

What is the best side dish to serve with Steak & Queso Rice?

To balance the rich flavors, I recommend these side dishes:

– A fresh green salad with light dressing

– Grilled vegetables, like zucchini or asparagus

– Cornbread for a sweet, fluffy addition

These sides pair well and complete the meal. For the full recipe, check out the section above!

This dish combines tasty steak, creamy queso, and fragrant rice. You learned how to cook it step by step. Remember to adjust spices and try different proteins for variety. Store leftovers properly to enjoy later. Whether you’re serving this at a gathering or just for yourself, it’s sure to please. This meal is fun, easy, and full of flavor. Enjoy your cooking journey and the delicious results.

Steak & Queso Rice

Elevate your dinner routine with a delicious Steak & Queso Rice Fiesta! This mouthwatering recipe features tender flank steak, fluffy rice, and a creamy queso that brings it all together. With vibrant bell peppers and aromatic spices, it's an explosion of flavor in every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this dish is easy to make and irresistible. Click through to discover the full recipe and get cooking tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  

1 lb flank steak, sliced into thin strips

1 cup long-grain white rice

2 cups chicken broth

1 cup queso cheese (store-bought or homemade)

1 bell pepper, diced (any color)

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

 

Cook the Rice:

In a medium saucepan, combine the long-grain rice and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the broth has been fully absorbed. After cooking, remove from heat and allow the rice to sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before setting it aside.

Sear the Steak:

While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the sliced flank steak generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, ground cumin, and smoked paprika. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned steak to the skillet. Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes, or until it has browned and reached your desired level of doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Sauté the Vegetables:

In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion, diced bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, or until they are softened and aromatic, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

Combine Ingredients:

Return the cooked steak to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables, stirring to integrate them evenly. Next, gently fold the cooked rice into the skillet, ensuring all components are well combined.

Add Queso:

Pour the queso cheese over the steak and rice mixture. Use a spatula or spoon to gently stir until the queso has melted and uniformly coats all ingredients, creating a creamy consistency.

Serve:

Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the dish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve the Steak & Queso Rice Fiesta hot, accompanied by lime wedges for an added zesty kick.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 30 min | Serves 4

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?