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Easy Steak & Queso Rice Recipe

Easy Steak & Queso Rice Recipe
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This Easy Steak & Queso Rice Recipe combines tender, thinly sliced flank or skirt steak with creamy queso, fluffy long grain white rice, and sautéed vegetables. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a comforting, family-friendly one-pan dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The savory steak and rich queso blend create an indulgent yet approachable meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Steak

  • 1 lb flank or skirt steak, thinly sliced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of cumin or smoked paprika
  • 1–2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for searing)

Rice and Broth

  • 1 cup long grain white rice
  • 2 cups beef broth

Vegetables

  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing)

Cheese

  • 6 oz creamy queso blanco or queso cheese blend

Seasonings and Garnishes

  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Lime juice (optional, for finishing)
  • Fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Steak: Season the steak well with salt, pepper, and your choice of cumin or smoked paprika. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil or butter and sear the steak for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned and cooked to your preference. Remove from the skillet and let it rest to retain juices, then thinly slice against the grain.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil or butter if needed. Sauté the diced onions, minced garlic, and bell peppers (if using) for 4-5 minutes until soft and fragrant. This builds the flavor base for the dish.
  3. Cook the Rice: Add the long grain white rice to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables, stirring to coat the rice grains. Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook according to the rice package instructions, usually about 15-18 minutes, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  4. Add the Queso and Steak: Remove the skillet from heat or reduce to low. Slowly stir in the queso cheese so it melts into a creamy sauce coating the rice and vegetables. Fold in the sliced steak gently to combine and warm through without overcooking.
  5. Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lime juice if desired. Serve the dish hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions for a bright, fresh finish.

Notes

  • Slice steak thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
  • Use quality long grain rice to keep it fluffy and prevent mushiness.
  • Add queso off the heat or on low to avoid curdling and maintain creaminess.
  • Allow steak to rest after cooking to redistribute juices.
  • Adjust spices early to control overall flavor intensity.
  • Optional: swap steak for chicken, shrimp, mushrooms, or tofu for variations.

Nutrition

Keywords: steak recipe, queso rice, one pan meal, quick dinner, comfort food, Tex-Mex, easy weeknight meal, creamy queso

Find it online: https://linacorner.com/easy-steak-queso-rice-recipe/