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Steak & Queso Rice Recipe

Steak & Queso Rice Recipe

5.1 from 12 reviews

This Steak & Queso Rice recipe combines aromatic basmati rice cooked with tomatoes and spices, topped with tender sirloin steak strips and creamy white queso. A flavorful and hearty one-pan meal perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner, served with optional warm flour tortillas and fresh cilantro garnish.

Ingredients

Scale

Rice and Base

  • 2 cups Basmati Rice
  • 2 ½ cups Chicken Broth
  • 1 cube Chicken Bouillon
  • 1 can (about 14 oz) Crushed Tomatoes (can substitute diced tomatoes or tomato sauce)
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 small Onion, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • ½ teaspoon Cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil

Steak

  • 1 pound Sirloin Steak, cut into thin strips
  • 2 tablespoons Butter
  • Montreal Steak Seasoning, to taste

Toppings and Garnish

  • White Queso, for topping
  • Fresh Cilantro, for garnish
  • Flour tortillas, optional for serving

Instructions

  1. Prep the Rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, preventing sticky rice.
  2. Sauté Garlic and Onion: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add minced garlic and chopped onion (if using), sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
  3. Toast the Rice: Add the rinsed rice to the skillet, stirring continuously for 2 minutes to lightly toast and absorb garlic and onion flavors.
  4. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Crumble the bouillon cube into the mixture, then add paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  5. Cook the Rice: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  6. Rest and Fluff: Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes to allow rice to finish cooking and become fluffy.
  7. Prep Steak: Season sirloin steak strips generously with Montreal steak seasoning on both sides while rice cooks.
  8. Cook Steak: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and butter in a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak strips and cook 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare or until desired doneness.
  9. Combine Steak and Rice: Fluff the cooked rice, then add the cooked steak strips on top. Generously drizzle with white queso.
  10. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with warm flour tortillas on the side if desired.

Notes

  • Rinsing the rice well is key to avoiding sticky rice.
  • If you prefer spicier flavor, add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder with the paprika and cumin.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure steak reaches your preferred doneness.
  • White queso can be substituted with any melty cheese like Monterey Jack or queso blanco.
  • Optional onions add sweetness, but recipe works well without them.
  • Leftover steak can be swapped out for grilled chicken or vegetables for variation.
  • Serve immediately for best texture and freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: steak rice recipe, queso rice, basmati rice with steak, easy dinner recipe, flavorful steak meal