Cheesy Steak and Queso Rice

Cheesy Steak and Queso Rice: Delicious 15-Minute Dinner

by

Cheesy Steak and Queso Rice: Delicious 15-Minute Dinner

Table of Contents

Introduction: Your New Favorite 15-Minute Dinner

Craving a quick, satisfying, and utterly delicious meal? Look no further than this incredible Cheesy Steak and Queso Rice: Delicious 15-Minute Dinner! This recipe is your answer to busy weeknights when you need something flavorful on the table fast.

Get ready to impress your taste buds with tender steak, creamy queso, and fluffy rice, all coming together in a flash. It’s the ultimate comfort food hack that’s surprisingly easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Steak and Queso Rice

This recipe isn’t just fast; it’s packed with incredible flavor and versatility. You’ll love the rich, savory taste of the steak paired with the irresistible creaminess of the queso. It’s truly an easy weeknight meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Perfect for families or meal prepping, this queso rice recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a staple. Say goodbye to boring dinners and hello to a new favorite fast dinner idea!

Ingredients for Your Quick Meal

Gather these simple ingredients to create your amazing Cheesy Steak and Queso Rice dish. Most of these are likely already in your pantry or easily found at any grocery store.

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb sirloin steak, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup uncooked white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
  • 1/2 cup store-bought queso blanco or Velveeta cheese sauce
  • 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

Simple Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to prepare your mouth-watering cheesy steak rice. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this comes together!

Step 1: Prep the Steak

  1. Pat the thinly sliced sirloin steak dry with paper towels. This helps ensure a good sear.
  2. In a bowl, toss the steak with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

  1. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
  2. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Queso Rice

  1. In the same skillet (no need to clean it, embrace the fond!), add the uncooked white rice. Toast the rice for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until slightly golden.
  2. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
  3. Once the rice is cooked, stir in the store-bought queso blanco until thoroughly combined and creamy. If using, mix in the shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese until melted. For more details on cooking perfect rice, Read our in-depth guide here.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

  1. Return the cooked steak to the skillet with the queso rice. Gently fold everything together until the steak is warmed through and evenly distributed.
  2. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately. This cheesy steak and queso rice is best enjoyed hot!

Expert Tips for a Flawless Dish

Achieving a perfect cheesy steak rice every time is easy with these insider tips. A little planning goes a long way!

  • Don’t Overcook the Steak: Sirloin cooks quickly, so keep a close eye on it to maintain tenderness. Overcooked steak can become tough. For tips on perfectly searing steak, you might want to check out Serious Eats’ guide to cooking steak.
  • Thin Slices are Key: Cutting your steak thinly against the grain ensures it cooks fast and stays tender, which is crucial for a 15-minute dinner.
  • Use Good Quality Queso: A high-quality queso blanco will elevate the flavor and creaminess of your dish significantly.
  • Spice it Up: Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to your steak seasoning for an extra kick.

Serving Suggestions & Delicious Variations

This Cheesy Steak and Queso Rice is a complete meal on its own, but you can always enhance it or switch things up!

  • Add Veggies: Stir in some corn, black beans, or sautéed bell peppers and onions with the rice for added nutrients and color.
  • Spicy Kick: Drizzle with sriracha or your favorite hot sauce before serving.
  • Cheese Please: Experiment with different cheese blends. Pepper Jack can add a nice heat, or a sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor.
  • Protein Swap: Not a fan of steak? This recipe works wonderfully with seasoned ground beef, chicken, or even shrimp for a different quick steak recipe experience.

frequently asked question

Can I use pre-cooked rice for this recipe?

Yes, you absolutely can! If using pre-cooked rice, you can skip steps 5 and 6. Simply heat the rice in the skillet with a splash of broth, then stir in the queso and combine with the steak as instructed in step 8. This can make your easy weeknight meal even faster!

What kind of steak is best for Cheesy Steak and Queso Rice?

Thinly sliced sirloin is recommended for its tenderness and quick cooking time. Flank steak or skirt steak would also work well, just be sure to slice them against the grain for maximum tenderness.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat, you can incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the steak seasoning, add diced jalapeños to the rice, or stir in a dash of your favorite hot sauce with the queso. You could also use a spicy queso blend.

Leave a Comment