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Steak & Queso Rice Recipe

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4.3 from 4 reviews

A flavorful and hearty Steak & Queso Rice dish combining tender sirloin steak strips with perfectly cooked basmati rice simmered in a savory tomato and chicken broth mixture, topped with creamy white queso and fresh cilantro. This recipe delivers a satisfying one-pot meal with Tex-Mex influences, ideal for a comforting lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Rice and Sauce

  • 2 cups Basmati Rice
  • 2 ½ cups Chicken Broth
  • 1 cube Chicken Bouillon
  • 1 can (about 14 oz) Crushed Tomatoes (or 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)
  • Montreal steak seasoning (to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
  • 2 tablespoons Butter

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 and prevent stickiness.
  2. Sauté Garlic and Onion: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion (optional) and sauté 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onion is translucent.
  3. Toast the Rice: Add rinsed rice to the skillet and stir continuously for about 2 minutes, allowing the rice to lightly toast and absorb the garlic and onion flavors.
  4. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, crumble in the chicken bouillon cube, then add paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  5. Cook the Rice: Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover with a lid and simmer for 18-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
  6. Rest and Fluff: Remove skillet from heat, keep covered, and let rice rest for 5 minutes to become fluffy.
  7. Prep Steak: While the rice cooks, season sirloin steak strips generously with Montreal steak seasoning on both sides.
  8. Cook Steak: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and butter in a separate skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add seasoned steak strips and cook about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare or desired doneness.
  9. Add Steak to Rice: Fluff the cooked rice and arrange the cooked steak strips on top. Generously drizzle with white queso over the steak and rice.
  10. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with warm flour tortillas on the side if desired.

Notes

  • Using basmati rice yields a fluffier texture due to its long grains.
  • Adjust steak cooking time based on preferred doneness.
  • White queso adds a creamy texture and mild flavor; can substitute with cheddar or pepper jack if preferred.
  • Flour tortillas are optional but enhance the dish as a wrap or side.
  • For a spicier kick, consider adding chopped jalapeños or hot sauce.
  • If avoiding onion, omit without compromising the dish significantly.