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Featured image showcasing a delicious plate of Queso Rice With Steak.

Queso Rice with Steak

This recipe delivers the ultimate comfort food experience with creamy, cheesy queso rice and perfectly seared, tender steak. It combines the richness of a homemade cheese sauce with flavorful steak and fluffy rice, making it a satisfying and delicious meal. Garnish with fresh toppings for added flavor and visual appeal.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs Sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1 tsp Chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp Cumin
  • 1/4 tsp Garlic powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1 cup Long-grain rice, rinsed
  • 2 cups Chicken broth
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 2 tbsp Butter
  • 2 tbsp All-purpose flour
  • 2 cups Milk
  • 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
  • 4 oz Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup Diced green chiles
  • 1/4 tsp Garlic powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • Chopped cilantro optional
  • Diced tomatoes optional
  • Sour cream optional
  • Avocado slices optional

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • medium saucepan
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • mixing bowl
  • fork

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Steak: In a bowl, toss the steak cubes with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Pour in the chicken broth and add salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
  3. Sear the Steak: While the rice is cooking, heat the large skillet over high heat. Add the seasoned steak cubes in a single layer (work in batches if necessary) and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Make the Queso: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, creating a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Add Cheese and Chiles: Reduce heat to low. Add the Velveeta cheese and Monterey Jack cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and smooth. Stir in the diced green chiles and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Combine and Serve: Gently stir the cooked rice and seared steak into the queso sauce. Mix until everything is well combined.
  7. Garnish and Enjoy: Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and avocado slices, if desired.

Notes

For best results, use a good quality sirloin steak. Marinating the steak for at least 30 minutes will enhance its flavor and tenderness. To prevent the queso from curdling, keep the heat low and stir frequently. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the queso or use a spicier variety of green chiles.