Steak Queso Rice is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of tender steak, creamy queso, and fluffy rice, creating a meal that is both satisfying and indulgent. As someone who has always been captivated by the fusion of Mexican and American cuisines, I find that this dish perfectly embodies the best of both worlds. The history of queso, a beloved cheese dip, dates back to the early 20th century in the United States, where it quickly became a staple at gatherings and celebrations. When combined with steak and rice, it transforms into a hearty meal that is not only delicious but also incredibly convenient for busy weeknights.
People love Steak Queso Rice for its incredible taste and texture. The savory, marinated steak pairs beautifully with the creamy, cheesy sauce, while the rice serves as a perfect base to soak up all those wonderful flavors. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, its easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Join me as we dive into this mouthwatering recipe that is bound to become a favorite in your household!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb flank steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup queso dip (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 jalapeño, diced (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
Preparing the Steak
1. Start by taking the flank steak out of the refrigerator and letting it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This helps it cook more evenly. 2. While the steak is resting, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This will be your seasoning blend. 3. Rub the olive oil all over the flank steak, then sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly on both sides of the meat. Make sure to massage it in well for maximum flavor. 4. Preheat a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, you can add a little more olive oil to the pan to prevent sticking. 5. Once the grill or skillet is hot, place the steak on it. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer it more well done. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; 130°F is medium-rare. 6. Once cooked to your liking, remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender.Cooking the Rice
7. While the steak is resting, rinse the long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy. 8. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and beef broth. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. 9. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking, as this can release steam and affect the cooking process. 10. After the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This helps to fluff the rice.Combining Ingredients
11. While the rice is resting, chop the rested flank steak into thin strips against the grain. This ensures that each bite is tender and easy to chew. 12. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, black beans, corn, and diced jalapeño (if using). Gently fold the ingredients together until well mixed. 13. Next, add the chopped steak to the rice mixture and stir to combine. Make sure the steak is evenly distributed throughout the rice and bean mixture. 14. Now, its time to add the queso dip. Pour the queso over the rice and steak mixture, and gently fold it in until everything is well coated. The warmth of the rice will help melt the queso, creating a creamy texture.Assembling the Dish
15. To serve, I like to use a large serving platter or individual bowls. Spoon the steak queso rice mixture onto the platter or into bowls, making sure to get a good mix of all the ingredients. 16. For a pop of color and freshness, sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top of the dish. This not only adds flavor but also makes it visually appealing. 17. Serve the steak queso rice with lime wedges on the side. Squeezing fresh lime juice over the dish just before eating adds a zesty kick that complements the richness of the queso and steak.Tips and Variations
18. If you want to add more veggies, consider mixing in diced bell peppers or sautéed onions when combining the rice and beans. 19. For a spicier kick, you can add diced serrano peppers or a splash of hot sauce to the queso mixture. 20. If youre looking for a lighter version, you can substitute the flank steak with
Conclusion:
In summary, this Steak Queso Rice recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners or impress guests at a gathering. The combination of tender steak, creamy queso, and fluffy rice creates a mouthwatering dish that is both satisfying and indulgent. Plus, its incredibly versatile! You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, swapping out the steak for chicken or shrimp, or even making it vegetarian by using black beans and extra cheese. I encourage you to give this recipe a shot and experience the delightful flavors for yourself. Whether you serve it as a hearty main dish or as a side to complement your favorite Mexican-inspired meal, I promise it will be a hit. Dont forget to share your experience with me! Id love to hear how you made it your own and any variations you tried. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and lets get cooking! You wont regret diving into this delicious Steak Queso Rice. Print
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