Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Steak & Queso Rice is a flavorful, satisfying dish for many reasons:
- Juicy Sirloin Steak – The perfectly cooked sirloin steak adds a savory richness to the dish that pairs beautifully with the creamy queso.
- Creamy Queso – Drizzling Pancho’s White Queso over the steak and rice adds a delicious creamy texture that elevates the dish to a whole new level of comfort.
- Quick and Easy – With only 35 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without the hassle.
- Customizable – You can adjust the seasoning and spice level to suit your preferences, or even swap out ingredients for variations.
- Complete Meal – This dish comes with everything you need: protein, rice, and a creamy finish. Serve it alongside warm flour tortillas, and you’ve got a full, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
To make Steak & Queso Rice, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of long grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- 8 ounces of tomato sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of dried cilantro
- 1 pound of sirloin steak, sliced
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- Montreal steak spice (to taste)
- Pancho’s White Queso (enough for drizzling)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnishing
- Flour tortillas for serving
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Follow these simple steps to create your flavorful Steak & Queso Rice:
Rice Preparation:
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the rice and stir continuously until it begins to brown slightly. Be careful not to burn it.
- Add Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté over medium-low heat until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant.
Cooking the Rice:
- Add Liquids and Spices: Pour in the chicken broth and tomato sauce, stirring to combine. Add salt, black pepper, ground cumin, and dried cilantro. Bring the mixture to a brisk boil and let it boil for two minutes.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the rice simmer for about 20 minutes, until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Steak Preparation:
- Cook the Steak: While the rice is cooking, melt the butter in another large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sirloin steak and season generously with Montreal steak spice. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the steak reaches your desired doneness. Once cooked, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
Finalizing the Rice:
- Let the Rice Sit: After the rice has simmered and absorbed the liquid, turn off the heat. Keep the skillet covered for an additional 10 minutes to allow the rice to continue absorbing flavors and to perfect the texture.
Assembly and Service:
- Assemble the Dish: Fluff the rice gently with a fork and transfer it to a serving platter. Layer the cooked steak over the rice. Drizzle the creamy Pancho’s White Queso generously over the steak and rice.
- Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top for a pop of color and added flavor.
- Serve: Serve the Steak & Queso Rice with warm flour tortillas on the side for a complete, satisfying meal.
Servings and Timing
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 5 servings
Variations
- Add Vegetables: To make the dish even heartier, consider adding sautéed bell peppers, corn, or spinach to the rice or steak mixture.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or jalapeños to the rice or steak for a spicy twist.
- Ground Beef or Chicken: Substitute the sirloin steak with ground beef or grilled chicken for a different protein option.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Ensure the chicken broth and Pancho’s White Queso are gluten-free if needed.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftover Steak & Queso Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the rice and steak in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Drizzle extra queso before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese for the queso?
Yes, you can use any melty cheese, like cheddar or Monterey Jack, if Pancho’s White Queso is unavailable. However, the creamy consistency of queso will add a unique texture to the dish.
2. Can I substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth?
Yes, vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version of the recipe. It will still provide great flavor.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rice and steak ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Reheat and add the queso just before serving.
4. Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes! You can use flank steak, ribeye, or strip steak. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the steak.
5. How do I make sure the steak is tender?
To ensure your steak is tender, cook it to your desired doneness, and let it rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing. This helps retain the juices.
6. Can I make this recipe spicier?
If you love spice, add jalapeños or chili powder to the rice or steak, or drizzle some spicy salsa on top to enhance the heat.
7. Can I skip the tortillas?
Yes, the tortillas are optional, but they make the meal more complete and provide a delicious way to scoop up the rice and steak.
8. What can I serve with Steak & Queso Rice?
This dish pairs well with a simple side salad, guacamole, or sautéed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
9. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the steak with grilled vegetables or a plant-based protein to make the recipe vegetarian.
10. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but be sure to adjust the cooking time, as brown rice usually takes longer to cook. You may need to add extra liquid as well.
Conclusion
Steak & Queso Rice is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a fun dish for taco night, or a complete family meal, this Tex-Mex recipe is a winner. With juicy steak, creamy queso, and perfectly seasoned rice, it’s a guaranteed hit that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy the fiesta in your kitchen!
Print
Steak & Queso Rice: A Tex-Mex Fiesta at Home
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
Description
Steak & Queso Rice is a flavorful Tex-Mex dish featuring juicy sirloin steak, creamy Pancho’s White Queso, and seasoned rice. It’s a quick, satisfying meal perfect for busy nights or a special dinner, with a balance of hearty and creamy textures.
Ingredients
1 cup long grain white rice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon minced garlic
2 cups chicken broth
8 ounces tomato sauce
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried cilantro
1 pound sirloin steak, sliced
2 tablespoons butter
Montreal steak spice (to taste)
Pancho’s White Queso (enough for drizzling)
Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnishing
Flour tortillas for serving
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the rice and stir until lightly browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
- Pour in chicken broth and tomato sauce. Stir in salt, pepper, cumin, and dried cilantro. Bring to a boil, then lower heat, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes until the rice is tender.
- In a separate skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sirloin steak, seasoning with Montreal steak spice. Cook to desired doneness, then remove and set aside.
- Once the rice is done, remove it from heat and let it sit for 10 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork.
- Assemble the dish by layering the cooked rice on a platter, topping with the steak, and drizzling with Pancho’s White Queso. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with warm tortillas on the side.
Notes
Add sautéed bell peppers or corn for extra flavor and texture.
For a spicier version, include jalapeños or chili flakes in the rice or steak.
Substitute the steak with ground beef or grilled chicken for variation.
Ensure Pancho’s White Queso is gluten-free for dietary restrictions.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: undefined
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
