Description
This Steak & Queso Rice is a bold and flavorful dish that combines tender sirloin steak, seasoned rice, and creamy white queso for a delicious twist on taco night. Made with aromatic spices, garlic, and a rich tomato base, this dish is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for a family dinner. Serve it with warm flour tortillas for the ultimate comfort meal!
Ingredients
Units
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For the Rice
- 2 cups Basmati rice, rinsed
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 chicken bouillon cube
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes (or diced tomatoes/tomato sauce)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Steak
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into thin strips
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- Montreal steak seasoning, to taste
For Serving
- White queso, for topping
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Flour tortillas (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Rice
- Rinse the rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion (if using). Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Toast the rice: Add the rinsed rice and stir continuously for 2 minutes to lightly toast it.
- Add liquids & seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Crumble the chicken bouillon cube into the mixture. Stir in paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the rice: Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Rest & fluff: Remove from heat, let sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
Prepare the Steak
- Season the steak: Generously coat sirloin steak strips with Montreal steak seasoning.
- Cook the steak: Heat olive oil and butter in a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak strips and cook for 4-5 minutes per side (or until your desired doneness).
Assemble & Serve
- Combine: Fluff the cooked rice and place the cooked steak over it.
- Drizzle queso: Pour warm white queso generously over the steak and rice.
- Garnish & serve: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve with warm flour tortillas on the side if desired.
Notes
- Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
- Steak Doneness: Adjust cooking time based on how well you like your steak done.
- Rice Variation: You can substitute jasmine rice or long-grain white rice, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Extra Spice: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for heat.