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Mouthwatering Steak & Queso Rice

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 19 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 480 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak (trimmed and sliced into strips)
  • 1 cup queso cheese (Monterey Jack, cheddar, or your favorite blend)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, cooked
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (red or yellow for color)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Optional toppings:

  • Fresh cilantro (chopped)
  • Sliced avocado
  • Sour cream or crema drizzle
  • Extra queso for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Prep the Ingredients
    Dice your onion and bell pepper, mince the garlic, and have your queso cheese ready. You’ll want everything prepped before the heat starts — this recipe moves fast once the pan’s hot.
  • Sear the Steak
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your steak strips generously with salt and pepper, then sear each side for about 4–5 minutes until browned and juicy. Remove from the skillet and let rest. (Don’t skip resting — it keeps the meat tender.)
  • Sauté the Veggies
    In the same skillet, toss in the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened and aromatic, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds more — just until fragrant.
  • Add Rice & Spices
    Stir in your cooked rice, paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Mix until every grain is lightly coated with the spices and veggies — it should smell irresistible at this point.
  • Melt in the Queso
    Lower the heat to medium. Gradually add your queso cheese, stirring continuously until melted and creamy. If it feels too thick, add a splash of warm milk or broth to loosen it up.
  • Combine & Serve
    Slice your rested steak and add it back into the skillet. Toss gently until everything is coated in cheesy, spiced goodness. Serve hot, topped with cilantro, avocado, and a dollop of sour cream.