Easy Skillet Steak and Creamy Queso Rice
This Skillet Steak and Queso Rice is a comforting, savory, and utterly delicious meal that feels like a warm hug. It's surprisingly easy, comes together quicker than you might think, and is perfect for busy weeknights.
Equipment
- Medium skillet
- Saucepan
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
Ingredients
For the Steak
- 1 lb flank or sirloin steak approx. 450 g
- 1 tsp paprika
- salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp olive oil for rubbing on the steak
- 1 tsp garlic powder
For the Queso Sauce
- 1.5 cups whole milk
- salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 0.5 tsp ground cumin
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 2 cloves garlic finely minced
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
For the Rice
- 2 cups broth or water
- salt as needed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Optional Garnishes
- fresh chopped cilantro for garnish
- lime wedges for garnish
- sliced avocado for garnish
- sliced jalapeños for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Start the Queso Base: In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and stir for about a minute until fragrant. Pour in the whole milk and gently bring it to a simmer.
- Step 2: Cook the Rice: While the milk heats, rinse the rice under cold water until clear. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a saucepan, add the rinsed rice and 1 tsp garlic powder, and toast for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Pour in the broth or water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 18 to 20 minutes until tender and liquid is absorbed. Let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes off the heat before fluffing.
- Step 3: Prep the Steak: Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Rub it all over with 1 tbsp olive oil. In a small bowl, mix paprika, 2 tsp cumin, 1 tsp garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this spice mix all over the steak, pressing it in gently.
- Step 4: Cook the Steak: Get a large skillet very hot over medium-high or high heat. Carefully lay the seasoned steak in the hot skillet. Sear for 4 to 5 minutes per side, adjusting time for desired doneness (4 mins/side for medium-rare, 5 mins/side for medium).
- Step 5: Rest and Slice the Steak: Transfer the cooked steak to a cutting board. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. After resting, slice it thinly against the grain.
- Step 6: Finish the Queso Sauce: Return to the simmering milk base (keep heat low). Gradually add shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, a handful at a time, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. Stir in chili powder, 0.5 tsp ground cumin, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 7: Prepare Garnishes (Optional): If using, chop cilantro, cut lime wedges, slice avocado, and slice jalapeños.
- Step 8: Assemble and Serve: Divide the cooked rice among plates or bowls. Arrange sliced steak on top of the rice. Generously spoon the queso sauce over everything. Garnish with prepared optional toppings. Serve immediately.
Notes
Substitutions & Additions: You can use skirt steak, flat iron, or tenderloin strips for the steak, adjusting cooking time. Feel free to swap or mix cheeses like Pepper Jack or Colby. 2% milk can be used but may result in a slightly less rich sauce. Adjust spice level with cayenne pepper or hot sauce. Add sautéed onions, peppers, corn, or black beans. You can use brown rice (adjust cooking time) or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Tips for Success: Pat the steak dry for a better sear. Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking steak. Always rest the steak after cooking for tenderness. Shred block cheese yourself for a smoother queso sauce. Add cheese gradually to the sauce, stirring until melted. If queso thickens, gently reheat and add a splash of milk to loosen.
How to Store It: Store rice, steak, and queso separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat rice and steak in the microwave or stovetop. Reheat queso gently over low heat or in short microwave bursts, stirring and adding a tiny splash of milk if needed.