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Steak and Queso Rice Skillet Recipe

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4.2 from 14 reviews

A flavorful and hearty Steak & Queso Rice dish combining tender sirloin steak with aromatic basmati rice simmered in a savory tomato and chicken broth mixture, topped with creamy white queso and fresh cilantro. Perfectly seasoned and served with optional warm flour tortillas for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Rice and Broth

  • 2 cups Basmati Rice
  • 2 ½ cups Chicken Broth
  • 1 cube Chicken Bouillon
  • 1 can (about 14 oz) Crushed Tomatoes (or diced tomatoes or tomato sauce as alternatives)

Aromatics and Seasonings

  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 1 small Onion (finely chopped, optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • ½ teaspoon Cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Montreal steak seasoning (to taste)

Oils and Fats

  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 2 tablespoons Butter

Protein and Toppings

  • 1 pound Sirloin Steak (cut into thin strips)
  • White Queso (for topping)
  • Fresh Cilantro (for garnish)

Optional

  • Flour tortillas (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
  2. Sauté Garlic and Onion: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion (if using) and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and garlic is fragrant.
  3. Toast the Rice: Add the rinsed basmati rice to the skillet and stir continuously for about 2 minutes to lightly toast the rice and absorb the flavors.
  4. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Crumble chicken bouillon cube into the mixture. Add paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper, then stir to combine.
  5. Cook the Rice: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  6. Rest and Fluff: Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes to allow the rice to fluff up.
  7. Prep Steak: Season sirloin steak strips generously with Montreal steak seasoning on both sides.
  8. Cook Steak: In a separate skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned steak strips and cook about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or to your desired doneness.
  9. Add Steak to Pan: Fluff the cooked rice and arrange the cooked steak over the top. Drizzle generously with white queso.
  10. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve alongside warm flour tortillas if desired.

Notes

  • Rinsing basmati rice removes excess starch which prevents clumping.
  • Use diced tomatoes or tomato sauce as substitutes if crushed tomatoes are unavailable.
  • Adjust steak cooking time based on preferred doneness.
  • Flour tortillas are optional but complement the dish well for a complete meal.
  • For spicier flavor, add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the rice mixture.