Step-by-step instructions
Let’s dive into the cooking! Follow these easy steps to get that cheesy goodness on your table:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add rinsed rice and toast for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth, tomato sauce, cumin, dried cilantro, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- While the rice cooks, heat a separate skillet over medium-high. Melt the butter and add steak pieces. Season generously with Montreal steak seasoning. Sear until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from heat.
- Layer the steak over the tomato rice in the skillet. Drizzle generously with warmed white queso.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the top. Serve this dish as a skillet meal, or scoop into flour tortillas for cheesy steak wraps.
Best ways to enjoy it
This Cheesy Steak Queso Rice Skillet is delicious served straight from the pan, but you can elevate it even further! Consider adding a side of guacamole or fresh salsa for that extra burst of flavor. Alternatively, serve it with a simple green salad to balance the richness of the quesillo. The combination of textures and flavors will leave everyone asking for seconds!
How to store
To keep your leftovers fresh, allow the skillet to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’s best enjoyed within 3-4 days when stored in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to bring back its creamy texture. If you’d like to freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container and it should hold up well for about 2 months.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are some tips to ensure your Cheesy Steak Queso Rice Skillet turns out fabulous every time:
- For added flavor in your rice, consider toasting the raw rice in the olive oil with the onions, garlic, and spices.
- Always let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking for more tender bites.
- Feel free to customize the veggies; bell peppers and corn would also enhance the dish beautifully.
Creative twists
Want to shake things up? Here are a few variations you might consider:
- Substitute the sirloin for chicken or shrimp if you’re craving something different.
- Swap out the white queso for a spicy cheese dip to give it a kick!
- For a vegetarian option, replace the steak with black beans or cooked lentils.
FAQs
What’s the prep time for this recipe?
The prep time is relatively quick—about 10 minutes—to chop your ingredients and start cooking. Overall, you can have this delightful dish on the table in approximately 30 minutes.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice! However, keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid, so adjust the chicken broth accordingly.
How do I prevent my rice from getting mushy?
Make sure to rinse your rice before cooking. This helps remove excess starch, which can lead to mushy rice. Also, follow the suggested cooking times for best results.
Now that you have the details on making a scrumptious Cheesy Steak Queso Rice Skillet, it’s time to get cooking! Your taste buds will thank you.
