Cheesy Steak & Queso Rice

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Absolutely! Here’s a full, detailed, “big” recipe write-up for your Cheesy Steak & Queso Rice with all the requested sections:

🧀🥩 Cheesy Steak & Queso Rice 🌶️🔥

Introduction

Cheesy Steak & Queso Rice is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that combines tender steak strips, colorful bell peppers, and fluffy rice, all enveloped in a creamy, spicy pepper jack queso. Inspired by Tex-Mex flavors, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, casual family dinners, or entertaining friends who love bold flavors. Its melty cheese, tender meat, and vibrant veggies make every bite a fiesta in your mouth.

This recipe is not just delicious—it’s also a complete meal in one pot, balancing protein, carbs, and vegetables with a kick of spice. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for those craving something indulgent yet easy to prepare.

📝 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

For the Steak:

  • 1 lb flank steak or skirt steak, thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp taco seasoning
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Rice & Veggies:

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups beef or chicken broth
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Queso Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
  • Salt, to taste

Optional Garnishes:

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Sliced jalapeños
  • Lime wedges

Instructions

1. Prepare the Steak

  1. Toss the steak strips with taco seasoning and a pinch of salt.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Sear the steak in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until browned but slightly pink in the center. Remove and set aside.

2. Cook the Rice & Veggies

  1. In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant (1–2 minutes).
  2. Add the bell peppers and cook until slightly softened (3–4 minutes).
  3. Stir in rice, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Toast rice for 1–2 minutes.
  4. Pour in broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

3. Make the Queso Sauce

  1. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until lightly golden.
  3. Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until smooth and slightly thickened.
  4. Remove from heat, then stir in cheeses and cayenne pepper until fully melted and creamy.

4. Combine Everything

  1. Gently fold the cooked steak and vegetables into the rice.
  2. Pour the queso sauce over the mixture and stir to coat evenly.
  3. Heat everything together for 1–2 minutes, adjusting seasoning if needed.

5. Serve

  1. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and a squeeze of lime.
  2. Serve hot and enjoy immediately.

History & Origins

Cheesy steak dishes have roots in Tex-Mex cuisine, blending American comfort food with Mexican flavors. Queso, the creamy cheese sauce, became popular in the southwestern United States as a way to bring cheese and chili together in a smooth, pourable form. Flank and skirt steak are traditional cuts for fajitas, making this dish a creative “one-pot fajita” style meal that’s quicker and simpler.

Benefits

  • Protein-packed: Steak provides high-quality protein for muscle repair and energy.
  • Veggie-rich: Bell peppers are loaded with vitamins A, C, and antioxidants.
  • Balanced carbs: Rice gives long-lasting energy.
  • Mood-boosting: Cheese contains compounds like tyrosine that can improve mood and satisfaction.

Formation & Methods

  • Layering Flavors: Searing steak first develops the Maillard reaction, enhancing flavor.
  • Queso Technique: Making a roux (butter + flour) ensures smooth, lump-free cheese sauce.
  • One-Pan Integration: Cooking rice and veggies in the same pan as the steak absorbs the savory steak juices for maximum taste.

Nutrition (Approximate per serving)

  • Calories: 500–550 kcal
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Fiber: 3–4 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg

Values may vary based on exact cheese, steak, and broth used.

Conclusion

Cheesy Steak & Queso Rice is a comforting, indulgent dish that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for convenience. With its creamy queso, tender steak, and colorful vegetables, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers.

For Lovers of Flavor 🌶️❤️

If you’re a fan of bold Tex-Mex flavors, this dish can be customized:

  • Add sautéed mushrooms or corn for extra texture.
  • Swap pepper jack for smoked gouda for a different cheesy twist.
  • Top with avocado slices or hot sauce for added richness and heat.

This is more than just dinner—it’s a cheesy, spicy, love-at-first-bite experience!

If you want, I can also create a “step-by-step illustrated version” showing the steak, veggies, and queso stages visually—it makes this recipe even easier to follow and more appetizing.

Do you want me to do that?

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