If you’re looking for a hearty and flavorful dish, look no further than this steak & queso rice recipe. It’s a delightful combination of tender steak, creamy queso, and fluffy rice, all packed with vibrant flavors. This dish is not only satisfying but also quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a fun weekend meal with friends and family. Get ready to impress your taste buds and those of your guests!
Ingredients
– 1 pound flank steak
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 cup queso cheese sauce
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people, with a preparation time of 15 minutes and a cooking time of 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving contains approximately 500 calories, 30g protein, 20g carbohydrates, 35g fat, and 5g fiber. This nutritional information is based on one serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by seasoning the flank steak with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cumin.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil.
3. Once hot, sear the steak for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until it reaches your desired doneness.
4. Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes.
5. In the same skillet, sauté diced onion and bell pepper until softened.
6. Add black beans to the skillet and stir until heated through.
7. Prepare the cooked rice according to package instructions if not already done.
8. Slice the steak thinly against the grain.
9. In a large bowl, combine the rice, sautéed vegetables, and black beans.
10. Serve the rice mixture topped with sliced steak and drizzled queso cheese sauce.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute flank steak with chicken breast or shrimp for a different protein. You can also use any type of cheese sauce if you prefer a milder flavor.
Serving and Pairings
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of guacamole, salsa, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with tortilla chips for an extra crunch.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through. This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to store the queso separately to maintain its texture.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the steak can make it tough; use a meat thermometer for best results.
- Not letting the steak rest can cause juices to escape, making it dry.
- Using too much seasoning can overpower the dish; start with less and adjust as needed.
- Skipping the sautéing step for vegetables can result in a lack of flavor.
- Using cold queso straight from the fridge can make it hard to drizzle; warm before serving.
Helpful Tips
- Marinate the steak for a few hours for enhanced flavor.
- Use leftover rice for a quicker preparation time.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for added freshness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute flank steak with chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the protein used.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating jalapeños or a spicy salsa into the rice mixture or drizzling hot sauce over the top before serving.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the rice and steak in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and combine them with the queso right before serving for the best texture.
What kind of rice works best?
While any rice works, long-grain white rice or brown rice is recommended for a fluffy texture. You can also use cilantro-lime rice for added flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free cheese sauce and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
This steak & queso rice recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will satisfy your cravings. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized to fit your taste preferences. Whether for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite!
Steak & Queso Rice
Ingredients
- 1 pound flank steak
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup queso cheese sauce
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 1 small onion diced
- 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Season the flank steak with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cumin.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add oil.
- Sear the steak for 5-6 minutes on each side until desired doneness.
- Remove the steak and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- In the same skillet, sauté onion and bell pepper until softened.
- Add black beans and stir until heated through.
- Prepare cooked rice according to package instructions.
- Slice the steak thinly against the grain.
- Combine rice, sautéed vegetables, and black beans in a large bowl.
- Serve topped with sliced steak and queso cheese sauce.
