Cheesy Steak & Queso Rice (Print version)

Tender steak, fluffy rice, peppers, tomatoes, and creamy queso all folded together in one hearty skillet dinner.

# Ingredients:

For the steak

01 - 1 lb (450 g) sirloin steak, thinly sliced across the grain
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
03 - 1 teaspoon chili powder
04 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
05 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
08 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the queso rice

09 - 1 small yellow onion, diced
10 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
11 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
12 - 3 cups (480 g) cooked long-grain white rice
13 - 1 can (10 oz / 283 g) diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained
14 - 3/4 cup (180 ml) evaporated milk
15 - 4 oz (115 g) white American cheese, torn or chopped
16 - 1 cup (115 g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
17 - 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
18 - 2 scallions, thinly sliced
19 - 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro, optional
20 - Sliced jalapenos, optional

# Instructions:

01 - Pat the steak dry. Toss it with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
02 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon olive oil and sear the steak for 2-3 minutes, stirring once or twice, until browned. Transfer to a plate.
03 - Add the onion and bell pepper to the same skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and lightly browned, then stir in the garlic for 30 seconds.
04 - Add the cooked rice and drained tomatoes with green chiles. Stir until the rice is hot and evenly mixed with the vegetables.
05 - Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the evaporated milk, then add the American cheese and Monterey Jack a handful at a time, stirring until smooth before adding more.
06 - Fold the steak and any resting juices back into the skillet. Stir in lime juice, taste for salt, and top with scallions, cilantro, and jalapenos if using. Serve hot.

# Good to know:

01 - Best served right away while the queso is smooth and glossy.
02 - Use leftover rice for the fluffiest texture.
03 - Add a splash of milk when reheating leftovers.

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