Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season steak strips with salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Let sit for 15 minutes at room temperature.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add seasoned steak strips and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until nicely browned. Remove steak and set aside.
- In the same pan, add diced onion and bell pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add rice to the pan and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to coat with the vegetable mixture and pan drippings.
- Pour in beef broth gradually, stirring well. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- While rice cooks, prepare the queso sauce. In a medium saucepan, heat heavy cream over medium-low heat. Gradually add cubed American cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese to the cream mixture, continuing to stir until completely melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once rice is cooked, stir in butter and return the cooked steak strips to the pan, mixing gently to distribute evenly.
- Pour the warm queso sauce over the steak and rice mixture, stirring carefully to coat everything evenly.
- Top with diced tomatoes and fresh cilantro before serving immediately while hot.
Notes
For extra flavor, let the steak marinate in the seasonings for up to 2 hours. The queso can be made ahead and reheated gently. Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 3 days.
