Cheesy Steak Rice Bowl (Printable Version)

Juicy steak, garlic rice, and silky queso sauce combine for a filling, flavorful Tex-Mex inspired bowl.

# Everything You’ll Need:

→ Steak

01 - 450 g flank or sirloin steak
02 - 1 tbsp olive oil
03 - 1 tsp paprika
04 - 2 tsp ground cumin
05 - 1 tsp garlic powder
06 - Salt and pepper, to taste

→ Queso Sauce

07 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
08 - 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
09 - 1 1/2 cups whole milk
10 - 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
11 - 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
12 - 1/2 tsp ground cumin
13 - 1 tsp chili powder
14 - Salt and pepper, to taste

→ Rice

15 - 1 cup long-grain white rice
16 - 1 tbsp olive oil
17 - 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
18 - 1 tsp garlic powder
19 - Salt, to taste

→ Optional Garnishes

20 - Fresh cilantro, chopped
21 - Sliced avocado
22 - Sliced jalapeños
23 - Lime wedges

# Steps to Cook:

01 - Pat steak dry and rub with olive oil. Season with paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let sit while preparing the rice.
02 - Rinse rice under cold water. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add rice and garlic powder, stirring for 2 minutes. Add broth and salt, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes. Remove from heat and rest covered for 5 minutes before fluffing.
03 - Heat a skillet over high heat. Sear steak 4–5 minutes per side or until desired doneness. Let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
04 - In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add milk and bring to a simmer. Gradually stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted. Add cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and glossy.
05 - Place rice into bowls, top with sliced steak, and ladle queso sauce over. Garnish with cilantro, avocado, jalapeños, and lime if desired. Serve hot.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Letting the steak rest helps retain its juices and ensures tenderness.
02 - Freshly shredded cheese yields a smoother, creamier queso sauce.
03 - Adjust spice levels to preference with extra chili powder or hot sauce.
04 - Ensure broth and seasoning mixes are labeled gluten-free if needed.