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Steak & Queso Basmati Rice Bowl Recipe

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4.4 from 21 reviews

A savory and comforting Steak & Queso Rice recipe combining tender sirloin steak, aromatic basmati rice cooked in a flavorful tomato and chicken broth base, topped with creamy white queso and fresh cilantro. Perfect for a hearty family meal, served optionally with warm flour tortillas.

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Rice and Base

  • 2 cups Basmati Rice
  • 2 ½ cups Chicken Broth
  • 1 cube Chicken Bouillon
  • 1 can (about 14 oz) Crushed Tomatoes (or diced tomatoes or tomato sauce as alternatives)
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 1 small Onion (finely chopped, optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • ½ teaspoon Cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil

Steak

  • 1 pound Sirloin Steak (cut into thin strips)
  • 2 tablespoons Butter
  • Montreal steak seasoning (to taste)

Toppings and Garnish

  • White Queso (for topping)
  • Fresh Cilantro (for garnish)
  • Flour tortillas (optional for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch and prevent sticky rice.
  2. Sauté Garlic and Onion: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion (if using) and sauté for 2-3 minutes until onion is translucent and garlic fragrant.
  3. Toast the Rice: Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir continuously for about 2 minutes to lightly toast it and absorb the flavors of garlic and onion.
  4. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Crumble the chicken bouillon cube into the mixture, then add paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine fully.
  5. Cook the Rice: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover with a lid and let simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  6. Rest and Fluff: Remove skillet from heat and let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes to settle and become fluffy.
  7. Prep Steak: While rice cooks, season sirloin strips evenly on both sides with Montreal steak seasoning.
  8. Cook Steak: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter together in a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add steak strips and cook 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or to desired doneness.
  9. Add Steak to Pan: Fluff the cooked rice and then add the cooked steak on top. Generously drizzle white queso over the steak and rice.
  10. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and optionally serve with warm flour tortillas on the side.

Notes

  • Rinsing basmati rice is essential to avoid overly sticky rice.
  • Adjust seasoning and spice level with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
  • Steak cooking time can be modified depending on preferred doneness.
  • Flour tortillas add a nice touch for wrapping or scooping.
  • White queso can be substituted with any creamy melting cheese if desired.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion