Steak Queso Rice Bowl (Printable Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Steak

01 - 1 lb steak strips (sirloin, flank, or ribeye)
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1 teaspoon salt
04 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
05 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
07 - 1/2 teaspoon cumin

→ Flavorful Rice

08 - 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
09 - 2 cups beef broth
10 - 1 tablespoon butter
11 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
12 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
13 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

→ Queso Sauce

14 - 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
15 - 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese
16 - 3/4 cup heavy cream
17 - 2 tablespoons cream cheese
18 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
19 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

→ Optional Toppings

20 - 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
21 - 1 jalapeño, sliced
22 - 1 tablespoon sour cream
23 - 1/2 cup diced tomatoes

# How to Make It:

01 - In a medium saucepan, combine beef broth, butter, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil. Stir in the rice, reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes or until the liquid is fully absorbed. Fluff gently with a fork and keep warm.
02 - Season steak strips evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak in a single layer for 3 to 4 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove from pan and let rest for 5 minutes to retain juices.
03 - In a small saucepan over low heat, gently warm the heavy cream. Add the cream cheese and stir until fully melted and smooth. Gradually incorporate shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, whisking constantly until creamy. Season with garlic powder and cayenne pepper if desired. Keep the sauce warm on low heat.
04 - Divide the cooked rice between serving bowls. Arrange steak strips over the rice and drizzle with generous amounts of warm queso sauce.
05 - Garnish each bowl with chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeño, or a spoonful of sour cream as desired. Serve immediately.

# Additional Tips:

01 - Select high-quality steak cuts such as ribeye, sirloin, or flank for optimal tenderness.
02 - Allow cooked steak to rest before slicing to preserve juices and enhance flavor.
03 - Maintain low heat when preparing queso sauce to prevent separation and achieve a smooth texture.