Steak with Queso and Rice (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Steak

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

→ For the Queso Sauce

07 - 1½ cups whole milk
08 - Salt and pepper, to taste
09 - ½ tsp ground cumin
10 - 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
11 - 2 tbsp butter
12 - 1 tsp chili powder
13 - 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
14 - 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

→ For the Rice

15 - 2 cups broth or water
16 - Salt, as needed
17 - 1 tbsp olive oil
18 - 1 cup long-grain white rice
19 - 1 tsp garlic powder

→ Optional Garnishes

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

# Instructions:

01 - Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in milk and bring to a light simmer.
02 - Rinse rice under cold water to remove starch. Heat olive oil in a pot, stir in rice and garlic powder, and toast for 2 minutes. Add broth or water, bring to a boil, cover, and simmer on low for 18-20 minutes until tender.
03 - Let the cooked steak rest for 5-10 minutes, then slice it thinly against the grain to preserve tenderness.
04 - Pat steak dry with paper towels, rub with olive oil, and season with paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Press seasonings into the meat.
05 - Gradually add shredded cheeses to the skillet, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
06 - Top the finished dish with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, avocado, and lime wedges. Serve immediately while the queso sauce is warm and the steak is juicy.
07 - Heat a skillet over high heat and cook seasoned steak for 4-5 minutes per side, based on thickness and desired doneness.
08 - Portion rice onto plates, layer with steak slices, and drizzle queso sauce over the top for a balanced, flavorful dish.

# Notes:

01 - Let the steak rest before slicing to retain its juices.
02 - Rinsing rice removes excess starch, resulting in fluffier grains.