Steak Queso with Fluffy Rice (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Steak

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

→ For the Queso Sauce

07 - 1½ cups whole milk
08 - Salt and pepper, to taste
09 - ½ teaspoon ground cumin
10 - 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
11 - 2 tablespoons butter
12 - 1 teaspoon 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 tablespoon olive oil
18 - 1 cup long-grain white rice
19 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder

→ Optional Garnishes

20 - Fresh cilantro, chopped
21 - Wedges of lime
22 - Slices of avocado
23 - Cut jalapeños

# Instructions:

01 - Dry the steak with paper towels and rub it with olive oil. Sprinkle both sides with paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, pressing the seasoning into the meat.
02 - Heat a large skillet until very hot. Cook the seasoned steak for 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on thickness and desired doneness. For medium-rare, cook for 4 minutes per side; for medium, cook 5 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing into thin strips across the grain.
03 - Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat, then stir in the rice and garlic powder to coat. Toast the grains lightly for 2 minutes. Add broth or water, bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low for 18-20 minutes until soft.
04 - Using the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in milk and bring to a light simmer. Slowly add shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, one handful at a time, stirring until fully melted and smooth. Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
05 - Place a serving of cooked rice on each plate. Top with steak strips and drizzle warm queso sauce over everything. Garnish with fresh cilantro, jalapeños, avocado slices, and lime wedges. Serve immediately.