Queso Steak and Rice (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Steak Seasoning

01 - 450g (1 pound) of flank or sirloin steak
02 - 1 tsp garlic powder
03 - Freshly ground black pepper and salt to taste
04 - 2 tsp ground cumin
05 - 1 tbsp olive oil
06 - 1 tsp paprika

→ Queso Mix

07 - 2 cloves garlic, minced fresh
08 - ½ tsp cumin powder
09 - 1 tsp chili powder
10 - 1½ cups whole milk
11 - Salt and black pepper to add flavor
12 - 2 cups freshly grated cheddar
13 - 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
14 - 2 tbsp butter

→ Rice Components

15 - 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
16 - 2 cups water or chicken broth (low-sodium)
17 - 1 tbsp olive oil
18 - Salt as needed
19 - 1 tsp garlic powder

→ Extras for Serving

20 - Chopped fresh cilantro
21 - Sliced jalapeños
22 - Cut lime wedges
23 - Sliced ripe avocado

# Instructions:

01 - In a saucepan, coat rinsed rice with olive oil and garlic powder, toasting for 1-2 minutes. Add water or broth, bring to a rolling boil, cover, then lower to simmer for 18-20 mins. Keep covered until serving.
02 - Dry the steak completely with paper towels, drizzle oil all over, then rub in cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper on both sides.
03 - On a piping-hot skillet, cook steak for 4-5 minutes per side, depending on how done you like it (4 mins for medium-rare, 5 mins for medium).
04 - Move the steak onto a board and let it sit untouched for 5-10 minutes. Using a sharp knife, carve into thin slices against the grain.
05 - Using the same skillet, melt butter on medium heat. Saute garlic till fragrant, about a minute. Slowly add milk, letting it simmer. Stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack bit by bit until smooth. Toss in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, tasting as you go.
06 - Lay rice on your plate. Top with steak slices. Pour queso over generously, then sprinkle cilantro, jalapeños, avocado slices, and lime wedges. Serve right away.