Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Queso Steak Fajita Skillet is the perfect one-pan dish that combines the flavors of sizzling fajitas with creamy, melted queso. It’s simple, quick, and packed with savory goodness. From the tender steak and perfectly cooked vegetables to the cheesy goodness of Gordo’s cheese dip, each bite is a satisfying blend of flavors. It’s not only a great weeknight dinner but also a meal the whole family will love!
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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2 cups Minute Rice
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2 cups chicken broth
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1 packet fajita seasoning
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8 oz tomato sauce
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3 bell peppers, sliced
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½ yellow onion, diced
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2 tablespoon olive oil
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1 lb top sirloin, sliced into strips
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Gordo’s cheese dip (use as much as you like)
Directions
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Cook the Vegetables & Steak:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sliced bell peppers. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, just until they begin to soften. Next, toss in the steak strips and sprinkle with the fajita seasoning. Sear the steak, stirring occasionally, until it’s cooked to your liking. -
Make the Rice:
Pour in the Minute Rice, chicken broth, and tomato sauce. Stir well so everything is evenly combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook according to your rice package instructions (if you use a different kind of rice, you may need to adjust the liquid and cook time). -
Add the Queso:
Once the rice is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed, generously spoon Gordo’s cheese dip over the skillet. Let it melt into the hot rice and steak. -
Serve:
Scoop onto plates and enjoy immediately, while it’s hot and cheesy!
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 5
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Cook Time: 20 minutes
Variations
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Add more veggies: You can include other vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or corn to add variety and texture.
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Use a different protein: If you prefer chicken or shrimp, feel free to substitute the steak with your choice of protein.
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Spicy kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a bit of hot sauce to make it spicier.
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Vegetarian version: Replace the steak with extra vegetables, beans, or tofu to make it a vegetarian-friendly dish.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store any leftover Queso Steak Fajita Skillet in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of rice, but make sure to adjust the liquid and cooking time according to the rice package instructions.
2. Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes, you can add diced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce to give it an extra kick!
3. Can I substitute the Gordo’s cheese dip?
You can use any queso cheese dip, or even make a homemade cheese sauce, but Gordo’s offers a creamy, smooth option that works perfectly here.
4. Can I use chicken instead of steak?
Absolutely! You can swap out the steak for chicken breast or thighs. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
5. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
6. Can I make this recipe in advance?
You can prepare the rice and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just add the cheese dip and heat everything through when you're ready to serve.
7. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the fajita seasoning you use is gluten-free, this dish should be naturally gluten-free.
8. Can I add beans to this recipe?
Yes, black beans or pinto beans would make a great addition, adding extra fiber and flavor to the dish.
9. What side dishes go well with this recipe?
You could serve this with a side of chips and salsa, a simple green salad, or some fresh guacamole to complete the meal.
10. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this vegetarian, simply omit the steak and add more veggies, beans, or tofu as your protein.
Conclusion
This Queso Steak Fajita Skillet is the ultimate comfort food with its combination of tender steak, vibrant vegetables, flavorful rice, and creamy queso. It’s quick to prepare, customizable, and perfect for busy weeknights or a fun family meal. You can also make it your own by adjusting the ingredients and spice levels. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or as part of a larger spread, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Queso Steak Fajita Skillet
A flavorful, one-pan dish combining tender steak, sautéed vegetables, and creamy melted queso, served with rice and seasoned with fajita spices.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
2 cups Minute Rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 packet fajita seasoning
8 oz tomato sauce
3 bell peppers, sliced
½ yellow onion, diced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb top sirloin, sliced into strips
Gordo’s cheese dip (use as much as you like)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sliced bell peppers, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add the steak strips and sprinkle with fajita seasoning. Sear the steak, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your preferred doneness.
- Pour in the Minute Rice, chicken broth, and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook the rice according to package instructions, adjusting for different types of rice if necessary.
- Once the rice is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed, spoon Gordo’s cheese dip over the skillet, allowing it to melt into the hot rice and steak.
- Scoop the mixture onto plates and serve immediately while it’s hot and cheesy.
Notes
- For added texture and flavor, include other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or corn.
- Feel free to substitute chicken or shrimp for the steak if preferred.
- If you like spice, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- For a vegetarian version, use extra vegetables, beans, or tofu instead of steak.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
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