Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, with the fragrance of sizzling peppers and steak dancing in the air, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The Queso Steak Fajita Skillet was becoming my go-to recipe—a delightful fusion of Tex-Mex flavors that whips up in just 30 minutes. This one-pan wonder not only brings ease to busy weeknights but also transforms casual gatherings into vibrant feasts. Imagine juicy sirloin strips mingling with colorful bell peppers, all tucked beneath a glorious layer of creamy cheese, just waiting to ooze onto your plate. Not only is this dish a serious crowd-pleaser, but it’s also a gluten-free option for those who need it. Curious to know how to make this cozy comfort food that’ll have everyone asking for seconds? Let’s dive in! Why is this Queso Steak Fajita Skillet a must-try? Simplicity at Its Finest: This one-pan dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Flavor Explosion: The combination of juicy sirloin, colorful bell peppers, and creamy cheese creates a mouthwatering experience that will have your taste buds dancing. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for a cozy family dinner or a lively gathering, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Versatile Options: Feel free to replace steak with chicken for a lighter twist, or make it vegetarian with black beans and zucchini. Ready to spice things up? Pair this all-in-one meal with crispy tortilla chips or Grilled Steak Elote Tacos for an even more exciting spread! Queso Steak Fajita Skillet Ingredients For the Steak and Veggies • Top Sirloin (1 lb) – Tender and juicy, making it the star of the dish; you can also try skirt steak or flank steak for a different texture. • Yellow Onion (1/2, chopped) – Adds sweetness and depth; experiment with red onion for a milder flavor. • Bell Peppers (3, cut into strips) – Infuses color and sweetness into the dish; sweet mini peppers or poblano work beautifully as substitutions. For the Cooking Base • Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – Essential for sautéing, adding richness; remember to heat it over medium-high for best results. • Chicken Broth (2 cups) – Provides moisture and packs in flavor; opting for vegetable broth lightens the dish’s profile. • Tomato Sauce (8 oz) – Offers acidity and a hint of sweetness; go for canned or homemade based on convenience. • Minute Rice (2 cups) – Quick-cooking rice that absorbs the flavors superbly; adjust liquid if using longer grain rice. • Fajita Seasoning (1 packet) – Brings the spices that give this dish its signature flair; add chili powder or jalapeños for more kick. For the Cheesy Finish • Velveeta Cheese Dip (8 oz or as desired) – Creates a wonderfully creamy finish; switch it up with Monterey Jack, shredded cheddar, or queso blanco if you prefer. Ready to whip up this Queso Steak Fajita Skillet that’s as comforting as it is satisfying? Let’s keep the cooking magic rolling! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Queso Steak Fajita Skillet Step 1: Sauté the Veggies In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add ½ chopped yellow onion and 3 sliced bell peppers, sautéing for about 5 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. Stir occasionally, allowing colors to brighten and flavors to meld, creating a vibrant base for your Queso Steak Fajita Skillet. Step 2: Cook the Steak Introduce 1 pound of top sirloin, cut into strips, to the skillet. Sprinkle with one packet of fajita seasoning and cook for around 4-6 minutes, stirring frequently until the steak is browned and reaches your desired doneness. The meat should be juicy, with a nice sear—perfectly complementing the sautéed veggies. Step 3: Add Sauce and Rice Pour in 8 ounces of tomato sauce and 2 cups of chicken broth, stirring to combine all the flavors in the skillet. Next, add 2 cups of Minute Rice, mixing thoroughly. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, ensuring the rice absorbs the delicious juices and flavors, setting the stage for the ultimate comfort dish. Step 4: Cook the Rice Cover the skillet and let it cook according to the rice package instructions, usually about 5 minutes, until the rice puffs up and absorbs the liquid. Keep an eye on it to prevent sticking, giving the Queso Steak Fajita Skillet a fluffy texture while ensuring it’s not watery—just the right consistency. Step 5: Melt the Cheese Once the rice is fully cooked, spoon 8 ounces of Velveeta cheese dip (or your cheese of choice) over the top. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt beautifully. This gooey finish adds richness and flavor, elevating your Queso Steak Fajita Skillet to a mouthwatering level. Step 6: Serve and Enjoy Finally, remove the skillet from heat, and stir to combine the melted cheese into the mixture. Serve your hot Queso Steak Fajita Skillet immediately, allowing guests to dive into this melty kaleidoscope of flavors, best complemented with warm tortillas or crispy tortilla chips for that perfect bite! What to Serve with Queso Steak Fajita Skillet The delightful melding of flavors in this Tex-Mex dish opens the door to a variety of tasty companions that will elevate your meal experience. Warm Tortillas: Soft, warm tortillas are perfect for scooping up the cheesy goodness, creating a handheld delight everyone will love. Crispy Tortilla Chips: Pairing crunchy chips adds a satisfying textural contrast and perfect for dipping into the creamy cheese and pepper mix. Spanish Rice: Fluffy Spanish rice brings a subtle zing and complements the bold flavors of the skillet, rounding out this vibrant meal. Guacamole: The fresh creaminess of guacamole balances the savory steak and brings a refreshing element that tames the heat. Pico de Gallo: A fresh, zesty salsa brightens the dish with juicy tomatoes and onions, enhancing the overall taste experience. Corn on the Grill: Sweet, charred corn adds a touch of sweetness and pairs beautifully with the smoky steak flavors in your skillet. Elevate your dining experience with these delightful sides that not only complement but enhance the essence of your Queso Steak Fajita Skillet! Queso Steak Fajita Skillet Variations Feel free to sprinkle in your own magic to make this dish uniquely yours! Chicken Option: Substitute chicken breast for steak for a lighter and equally delicious dish. You’ll enjoy the same vibrant flavors with a twist! Vegetarian Delight: Replace the meat with black beans and extra zucchini for a hearty vegetarian option that’s still bursting with Tex-Mex goodness. It’s a flavorful way to eat your veggies! Heat It Up: For those who love a kick, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up. The added heat balances perfectly with the creamy cheese. Rice Alternatives: Swap Minute Rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier option. Both provide delicious results while keeping the dish light and fluffy. Flavor Boost: Infuse more flavor by adding fresh lime juice or cilantro while cooking. The vibrant citrus notes will elevate your Queso Steak Fajita Skillet! Tortilla Transformation: Use warm flour or corn tortillas to turn this dish into delightful fajitas. Tuck in the flavorful steak and peppers and don’t forget your favorite toppings! Cheese Variety: Switch out Velveeta for a blend of shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar for a cheesier, more flavorful finish. The melty results will be oh-so-satisfying! Side Pairing Inspiration: Serve with a refreshing avocado salad or crispy tortilla chips for a complete feast. Pairing with a side adds an extra layer of texture and enjoyment to your meal! Ready to explore the creative possibilities? Try pairing this Queso Steak Fajita Skillet with a side of Grilled Steak Elote for an unforgettable meal! Expert Tips for Queso Steak Fajita Skillet • Perfectly Cooked Steak: Avoid overcooking the steak; check for doneness frequently to keep it juicy and tender. • Rice Consistency: If using longer-grain rice, adjust the liquid amount and keep an eye on cooking time to prevent a watery skillet. • Flavor Infusion: Stir all ingredients thoroughly to ensure each bite is packed with the incredible Tex-Mex flavors characteristic of a great Queso Steak Fajita Skillet. • Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or shredded cheddar for varied flavors and textures. • Prep Ahead: Save time by prepping the steak and veggies in advance; this way, you can whip up this comforting dish even faster on busy nights. How to Store and Freeze Queso Steak Fajita Skillet • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled before sealing to maintain freshness. • Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the skillet in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Portion it out for easy reheating later! • Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth or extra cheese to revive the creamy texture. • Serving Leftovers: This flavorful Queso Steak Fajita Skillet is best enjoyed hot; add fresh toppings like cilantro or jalapeños to elevate the dish! Make Ahead Options This Queso Steak Fajita Skillet is a fantastic meal prep option for busy weeknights! You can prepare the steak and bell pepper mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply sauté the veggies and steak as directed, then let them cool before sealing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For optimal quality, assemble everything without the cheese and rice until right before serving, as this will help maintain the right texture. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, add the rice, broth, and tomato sauce, cook according to package instructions, and top with melted cheese for that gooey finish. You’ll have a delicious, time-saving meal ready in no time! Queso Steak Fajita Skillet Recipe FAQs What type of steak is best for this dish? Absolutely! Top sirloin is ideal for its tenderness and juiciness, giving you that perfect bite. However, you can also substitute with skirt steak or flank steak for a different texture. All work well in this flavorful skillet, so choose what you prefer! How should I store leftovers? Make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to dive back in, simply reheat in the microwave or skillet, adding a splash of broth or a sprinkle of cheese if it seems dry. Can I freeze the Queso Steak Fajita Skillet? Yes, indeed! You can freeze this dish by placing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To do this, divide the skillet into portions for easy reheating later. When you’re ready to enjoy a cozy meal, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding rice and broth if needed for moisture. What if my steak ends up overcooked? Oh no! If your steak is overcooked and isn’t as juicy, try adding a little extra broth or cheese when reheating to help restore moisture. You could also break the meat into smaller pieces and mix it into the cheesy rice for a comforting texture that balances the dish nicely. Is this recipe suitable for my gluten-free friends? Very! Just ensure that the Velveeta cheese dip and fajita seasoning you choose are gluten-free. With the right ingredients, this Queso Steak Fajita Skillet is a wonderful, inclusive dish that can be enjoyed by everyone at the table! Can I make this vegetarian? Absolutely! Replace the steak with black beans and add some extra veggies like zucchini or corn. You can also enhance the flavor with a bit more seasoning. This way, you can still achieve a hearty, satisfying meal that everyone will love. Queso Steak Fajita Skillet: A Cheesy Tex-Mex Treat Queso Steak Fajita Skillet is a delightful Tex-Mex dish featuring sirloin, peppers, and cheese, perfect for busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 peopleCourse: DinnerCuisine: Tex-MexCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Steak and Veggies1 lb Top Sirloin Tender and juicy; skirt steak or flank steak can be used.1/2 Yellow Onion Chopped; can substitute with red onion.3 Bell Peppers Cut into strips; sweet mini peppers or poblano are good substitutes.For the Cooking Base2 tbsp Olive Oil Used for sautéing.2 cups Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be used.8 oz Tomato Sauce Canned or homemade.2 cups Minute Rice Adjust liquid if using longer grain rice.1 packet Fajita Seasoning Add chili powder or jalapeños for more spice.For the Cheesy Finish8 oz Velveeta Cheese Dip Can substitute with Monterey Jack, shredded cheddar, or queso blanco. Equipment Large skillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add ½ chopped yellow onion and 3 sliced bell peppers, sautéing for about 5 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.Introduce 1 pound of top sirloin, cut into strips, to the skillet. Sprinkle with one packet of fajita seasoning and cook for around 4-6 minutes, stirring frequently until the steak is browned.Pour in 8 ounces of tomato sauce and 2 cups of chicken broth, stirring to combine all the flavors in the skillet. Next, add 2 cups of Minute Rice, mixing thoroughly.Cover the skillet and let it cook according to the rice package instructions, usually about 5 minutes, until the rice absorbs the liquid.Once the rice is fully cooked, spoon 8 ounces of Velveeta cheese dip over the top. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt.Finally, remove the skillet from heat, and stir to combine the melted cheese into the mixture. Serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1cupCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 70mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg NotesPair with warm tortillas or crispy tortilla chips for the perfect bite. Feel free to prep the steak and veggies in advance for quicker meal prep. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
