If you love bold flavors, easy cooking, and a one-pan wonder that brings everyone running to the table, then you absolutely need to try this Queso Steak Fajita Skillet Recipe. It perfectly combines tender, juicy top sirloin with vibrant bell peppers and onions, all sizzling together with mouthwatering fajita seasoning. The real showstopper? That luscious, creamy Gordo’s cheese dip melted right on top, turning a simple skillet meal into a cheesy, comforting fiesta in every bite. This dish is quick to make, irresistibly flavorful, and guaranteed to become your go-to for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the flavors just right is all about using simple but key ingredients that bring texture, color, and depth to this dish. Each element plays a vital role, whether it’s making the steak tender or infusing the rice with rich, savory goodness.
- 2 cups Minute Rice: Perfect for quick cooking and soaking up all that delicious fajita flavor.
- 2 cups Chicken Broth: Adds a savory base that elevates the rice beyond plain grains.
- 1 package Fajita Seasoning: The magic blend that brings authentic Tex-Mex flavor to every bite.
- 8 ounces Tomato Sauce: Adds acidity and a rich, comforting color to the skillet.
- 3 Bell Peppers (sliced): For sweetness, crunch, and a pop of vibrant color.
- ½ Yellow Onion (diced): Adds savory depth and slight sweetness when sautéed.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Essential for sautéing vegetables and sealing in juicy flavors in the steak.
- 1 pound Top Sirloin (cut into strips): Tender, flavorful steak that cooks quickly and pairs perfectly with fajita seasoning.
- Gordo’s Cheese Dip (as much as you like): The creamy, cheesy finish that makes this recipe truly unforgettable.
How to Make Queso Steak Fajita Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Veggies and Steak
Start by heating a skillet over medium high heat and adding your olive oil. Toss in the diced onions and sliced bell peppers, letting them cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they’re just tender and fragrant. This step is key to releasing their natural sweetness. Next, add in the steak strips, cooking them until they reach your preferred level of doneness. Don’t forget to sprinkle in the fajita seasoning here— it’s the flavor powerhouse that ties all these ingredients together beautifully.
Step 2: Combine the Rice and Sauce
Once your steak and veggies are cooked, it’s time to add the minute rice and chicken broth right into the skillet. This is where the dish starts to become a hearty, homestyle comfort meal. Pour in the tomato sauce as well and stir everything until well combined. Then, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook according to the rice package directions, usually about 5 minutes. If you’re opting for a different type of rice, just be sure to adjust the broth ratio accordingly for perfect fluffiness.
Step 3: Top with Cheese and Serve
After the rice has absorbed all that savory liquid and is tender, it’s time for the grand finale. Drizzle your desired amount of Gordo’s cheese dip directly over the hot skillet. The heat will melt the cheese, creating a gooey, irresistible blanket that links all those amazing flavors and textures. Serve straight from the skillet while everything is warm and perfectly gooey.
How to Serve Queso Steak Fajita Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Queso Steak Fajita Skillet Recipe, add fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, diced avocado, or a squeeze of lime juice. These little touches bring brightness and freshness that beautifully balance the richness of the cheese and steak.
Side Dishes
This skillet recipe is wonderful on its own, but pairing it with warm flour tortillas, a crisp green salad, or some black beans makes for a truly satisfying meal. The tortillas are perfect for scooping up every last bit of cheesy fajita goodness!
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the skillet with individual bowls of toppings such as sour cream, sliced jalapeños, or pico de gallo. This lets everyone customize their plate and enjoy the vibrant layers of flavor in their own way.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Queso Steak Fajita Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, maintaining most of its flavor and texture. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing.
Freezing
If you want to save this recipe for later, it freezes beautifully. Transfer cooled leftovers into freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to evenly warm the rice and melt the cheese again. You can also microwave portions, adding a splash of broth or water to keep things moist and prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While top sirloin is tender and cooks quickly, skirt or flank steak also works beautifully for fajita-style dishes. Just slice thinly against the grain to keep it tender.
Is there a substitute for Gordo’s cheese dip?
If you don’t have Gordo’s cheese dip handy, feel free to use any creamy cheese sauce or even shredded cheese that melts well, like Monterey Jack or cheddar. The goal is that delicious cheesy finish.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the steak for hearty vegetables like portobello mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The fajita seasoning and cheese dip will still pack plenty of flavor.
How spicy is the fajita seasoning?
Most fajita seasoning blends have a mild to medium level of spice, but if you prefer it milder, use less seasoning or choose a mild blend. You can always add extra chili powder or hot sauce for more heat.
What side dishes go best with the Queso Steak Fajita Skillet Recipe?
Traditional sides like warm tortillas, Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh avocado salad complement this skillet beautifully and round out the meal perfectly.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the comforting, cheesy warmth of this Queso Steak Fajita Skillet Recipe to bring smiles around your dinner table. It’s simple, fast, and packed with layers of flavor that taste like you spent hours preparing. Trust me, once you make this once, it will quickly become a favorite repeat in your recipe rotation. So turn on the stove, grab your skillet, and get ready for a delicious fiesta that everyone will adore!
Print
Queso Steak Fajita Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 5 to 5.5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Description
This Queso Steak Fajita Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender strips of top sirloin sautéed with vibrant bell peppers and onions, all combined with seasoned rice and a creamy cheese dip topping. Perfect for a satisfying dinner that comes together in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Rice and Broth
- 2 cups Minute Rice
- 2 cups Chicken Broth
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 pound Top Sirloin, cut into strips
- 1 package Fajita Seasoning
Vegetables
- 3 Bell Peppers, sliced
- ½ Yellow Onion, diced
Other Ingredients
- 8 ounces Tomato Sauce
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- Gordo’s Cheese Dip, as much as you like
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables and Steak: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Add the diced onions and sliced bell peppers, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened. Then add the steak strips and cook them to your preferred level of doneness. Season with the fajita seasoning packet, stirring well to coat the meat and vegetables.
- Add Rice, Broth, and Tomato Sauce: After the steak is cooked through, add the minute rice and chicken broth to the skillet. Pour in the tomato sauce and stir everything together until well combined. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook according to the minute rice package instructions, usually about 5 minutes, until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- Finish with Cheese Dip and Serve: Once the rice is fully cooked and the skillet mixture is heated through, drizzle your desired amount of Gordo’s cheese dip on top. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful queso steak fajita skillet.
Notes
- For variation, substitute minute rice with other quick-cooking rice varieties but adjust broth quantities accordingly.
- You can use different cheese dips if Gordo’s is unavailable, but a creamy, melty cheese dip works best.
- Customize the fajita seasoning or make your own blend for a personalized flavor profile.
- If you prefer, cook the steak separately to avoid overcooking the vegetables.
- This dish pairs well with a side of fresh guacamole or sour cream for added richness.
