The Queso Steak Fajita Skillet is a delightful one-pan meal that bursts with flavor and is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends for a casual dinner or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this dish delivers deliciousness with minimal fuss. Featuring tender strips of seasoned steak, vibrant peppers, and a rich queso sauce, it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- One-Pan Meal: Enjoy the convenience of cooking everything in one skillet, which means less cleanup for you.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of fajita seasoning and creamy cheese creates an explosion of flavors in every bite.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the vegetables or protein to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.
- Family-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and colorful veggies, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Skillet
- Measuring Cups
- Cutting Board
- Knife
- Wooden Spoon
Why These Tools Matter
- Skillet: A sturdy skillet allows for even cooking and helps achieve a nice sear on the meat.
- Measuring Cups: Accurate measurements ensure your rice, broth, and other ingredients are just right for perfect results.
- Cutting Board & Knife: Having a good cutting board and knife simplifies prepping your vegetables quickly and safely.
Ingredients
For the Rice Base
- 2 cups Minute Rice
- 2 cups Chicken Broth
- 1 package Fajita Seasoning
- 8 ounces Tomato Sauce
For the Fajitas
- 3 Bell peppers (sliced)
- ½ Yellow Onion (diced)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 pound Top Sirloin (cut into strips)
For the Cheese Topping
- Gordo’s Cheese Dip (as much as you like)

How to Make Queso Steak Fajita Skillet
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables and Meat
In a hot skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once heated, toss in the diced onions and sliced bell peppers. Sauté them for about 2–3 minutes until they start to soften. Then, add in the top sirloin strips. Cook until the steak reaches your desired doneness while seasoning with the fajita seasoning packet.
Step 2: Add Rice and Broth
Once the steak is cooked through, stir in the Minute Rice along with chicken broth. If using a different type of rice, refer to its packaging for proper rice-to-broth ratios. Next, pour in the tomato sauce and mix everything until well combined. Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it cook according to package instructions.
Step 3: Top with Cheese Dip
After the rice has cooked fully, drizzle Gordo’s Cheese Dip generously over the top. Allow it to melt slightly before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Queso Steak Fajita Skillet!
How to Serve Queso Steak Fajita Skillet
Serving your Queso Steak Fajita Skillet can elevate the meal experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious dish, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied.
Family-Style Presentation
- Serve the dish directly from the skillet for a rustic feel. This encourages sharing and allows everyone to enjoy the cheesy goodness straight from the pan.
Toppings Bar
- Set up a toppings bar with options like sour cream, guacamole, and fresh cilantro. This allows guests to customize their fajita skillet to their taste.
With Tortillas
- Offer warm flour or corn tortillas on the side. Guests can build their own fajitas using the flavorful steak and veggies for a fun, interactive meal.
Over Salad
- For a lighter option, serve the queso steak fajita mixture over a bed of mixed greens. This adds freshness and crunch while keeping it healthy.
Paired with Chips
- Serve with tortilla chips for an added crunch. The cheesy sauce makes a perfect dip when paired with crispy chips.
How to Perfect Queso Steak Fajita Skillet
To ensure your Queso Steak Fajita Skillet turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose Quality Meat: Opt for high-quality top sirloin for tender and flavorful results.
- Preheat Your Skillet: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding ingredients; this helps achieve that perfect sear on the beef.
- Customize Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of fajita seasoning based on your heat preference. You can add more for extra kick or use mild seasoning for a family-friendly dish.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the skillet to rest for a few minutes before serving; this helps flavors meld together.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh bell peppers and onions will enhance flavor and texture compared to frozen or canned options.

Best Side Dishes for Queso Steak Fajita Skillet
Pairing side dishes with your Queso Steak Fajita Skillet can enhance its flavors and create a more complete meal. Here are some excellent suggestions:
- Mexican Rice: A flavorful side that complements the spices of your skillet while adding additional texture.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide an excellent protein boost and pair deliciously with the steak.
- Guacamole: A creamy avocado dip that adds richness and balances out the flavors in your dish.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brings sweetness and crunch, making it a refreshing side.
- Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro that adds brightness to each bite.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw can provide a nice contrast in texture while being refreshing alongside the rich queso.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled until tender can add color and nutrients to your table setting.
- Cilantro Lime Quinoa: A zesty quinoa dish that offers a healthy alternative while complementing Mexican-inspired meals beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Queso Steak Fajita Skillet, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Neglecting the Sautéing Process: Sautéing the onions and bell peppers properly enhances their flavor. Don’t rush this step; give them 2-3 minutes until they’re tender and fragrant.
- Ignoring the Rice Instructions: Using the wrong rice-to-broth ratio can lead to undercooked or mushy rice. Always check the package instructions if using a different type of rice.
- Overcooking the Steak: Cooking steak for too long can make it tough. Keep an eye on it and remove it from heat once it reaches your preferred doneness.
- Skipping Seasoning Adjustment: Not tasting before serving can lead to bland results. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed before adding cheese dip.
- Using Cold Cheese Dip: Drizzling cold cheese dip on hot ingredients can affect texture. Warm it slightly before drizzling to ensure a creamy consistency.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow to cool before placing in the fridge to prevent condensation.
Freezing Queso Steak Fajita Skillet
- Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
- Portion into smaller containers for easy reheating.
Reheating Queso Steak Fajita Skillet
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Queso Steak Fajita Skillet?
A Queso Steak Fajita Skillet is a one-pan meal featuring seasoned steak, sautéed peppers and onions, minute rice, and creamy queso cheese.
Can I use different types of meat?
Yes! This recipe works well with chicken or turkey instead of steak. Adjust cooking times based on the meat used.
How can I customize my Queso Steak Fajita Skillet?
You can add extra vegetables like zucchini or corn, or mix in beans for added protein and fiber.
Is this dish spicy?
The spice level varies depending on your choice of fajita seasoning. You can choose mild or hot based on your preference.
Conclusion
This Queso Steak Fajita Skillet is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different proteins and vegetables according to your taste preferences. Give it a try; it’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners!

Queso Steak Fajita Skillet
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of the Queso Steak Fajita Skillet, a quick and easy one-pan meal that turns dinner into a festive occasion. This vibrant dish showcases tender strips of seasoned beef, colorful bell peppers, and a rich queso sauce that melds perfectly with fluffy rice. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this savory skillet is sure to impress both kids and adults alike. Prepare in just 25 minutes with minimal cleanup, making it an ideal choice for busy families. Customize the ingredients to suit your preferences and enjoy a flavorful meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 2 cups Minute Rice
- 2 cups Chicken Broth
- 1 package Fajita Seasoning
- 8 ounces Tomato Sauce
- 3 Bell Peppers (sliced)
- ½ Yellow Onion (diced)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 pound Top Sirloin (cut into strips)
- Gordo's Cheese Dip (to taste)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté onions and bell peppers for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add top sirloin strips to the skillet, cooking until desired doneness while seasoning with fajita seasoning.
- Stir in Minute Rice and chicken broth. Mix in tomato sauce, bring to a simmer, and cook according to rice package instructions.
- Once rice is fully cooked, drizzle Gordo's Cheese Dip generously over the top and allow it to melt slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg