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Grilled Cheesy Steak & Cilantro Rice

Grilled Cheesy Steak & Cilantro Rice

Grilled Cheesy Steak & Cilantro Rice is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish featuring juicy grilled steak topped with melted cheese, paired with fluffy cilantro-lime infused rice. It’s a perfect weeknight meal or weekend gathering favorite that combines savory richness and fresh zest in one satisfying plate.

Ingredients

Scale

Steak and Cheese

  • 1 lb ribeye or sirloin steak
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for grilling)

Rice and Flavorings

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice or jasmine rice
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for toasting rice)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups water or broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat, then add minced garlic and toast for 1-2 minutes. Add the rice and toast lightly with garlic for another 1-2 minutes. Pour in water or broth, season with salt and pepper, and cook according to package instructions. Once cooked, fluff the rice and stir in chopped fresh cilantro and freshly squeezed lime juice.
  2. Season the Steak: While the rice cooks, season your steak generously on both sides with salt and black pepper. Let the steak rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes to ensure even cooking.
  3. Grill the Steak: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the steak with olive oil and grill for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting time based on thickness. When the steak is nearly done, place slices of cheese on top and cover with a lid or foil for about 1 minute until the cheese melts.
  4. Rest and Slice: Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Then, thinly slice the steak against the grain for tender pieces.
  5. Assemble and Serve: Plate generous scoops of cilantro rice alongside the cheesy steak slices. Optionally, drizzle any steak juices over the rice and garnish with extra fresh cilantro. Add lime wedges or sliced green onions if desired.

Notes

  • Always allow the steak to rest after grilling to retain maximum juiciness and tenderness.
  • Using fresh cilantro is key to brightening the rice and dish.
  • Add cheese just at the end of grilling and cover briefly to melt without drying the steak.
  • Toast rice first with garlic and olive oil to add nuttiness and depth.
  • Season both steak and rice well for balanced flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled steak, cilantro rice, cheesy steak, weeknight dinner, easy recipe, cilantro lime rice, steak recipe