Carne Con Queso
A hearty Mexican-inspired dish featuring tender steak, melted Monterey Jack cheese, and flavorful peppers and onions, perfect for a comforting family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the steak thinly.
- Cook the steak, onions, and bell pepper in butter in a frying pan until the steak is cooked thoroughly.
- Add sour cream to the pan and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the grated Monterey Jack cheese and cook until the cheese is melted.
- Add picante sauce if desired and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a tender cut of round steak and slice it against the grain for a softer texture. If you want a little heat, consider adding jalapeños along with the bell pepper. You can substitute the Monterey Jack cheese with Cheddar or Pepper Jack for a different flavor. Be sure not to overcook the steak to keep it juicy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Carne Con Queso with warm tortillas for a delicious taco night. It pairs beautifully with Mexican recipes like a side of rice or beans. Consider adding a fresh salad or guacamole on the side for a refreshing contrast. For a fun twist, serve it alongside That Bean Dip Stuff for a hearty appetizer spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, covered, to prevent drying out. Pair it with rice or tortillas for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carne Con Queso contains roughly 217 calories, with 7g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (138% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken or pork as alternatives to round steak. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken will need to reach an internal temperature of 165°F and pork should be cooked to 145°F.
Is there a vegetarian version of Carne Con Queso?
Absolutely! You can replace the steak with sautéed mushrooms or even jackfruit for a meaty texture. Use plant-based cheese and sour cream to keep it vegetarian. This variation can be a delicious addition to your collection of vegetarian recipes.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the steak and vegetable mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently and add the sour cream and cheese right before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).