Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary Mexican-inspired feast! This Mexican Spiced Steak with Chipotle Con Queso and Avocado Salad is not just a meal—it's a flavor explosion that combines smoky, spicy, and creamy elements guaranteed to make your palate dance. In just 35 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds, wondering how you became such a kitchen maestro!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs steak
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup queso cheese
- 1 chipotle pepper, minced
- 2 avocados, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup lime juice
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the steak. Pat the steak dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season both sides of the steak generously with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
- While the steak is resting, prepare the chipotle con queso. In a small saucepan, combine the queso cheese and minced chipotle pepper. Heat over low to medium heat, stirring frequently until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Next, prepare the avocado salad. In a medium bowl, combine the diced avocados and halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with lime juice and gently toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned steak and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until your desired doneness is reached. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should read 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
- Once cooked, remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute for a more tender steak. After resting, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips.
- To serve, place a portion of the sliced steak on each plate. Drizzle with the chipotle con queso, allowing it to cascade over the steak. Add a generous scoop of the avocado salad on the side.
- Garnish with additional lime wedges and fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy your Mexican Spiced Steak with Chipotle Con Queso and Avocado Salad!
Tips
- Always pat your steak dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect sear and develop a delicious crust.
- Let the steak rest at room temperature for 10 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
- Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness—130°F is perfect for medium-rare.
- Slice the steak against the grain to maximize tenderness.
- For extra flavor, toast your spices briefly in a dry pan before seasoning the steak.
- Choose a high-quality, well-marbled steak like ribeye or New York strip for best results.
- Don't rush the resting period after cooking—this helps retain the steak's juices and ensures a more tender bite.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 38g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg
