Jump to Recipe Print RecipeWalking into my kitchen, the enticing aroma of sizzling steak fills the air, transforming a typical evening into something extraordinary. This Steak Queso Rice recipe is my go-to for those nights when I crave comfort without spending hours slaving over the stove. Tender strips of steak smothered in a creamy queso sauce, all resting on a bed of fluffy, perfectly seasoned rice—this dish is a delightful indulgence. Not only is it quick to whip up, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights, but it also offers the freedom to customize based on your family’s preferences. Whether you need a hearty meal to satisfy a crowd or a cozy dinner for two, this recipe has you covered. Curiosity piqued? Let’s dive into the deliciousness together! Why is Steak Queso Rice a Must-Try? Hearty Comfort: The robust combination of tender steak and creamy queso transforms a simple dinner into a heartwarming feast. Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. Customizable: Tailor the flavors and toppings based on your family’s preferences—switch up proteins or add more veggies! Crowd Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, Steak Queso Rice never fails to impress. Serve it alongside Caprese Grilled Steak for a complete meal! Vibrant Presentation: With its colorful layers and rich textures, this dish looks as great as it tastes, ensuring a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Dive into this delightful recipe and savor every bite! Steak Queso Rice Ingredients For the Steak Steak strips – Use high-quality cuts like sirloin, flank, or ribeye for the best flavor and tenderness. Olive oil – Ideal for cooking the steak; vegetable oil is a suitable substitute. Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; adjust based on your taste preferences. Black pepper – Adds a nice kick; freshly ground is recommended for optimal flavor. Garlic powder – Provides aromatic depth; fresh minced garlic can be an excellent alternative. Paprika – Contributes both color and a mild flavor; consider smoked paprika for added smokiness. Cumin – Offers warm, earthy notes; if preferred, you can swap it with coriander for a different flavor profile. For the Rice Jasmine or basmati rice – Acts as the delicious base; ensure it’s fluffy and perfectly cooked. Beef broth – Used to cook rice and enhance flavor; chicken broth works as a flavorful alternative. Butter – Adds richness; can be omitted for a dairy-free version. For the Queso Sauce Shredded white cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese – Create a creamy, dreamy sauce; feel free to use similar cheeses if needed. Heavy cream – Adds a luxurious creaminess; substituir with half-and-half for a lighter option. Cream cheese – Helps thicken and gently smooth the queso; can be omitted for a lighter sauce. Cayenne pepper (optional) – Adds heat and zest; adjust to suit your spice palate. For Garnishing Fresh cilantro – Brightens the dish with freshness; can be swapped with green onions if preferred. Jalapeño – Adds a spicy punch; omit if you’re looking for a milder meal. Sour cream – Creamy topping that complements the dish beautifully; Greek yogurt is a healthy substitute. Diced tomatoes – Provide freshness and a pop of color as a lovely garnish. Feel the excitement of cooking this cozy Steak Queso Rice by gathering all these ingredients! Each component plays a pivotal role in crafting this mouthwatering steak rice bowl that’s sure to become a family favorite. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Steak Queso Rice Step 1: Cook the Rice In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of beef broth, 1 tablespoon of butter, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, stir in 1 cup of jasmine or basmati rice, reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the liquid has absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside. Step 2: Season and Cook the Steak While the rice simmers, season 1 pound of steak strips with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1 teaspoon of cumin. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the seasoned steak strips for 3-4 minutes per side or until they are golden brown and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from heat and let rest. Step 3: Prepare the Queso Sauce In a small saucepan over low heat, warm 1 cup of heavy cream until it’s just simmering. Stir in 4 ounces of cream cheese, mixing until melted and smooth. Gradually add 1 cup of shredded white cheddar cheese and 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese, continuously stirring until fully combined and creamy. For an extra kick, mix in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and cayenne pepper to taste. Remove from heat. Step 4: Assemble the Steak Queso Rice Bowl In serving bowls, distribute the fluffily cooked rice as a base. Arrange the sautéed steak strips on top of the rice, and generously drizzle the creamy queso sauce over the steak, allowing it to cascade beautifully into the rice below. Step 5: Garnish and Serve Finally, add your choice of garnishes to finish the dish. Sprinkle fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and sliced jalapeños for color and flavor. Add a dollop of sour cream to enhance creaminess. Serve immediately while the Steak Queso Rice is warm and comforting, ready to be enjoyed! How to Store and Freeze Steak Queso Rice Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep the flavors fresh and the rice fluffy. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled Steak Queso Rice in individual portions for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s well wrapped or placed in a freezer-safe container. Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth or water to rebuild moisture. Airtight Guidance: Always make sure the rice and queso are sealed properly to prevent freezer burn or spoilage in the fridge. Steak Queso Rice Variations & Substitutions Feel free to mix things up with these fun and flavorful twists on your Steak Queso Rice! Protein Swaps: Replace steak with grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for a lighter option that’s just as satisfying. Veggie Alternatives: Substitute the steak with black beans or grilled vegetables for a hearty, vegetarian bowl that’s brimming with flavor. Queso Variations: For a kick, mix in jalapeños or additional cayenne into the queso for an extra punch of spice. Rice Options: Try using quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthy twist while maintaining a delicious flavor base. Cheese Boost: Add some crumbled feta or goat cheese on top for a tangy contrast that elevates the creamy queso. Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like parsley or basil; they’ll bring a bright freshness to your Steak Queso Rice. Creamy Alternatives: Swap heavy cream with cream cheese or even Greek yogurt for a creamy yet healthier sauce that doesn’t compromise on taste. Sweet Addition: Consider throwing in some corn or diced mango for sweetness, making the dish pop with summer-inspired flavors. Dare to explore these options and personalize your Steak Queso Rice experience; trust me, you won’t regret it! And if you have extra steak on hand, why not whip up a delightful Caprese Grilled Steak to accompany this meal? Each version invites creativity while ensuring you savor every delicious bite! Expert Tips for Steak Queso Rice Choose Quality Steak: Opt for ribeye, flank, or sirloin cuts for the most flavor and tenderness in your Steak Queso Rice. Rest the Steak: Allowing the cooked steak to rest for a few minutes before slicing keeps all the juicy flavors intact. Melt Cheese Slow: When preparing the queso sauce, warm it over low heat to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy or clumpy. Fluff the Rice: After cooking, fluff the rice with a fork to maintain its light, fluffy texture and avoid stickiness. Avoid Overcooking: For the best steak, aim for medium-rare to medium doneness; overcooking can lead to a chewy texture. Customize Your Toppings: Tailor your garnishes to taste—fresh cilantro, jalapeños, or diced tomatoes all elevate the flavors in this hearty bowl. What to Serve with Steak Queso Rice Create a cozy dinner by pairing this mouthwatering rice bowl with delicious sides and refreshing beverages that complement its bold flavors. Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, crunchy texture offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty flavors of the steak and queso. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a slight crunch and a touch of smokiness, enhancing the outdoor barbecue feel. Mexican Street Corn Salad: This vibrant salad, with its zesty lime and cilantro, brightens up the dish while offering a fun flavor fusion. Roasted Vegetables: Tossed in olive oil and spices, roasted veggies provide a colorful, nutritious balance to the rich and hearty rice bowl. Black Bean Salad: A protein-packed, refreshing choice, this salad adds earthiness, and the lime dressing pairs perfectly with the queso sauce. Spicy Guacamole: Creamy, rich guacamole topped with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro offers a delightful marriage of flavors that elevates the meal. Margaritas on the Rocks: A tangy margarita complements the richness of the queso with its refreshing citrus notes, making for the perfect beverage pairing. Chocolate Flan: End the meal on a sweet note; the creamy texture of this dessert is a luscious way to round off the savory main course. Make Ahead Options Preparing Steak Queso Rice ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes during busy weeknights! You can cook the rice and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to fluff it gently and keep it covered to maintain its moisture. The seasoned steak strips can also be cooked in advance and kept in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For the queso sauce, prepare it ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, reheating gently on low heat before serving to keep it creamy and smooth. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat all components, assemble in bowls, and add your fresh garnishes for that restaurant-quality experience! Steak Queso Rice Recipe FAQs How do I select the right steak for this recipe? Absolutely! For the best flavor and tenderness, I recommend using high-quality cuts like ribeye, flank, or sirloin. Look for well-marbled steak, which ensures juiciness and richness. Avoid cuts with dark spots or excessive gristle for optimal results. How should I store leftover Steak Queso Rice? Very simple! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and the rice maintains its fluffy texture. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to restore moisture. Can I freeze Steak Queso Rice? Absolutely! For longer storage, freeze the assembled Steak Queso Rice in individual portions. Use freezer-safe containers or wrap them tightly in foil and place in a resealable bag. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. What if my steak turns out tough? Oh no! To avoid tough steak, ensure you don’t overcook it—medium-rare to medium is ideal. After cooking, always let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing. This lets the juices redistribute back into the meat for a tender bite. If it’s still tough, try slicing against the grain for more manageable pieces. Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Absolutely! To create a dairy-free version of Steak Queso Rice, substitute the cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives. You can use coconut milk along with vegan cheese options like cashew cheese for a creamy sauce. Opt for dairy-free sour cream or avocado to keep the dish rich and flavorful! Are there any pet dietary considerations? Yes, definitely! While the ingredients in Steak Queso Rice are delicious for us, always avoid feeding human food to pets without consulting your veterinarian. Ingredients like onions and certain spices can be harmful to them, so stick to their preferred diet to ensure their health and wellbeing. Steak Queso Rice: A Hearty Bowl of Bold Flavor This Steak Queso Rice recipe combines tender steak and creamy queso for a comforting and quick dinner option, perfect for busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 650 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Steak1 pound Steak strips Use high-quality cuts like sirloin, flank, or ribeye.2 tablespoons Olive oil Or vegetable oil.1/2 teaspoon Salt Adjust based on your taste.1/2 teaspoon Black pepper Freshly ground is recommended.1 teaspoon Garlic powder Fresh minced garlic can be an alternative.1 teaspoon Paprika Consider smoked paprika for additional flavor.1 teaspoon Cumin Or swap with coriander if you prefer.For the Rice1 cup Jasmine or basmati rice Ensure it's fluffy and perfectly cooked.2 cups Beef broth Chicken broth can be used as an alternative.1 tablespoon Butter Can be omitted for a dairy-free version.For the Queso Sauce1 cup Shredded white cheddar cheese Or similar cheeses if preferred.1 cup Monterey Jack cheese Feel free to use substitutes.1 cup Heavy cream Can be substituted with half-and-half.4 ounces Cream cheese Can be omitted for a lighter sauce.1 teaspoon Cayenne pepper Adjust to suit your spice palate.For Garnishing1/4 cup Fresh cilantro Or swap with green onions if preferred.1 medium Jalapeño Omit for a milder meal.1/2 cup Sour cream Greek yogurt is a healthy substitute.1 cup Diced tomatoes Provides freshness and a pop of color. Equipment Medium saucepanLarge skilletSmall saucepan Method Cook the RiceIn a medium saucepan, combine beef broth, butter, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil, stir in rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes.Season and Cook the SteakSeason steak strips with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté steak for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked to desired doneness.Prepare the Queso SauceWarm heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in cream cheese until melted, then gradually add cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring until creamy.Assemble the BowlDistribute cooked rice as a base in serving bowls, add sautéed steak strips on top, and drizzle with creamy queso sauce.Garnish and ServeGarnish with cilantro, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream. Serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg NotesCustomize toppings to taste, and consider the quality of the steak for the best flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
