Name: Steak Queso Rice Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 lb steak strips (sirloin, flank, or ribeye); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon cumin; 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tablespoon butter; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese; ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese; ¾ cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons cream cheese; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice); 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 jalapeño, sliced; 1 tablespoon sour cream; ½ cup diced tomatoes

Jump to Recipe

When it comes to weeknight dinners that absolutely steal the show, Steak Queso Rice is always at the top of my list. This dish layers perfectly seasoned steak strips, fluffy, aromatic rice, and a heavenly, creamy queso sauce, creating utter comfort in every single bite. Whether you love bold flavors, crave satisfying textures, or just want a fun, customizable dinner, this recipe delivers all of that with minimal fuss in your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every component of this recipe works together for a truly harmonious dish: the steak is savory and juicy, the rice soaks up all the flavor, and the queso sauce ties everything together in creamy bliss. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each ingredient matters:

Steak strips (sirloin, flank, or ribeye): These cuts are tender and flavorful, perfect for quick cooking and soaking up spices.
Olive oil: Gives the steak a gorgeous sear and helps lock in moisture.
Salt: Essential for both seasoning the steak and bringing out the natural flavors in the rice and sauce.
Black pepper: Adds just the right touch of bite and aroma.
Garlic powder: Brings a rich, savory depth to every component of the dish.
Paprika: Offers subtle smoky warmth and a splash of color.
Cumin: Enhances the meat with earthy undertones that elevate the whole bowl.
Jasmine or basmati rice: These fragrant rices cook up fluffy and enticing, perfect for soaking up sauce.
Beef broth: This infuses the rice with a deep, meaty flavor.
Butter: Adds richness and helps the rice glisten with flavor.
White cheddar cheese (shredded): Melts beautifully and forms the backbone of that luscious queso sauce.
Monterey Jack cheese: Provides stretch and mild creaminess in every spoonful of cheese sauce.
Heavy cream: Gives the queso sauce its incredible silky-smooth texture.
Cream cheese: Makes the sauce extra rich, thick, and absolutely dreamy.
Cayenne pepper (optional): A perfect way to dial up the heat if you’re feeling bold.
Fresh cilantro, jalapeño, sour cream, diced tomatoes (for topping): Add freshness, tang, color, and a little zing to finish off your Steak Queso Rice experience!

How to Make Steak Queso Rice

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Start by making your flavorful rice. Bring beef broth, butter, salt, garlic powder, and a hint of smoked paprika to a gentle boil in a saucepan. Stir in your jasmine or basmati rice, then lower the heat, cover, and let it quietly work its magic for about 15 to 18 minutes. Once all the liquid’s absorbed, fluff the rice with a fork—that lovely aroma is your sign you’re on the right track!

Step 2: Season and Cook the Steak

While the rice is cooking, grab a bowl and toss your steak strips with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin. Get your skillet hot with a slick of olive oil, then lay down those seasoned steak strips. Searing them for 3 to 4 minutes per side gives you a gorgeous brown crust and a tender, juicy bite. Let the steak rest for a few minutes to keep all those sizzling flavors inside.

Step 3: Prepare the Queso Sauce

In a small saucepan, gently warm your heavy cream over low heat. Once it’s steamy, stir in the cream cheese and give it a moment to melt smoothly. Sprinkle in your shredded white cheddar and Monterey Jack, stirring constantly for that silkiness only homemade queso can deliver. Add garlic powder and a dash of cayenne if you love a little heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Steak Queso Rice Bowl

Time for the magic moment: scoop generous helpings of your fluffy rice into bowls, layer on those juicy steak strips, and drizzle—don’t be shy!—a generous helping of queso sauce all over. This is where Steak Queso Rice becomes a dinner you’ll crave again and again.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

To finish, shower everything with fresh cilantro, tomato, jalapeño slices, or a dollop of sour cream. This last layer brings out bright flavors and vivid color that turns a bowl into a feast.

How to Serve Steak Queso Rice

Garnishes

The right garnish makes Steak Queso Rice truly unforgettable. Fresh cilantro offers brightness, while diced tomatoes lend juicy freshness and a pop of red. For some kick, try sliced jalapeños, and a scoop of sour cream cools it all down in the best way. Let everyone customize their bowl for a personal touch.

Side Dishes

This meal stands tall on its own, but if you want a full spread, pair Steak Queso Rice with simple sides like a green salad, crispy tortilla chips, or roasted vegetables. For anyone looking to make it party-worthy, offer lime wedges and guacamole on the side for ultimate dipping fun!

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving guests, try spooning Steak Queso Rice into small cups or mini skillets for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Or pile it inside warm tortillas as an over-the-top taco or burrito filling. However you present it, the layers of steak, queso, and rice are destined to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Steak Queso Rice, store each part separately in airtight containers. The steak, rice, and queso sauce keep well for up to three days in the refrigerator. Keeping them apart helps maintain the best flavors and textures when you go for seconds.

Freezing

For longer-term storage, freeze the rice and steak in separate, airtight containers for up to two months. The queso sauce can also be frozen, though it may need a little stirring when thawed to return to its smooth, creamy glory. Just let everything cool completely before packing for the freezer.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the rice and steak in the microwave or over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore a steamy texture. The queso sauce is best reheated slowly on the stovetop, whisking as it warms to smooth out any separation. Reassemble your Steak Queso Rice bowl and enjoy as if it were made fresh!

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Absolutely! While sirloin, flank, and ribeye are all fantastic, you can use any tender steak you prefer or have on hand. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as leaner cuts may cook a little faster.

How spicy is the queso sauce?

The queso sauce is wonderfully creamy with just a touch of optional cayenne pepper for heat. Leave it out or adjust to your taste—this dish is easily adaptable for both spice lovers and those who prefer milder flavors.

Is Steak Queso Rice gluten-free?

Yes, as written, Steak Queso Rice contains no gluten-containing ingredients. Just double-check your beef broth and cheeses for hidden gluten if you’re cooking for someone with an allergy or sensitivity.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

If you’d like a meatless version, swap the steak for sautéed mushrooms, grilled veggies, or even your favorite plant-based meat substitute. Use vegetable broth in the rice and keep the delicious queso sauce the same!

What’s the best way to meal-prep Steak Queso Rice?

You can easily cook the rice, steak, and queso sauce ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to serve, warm each part and assemble fresh bowls, adding garnishes for a meal that feels made-to-order even days later.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a meal that wraps comfort, flavor, and a dash of fiesta flair all in one bowl, Steak Queso Rice is your new best friend in the kitchen. I can’t wait for you to dig in and discover just how satisfying and fun this dish is—give it a try, make it your own, and don’t forget to grab an extra spoonful of that luscious queso!

Steak Queso Rice Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 23 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Steak Queso Rice recipe combines tender steak strips, flavorful rice, and a creamy queso sauce for a delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests!

Instructions

Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring beef broth, butter, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to a boil. Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Season and Cook the Steak: In a bowl, season the steak strips with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from heat and let the steak rest for 5 minutes.
Prepare the Queso Sauce: In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream over low heat. Add cream cheese and stir until melted. Gradually add cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring constantly until smooth. Mix in garlic powder and cayenne pepper for extra flavor. Keep warm on low heat.
Assemble the Steak Queso Rice Bowl: Divide the cooked rice into serving bowls. Top with steak strips, then drizzle generously with queso sauce.
Garnish and Serve: Add optional toppings like chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, jalapeño slices, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Feel free to customize the toppings based on your preferences.
This dish is best served fresh for optimal taste and texture.
Adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper to the queso sauce.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop, Oven
Cuisine: Tex-Mex