Steak & Queso Rice – Creamy, Cheesy Dinner Bowl

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Steak & Queso Rice is the perfect combination of hearty, creamy, and savory flavors. Juicy bites of seared steak are layered over fluffy rice and smothered with a rich queso sauce, creating a dish that is both comforting and indulgent. This recipe strikes the balance between bold Tex-Mex flavors and the wholesome satisfaction of a home-cooked meal. It is a versatile dish that can be served as a weeknight dinner or even as a crowd-pleasing option for gatherings.

The best part about this recipe is how customizable it can be—you can switch up the cheese blend, add more spice, or even load it with vegetables for a lighter twist. Whether you are preparing it for family dinner or meal prepping for the week, Steak & Queso Rice will always feel special and satisfying.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Steak
A tender cut such as sirloin, flank, or ribeye provides the perfect base. The steak should be seasoned and seared to lock in its natural juices, offering a hearty protein for the dish.

Rice
Fluffy long-grain white rice serves as the foundation, soaking up the creamy queso sauce beautifully. Brown rice or even cilantro-lime rice can be used if desired.

Queso Cheese Sauce
A creamy blend of melted cheeses, typically cheddar and Monterey Jack, enriched with cream or milk. This sauce brings the dish together with a luscious texture.

Onion
Diced onion adds a sweet and savory base flavor, complementing both the steak and queso.

Garlic
Minced garlic deepens the savory notes and infuses the dish with warmth and aroma.

Jalapeño
For a subtle heat, fresh jalapeños provide a Tex-Mex flair without overpowering the queso.

Butter
Used for searing and flavor, butter enhances both the rice and steak with a rich undertone.

Spices
Cumin, chili powder, and paprika give the rice and steak a smoky, bold taste reminiscent of Mexican-inspired flavors.

Beef Broth
Adds depth and richness to the rice, elevating its flavor beyond plain water.

Fresh Cilantro
Used as a garnish, cilantro adds freshness and a pop of color to the finished dish.

Directions

Begin by cooking the rice in beef broth to infuse it with savory flavor. While the rice simmers, season the steak generously with salt, pepper, and a blend of cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the steak until golden brown on the outside and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

Next, prepare the queso sauce by sautéing onion, garlic, and jalapeño in butter until softened. Slowly stir in cream or milk, followed by shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, whisking until smooth and velvety. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Once the rice is fluffy and tender, spread it on a serving platter or in individual bowls. Layer the sliced steak over the rice and generously spoon the queso sauce on top. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a vibrant touch. Serve immediately while hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings, making it ideal for a family dinner. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with an additional 25 minutes of cooking, for a total of 40 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen the queso sauce, or microwave in short intervals, stirring between each. For longer storage, the rice and steak can be frozen separately for up to 2 months, but it is best to prepare the queso fresh.

Variations and Customizations

Spicy Kick
Add extra jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or a dash of cayenne to bring heat to the queso.

Vegetable Boost
Incorporate bell peppers, corn, or black beans for added color and nutrition.

Different Protein
Swap steak for grilled chicken, shrimp, or even roasted vegetables for a lighter twist.

Cheese Variety
Experiment with pepper jack, Oaxaca, or queso fresco for different textures and flavors.

Herb Twist
Try garnishing with green onions, parsley, or even a squeeze of lime instead of cilantro.

Low-Carb Option
Replace rice with cauliflower rice to make the dish lighter but still satisfying.

Tex-Mex Bowl Style
Serve with guacamole, pico de gallo, or sour cream for a layered bowl experience.

Smoky Flavor
Add a dash of smoked paprika or grill the steak for a charred, smoky element.

Creamier Texture
Stir in cream cheese or heavy cream for an extra-rich queso sauce.

Crunchy Topping
Finish with crushed tortilla chips or fried onions for added texture.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked steak for this recipe?

Yes, leftover steak can be used; simply reheat it gently before adding to the rice.

What type of rice works best?

Long-grain white rice is ideal, but jasmine or basmati rice also work well.

Can I make the queso ahead of time?

Yes, but reheat it gently with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your queso ingredients and spices are gluten-free.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely—add cayenne pepper, serrano peppers, or hot sauce to the queso.

What cut of steak is best?

Ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak work beautifully for this recipe.

Can I use store-bought queso?

Yes, but homemade queso provides a fresher and creamier flavor.

Conclusion

Steak & Queso Rice is a rich, flavorful, and versatile dish that combines tender steak, creamy queso, and perfectly seasoned rice into a comforting meal. Its balance of textures and bold flavors makes it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With easy customizations, it can be adjusted to suit any taste or dietary preference, ensuring it becomes a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.

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