If you’re craving something hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this Steak and Queso Rice Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. Combining tender, perfectly seared steak with creamy queso-infused rice, it’s a delightful dish that brings comfort and a touch of spice all in one bowl. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this recipe delivers satisfying textures and bold flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Steak and Queso Rice Recipe calls for simple, straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role in making the dish a standout. From the juicy steak to the creamy queso that coats every grain of rice, every element contributes to a perfect balance of taste, texture, and visual appeal.
- 1 lb flank steak, sirloin, or your preferred cut of steak: Choose a cut you love for tender, flavorful bites.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Essential for searing the steak to a delicious crust.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: The basic seasoning that enhances every other flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory note to the steak seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional): For a subtle kick and depth of flavor.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice: The base of the dish, fluffy and perfect for soaking up queso sauce.
- 2 cups beef broth (or water): Cooking liquid that infuses the rice with extra richness.
- 1 cup shredded queso cheese (or Velveeta for a smoother melt): The star ingredient that makes the rice irresistibly creamy and cheesy.
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional): For a luscious, creamy texture in the queso sauce.
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional): Adds crunch, sweetness, and color contrast.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish): A fresh, herbal finish to brighten each bite.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional): Adds a zesty freshness that lifts the richness of the dish.
How to Make Steak and Queso Rice Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Start by bringing the beef broth or water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, and cover the pot tightly to let the rice steam for 15 to 20 minutes. This step is key because perfectly cooked rice acts as the fluffy, flavorful canvas for the creamy queso and tender steak to shine on later.
Step 2: Prepare the Steak
While the rice is cooking, season your steak thoroughly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and optional chili powder for a little heat. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet until just smoking, then sear the steak about 4 to 5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Giving the steak time to rest after cooking ensures it locks in those juicy flavors before slicing it thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Step 3: Make the Queso Sauce
Using the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and melt the shredded queso cheese or Velveeta slowly, stirring often to avoid burning. If you want that extra creamy touch, blend in the optional sour cream until smooth and velvety. Toss in the diced bell peppers to add a burst of color and a little sweet crunch, making every bite interesting and vibrant.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Fluff your cooked rice with a fork, then gently fold in the luscious queso sauce until every grain is coated with cheesy goodness. Layer the sliced steak on top and finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a drizzle of lime juice if you’re feeling a fresh, tangy pop. This assembly brings together textures and flavors that make this dish truly memorable.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Plate your Steak and Queso Rice Recipe right away to enjoy it warm and melty. The combination of creamy rice with juicy steak, accented by fresh garnishes, creates a comforting yet exciting meal that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful.
How to Serve Steak and Queso Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes elevate this dish magnificently. Chopped cilantro adds a burst of herbaceous freshness, while a squeeze of lime juice cuts through the rich queso, balancing each bite so it never feels too heavy. You can also sprinkle a bit of diced jalapeño or sliced green onions for extra zest and crunch.
Side Dishes
This Steak and Queso Rice Recipe stands well on its own, but pairing it with simple sides like a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or charred corn can round out your meal beautifully. The freshness from the veggies complements the creamy rice and savory steak, creating a well-rounded dining experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests? Serve this dish in individual shallow bowls topped with cilantro and lime wedges on the side for a visually appealing touch. For a fun twist, turn it into a burrito bowl with extra toppings like avocado slices, pickled onions, or a dollop of salsa to amp up the Tex-Mex vibes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Steak and Queso Rice Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping it chilled promptly ensures the flavors stay fresh and the texture remains pleasant when reheated.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish for up to one month. Store it in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, making sure it’s completely cooled before freezing. Keep in mind that the creamy queso might change texture slightly after freezing, but reheating carefully restores much of the original deliciousness.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to revive the queso’s creaminess. Adding a splash of water or broth can help loosen the rice if it seems a bit dry. Microwaving works too, but be sure to cover the dish to retain moisture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of queso?
Absolutely! While queso gives this dish its signature creamy and slightly tangy flavor, you can substitute with shredded Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a processed cheese like Velveeta for a smoother melt. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the dish’s texture and flavor slightly.
Is it necessary to use beef broth instead of water for the rice?
Using beef broth adds extra depth and enhances the savory notes of the steak and cheese, but water works fine if you want a lighter base or need a quick substitute. Just be sure to season well to maintain flavor balance.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add more heat, increase the chili powder in the steak seasoning or add some diced jalapeños to the queso sauce. You could also serve the dish alongside a spicy salsa or hot sauce to let each person customize their spice level.
Can I prepare the steak ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook and slice the steak up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently when assembling the dish to avoid overcooking. This can save time on busy days and make dinner prep easier.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Steak and Queso Rice Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free beef broth and check that your cheese and seasonings don’t contain any additives with gluten. It’s a great option for those with dietary restrictions looking for a comforting meal.
Final Thoughts
This Steak and Queso Rice Recipe is an absolute joy to make and eat, blending rich, creamy textures with the boldness of perfectly seared steak. It’s a cozy, satisfying dish that comes together with accessible ingredients and straightforward steps, yet delivers impressive flavors. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a regular in your meal rotation—I promise it will quickly become a favorite for good reason!
Print
Steak and Queso Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Steak & Queso Rice is a comforting and flavorful one-pan dish combining tender seared steak with creamy queso-infused rice, enhanced by fresh cilantro and optional lime juice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe offers a satisfying blend of rich cheese sauce and savory steak, balanced with aromatic seasonings and a touch of freshness.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasonings
- 1 lb flank steak, sirloin, or your preferred cut of steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
Rice and Broth
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups beef broth (or water)
Queso Sauce
- 1 cup shredded queso cheese (or Velveeta for a smoother melt)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional, for extra flavor)
Garnishes
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional, for added freshness)
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and beef broth (or water). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Steak: While the rice cooks, season the steak with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and chili powder if using. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust timing for your preferred doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it against the grain into thin strips.
- Make the Queso Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the shredded queso cheese or Velveeta and allow it to melt, stirring frequently to prevent burning. For extra creaminess, add sour cream and stir until well combined and smooth. Optionally, stir in diced bell peppers for added flavor and color.
- Assemble the Dish: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the cheesy queso sauce until the rice is fully coated. Top the cheesy rice with the sliced steak and sprinkle with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of lime juice if desired.
- Serve: Serve the Steak & Queso Rice immediately while warm and enjoy this rich, flavorful, and cheesy meal.
Notes
- Use Velveeta for a smoother, creamier queso sauce.
- For a spicier kick, add extra chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Slicing the steak against the grain helps keep it tender.
- Bell peppers add crunch and color but can be omitted if preferred.
- Adjust cooking times based on steak thickness and preferred doneness.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently to preserve creaminess.
