Steak & Queso Rice is a bold and satisfying dish that combines tender, juicy steak with creamy queso sauce, all served over a bed of flavorful rice. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for dinner or meal prep and delivers a hearty Tex-Mex-inspired experience in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and indulgent: Creamy queso sauce takes this dish to the next level.
- Hearty and filling: Packed with protein and carbs for a satisfying meal.
- Easy to customize: Add your favorite toppings or spices for a personal twist.
- Perfect for any occasion: Great for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.
- One-pan simplicity: Minimal cleanup for maximum flavor.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- For the steak:
- 1 pound sirloin steak (or ribeye, cut into strips)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the queso sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 can diced green chilies (optional)
- For the rice:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or Spanish rice)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped)
- Optional toppings:
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced jalapeños
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
Directions
Step 1: Cook the steak
- Season the steak strips with chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest.
Step 2: Make the queso sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce begins to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded cheese and diced green chilies (if using) until melted and smooth. Season with a pinch of salt.
Step 3: Prepare the rice
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice with cumin, chili powder, and chopped cilantro. Adjust seasoning with salt to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the dish
- Divide the rice between serving plates or bowls.
- Top with the cooked steak strips and drizzle generously with queso sauce.
- Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or sour cream.
Step 5: Serve
Serve immediately and enjoy a delicious, restaurant-quality meal at home!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spicy kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the queso sauce for extra heat.
- Vegetarian option: Replace the steak with grilled mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
- Protein swap: Use chicken, shrimp, or ground beef instead of steak.
- Mexican rice: Swap plain rice for Mexican or Spanish rice for more flavor.
- Cheesy twist: Combine different cheeses like pepper jack or queso fresco for the sauce.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the steak and rice in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed. Reheat the queso sauce separately and whisk until smooth.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the queso sauce may separate upon thawing.
FAQs
What’s the best cut of steak for this recipe?
Sirloin or ribeye are great options, but flank or skirt steak works well, too.
Can I use store-bought queso?
Yes, store-bought queso can be a time-saving substitute for the homemade sauce.
How can I prevent the steak from overcooking?
Sear the steak quickly over high heat and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Medium-rare is 135°F, medium is 145°F.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use a plant-based butter and milk alternative, and substitute the cheese with a vegan queso.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the queso sauce.
What kind of rice works best?
White or brown rice are classics, but Spanish rice adds a great flavor twist.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, onions, or zucchini make excellent additions to the steak and rice.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Use lean steak, reduce the cheese in the sauce, and serve with cauliflower rice or quinoa.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Serve with a side of black beans, a fresh salad, or roasted corn for a complete meal.
Can I prepare the components ahead of time?
Yes, cook the rice and queso sauce ahead, and sear the steak just before serving for the freshest flavor.
Conclusion
Steak & Queso Rice is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines creamy, cheesy indulgence with the savory goodness of seared steak. Perfect for any occasion, this quick and easy recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Customize it with your favorite toppings and enjoy a restaurant-worthy meal in the comfort of your own home!
Print
Steak & Queso Rice
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Description
Steak & Queso Rice is a hearty, indulgent dish featuring tender, flavorful steak bites served over a bed of cheesy, creamy rice. Perfect for a satisfying dinner, this meal combines smoky, savory, and rich flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Steak:
- 1 lb (450g) steak (sirloin, ribeye, or flank), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Queso Rice:
- 1 cup uncooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
- 2 cups (480ml) chicken or beef broth
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk or heavy cream
- 1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup (60g) queso dip or prepared queso sauce
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup diced tomatoes or pico de gallo (optional)
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Cook the Rice:
- In a medium saucepan, bring the broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, and cover. Cook for 15–20 minutes (or according to package instructions) until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Prepare the Steak:
- While the rice cooks, season the steak pieces with smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the Queso Rice:
- When the rice is cooked, stir in the butter, milk or cream, shredded cheese, queso dip, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix until the cheese is melted and the rice is creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Divide the queso rice between plates or bowls. Top with the cooked steak pieces.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and add diced tomatoes or pico de gallo, if desired. Serve with lime wedges for a fresh, zesty kick.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the steak in a mixture of olive oil, lime juice, and spices for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Substitute cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
- Add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños for extra texture and flavor.