Steak Queso Rice

If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and a touch of cheesy goodness, you’ve come to the right place! One of my absolute favorite meals to whip up after a long day is Steak Queso Rice. This delightful dish features seared steak topped with creamy queso over fluffy rice, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. It’s quick, satisfying, and always hits the spot!

What makes this recipe special is how adaptable it is; you can easily customize it to suit your taste buds. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to some delicious comfort food, Steak Queso Rice will become a go-to in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this mouthwatering meal ready in under an hour!
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness and tender steak.
• Satisfying flavors: The combination of spices and creamy queso creates a dish bursting with flavor that everyone will enjoy.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make extra servings for leftovers or pack it for lunch—this dish tastes great even the next day!
• Customizable toppings: Add your favorite garnishes like fresh cilantro or avocado slices to make each plate unique.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this recipe, we’ll be using simple and wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Steak

• 450g (1 lb) flank or sirloin steak
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder

For the Queso Sauce

• 1½ cups whole milk
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

For the Rice

• 2 cups broth or water
• Salt, as needed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 tsp garlic powder

For Garnishing

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges
• Avocado slices
• Sliced jalapeños

Variations

One of the best parts about Steak Queso Rice is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: If steak isn’t your thing, try grilled chicken or sautéed veggies for a delicious twist.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack for an extra kick!
• Add some beans: Throw in black beans or pinto beans for added protein and fiber.
• Try different grains: Use quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of white rice for a healthier option.

How to Make Steak Queso Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

Pat your steak dry with paper towels. This step helps achieve that wonderful sear we all love! Rub olive oil all over the steak and coat both sides with paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. These spices add depth and flavor that elevate this dish.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat a large skillet until very hot. This is key for getting that perfect crust on your steak! Sear it for 4–5 minutes on each side based on thickness and how well done you prefer it. Once done, transfer it to a cutting board to rest for 5–10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute so every bite remains juicy.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Rinse your rice under cold water until the water runs clear—this removes excess starch and keeps it fluffy. In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Stir in the rice along with garlic powder to coat each grain lightly. Toasting it adds a nice nutty flavor! Then add broth or water and bring everything to boil. Cover and simmer on low heat for 18–20 minutes until tender.

Step 4: Make the Queso Sauce

In that same skillet used for searing your steak (hello, flavor!), melt butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped garlic and cook until fragrant—just about one minute will do! Pour in milk and bring it to a gentle simmer before gradually stirring in shredded cheeses until smooth and creamy. Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Assemble Your Dish

Now comes the fun part! Spoon fluffy rice onto plates, top generously with sliced steak, then ladle warm queso sauce over everything. Don’t forget those tasty garnishes like fresh cilantro, lime wedges, avocado slices, and sliced jalapeños—they add flavor and color!

And there you have it—a comforting bowl of Steak Queso Rice that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Steak Queso Rice

Making the perfect Steak Queso Rice is easier than you think! With a few simple tips, you can elevate your dish to a whole new level.

• Choose the right cut of steak: Flank or sirloin steak is ideal because they are tender and flavorful when cooked properly. This ensures each bite is juicy and satisfying.

• Don’t skip the resting time: Letting your steak rest for 5–10 minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and flavorful. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

• Toast your rice: Briefly toasting the rice in olive oil before adding liquid enhances its nutty flavor. This small step adds depth to your dish and makes it even more delicious.

• Gradually add cheese: When making your queso sauce, adding cheese gradually helps achieve that smooth, creamy texture. This prevents clumping and ensures every bite is cheesy goodness.

• Customize your toppings: Feel free to get creative with garnishes! Adding ingredients like fresh cilantro, lime juice, or avocado not only adds freshness but also personalizes your dish to suit your tastes.

How to Serve Steak Queso Rice

Presentation is key when serving this delicious meal! A well-arranged plate can make all the difference in how appetizing your dish looks.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh cilantro: This herb adds a burst of freshness and visual appeal to your dish.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime over the top enhances flavors with a zesty kick.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who enjoy a bit more heat, jalapeños provide both spice and color.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: A delightful mix of grilled corn, creamy dressing, and spices that complements the flavors in your main dish beautifully.
• Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide a rich and hearty side that pairs perfectly with the cheesy quesos.
• Guacamole: This classic avocado dip not only brings creaminess but also balances out the bold flavors of the Steak Queso Rice.
• Tortilla Chips: Crispy tortilla chips can serve as a crunchy element on the side or even as an additional dipping option for your queso sauce.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress friends and family with your Steak Queso Rice! Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Steak Queso Rice recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, making dinner time a breeze. Here’s how you can store and manage your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the steak queso rice to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Separate the queso sauce from the rice and steak if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing

• Portion the steak quesadilla into freezer-safe containers or bags for easy meals later.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• For best results, freeze only the rice and queso; add fresh steak when reheating.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Have some questions? I’ve got you covered!

Can I make Steak Queso Rice ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge, just reheat when ready to eat!

What goes well with Steak Queso Rice?

This dish pairs wonderfully with fresh toppings like avocado slices, cilantro, lime wedges, or jalapeños. They add flavor and freshness that complements the creamy queso.

How do I store leftover Steak Queso Rice?

To store leftovers, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for about 3 days.

Can I use other types of cheese in Steak Queso Rice?

Definitely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Just ensure they melt well for that creamy queso goodness.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Steak Queso Rice recipe as delightful as I do! It’s not only comforting but also so versatile for any weeknight dinner. Enjoy making this dish with your loved ones, and don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite toppings. Happy cooking!

---

Dinner