Name: Steak Queso Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
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

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If you’re looking for a hearty and indulgent rice bowl recipe, this Steak Queso Rice is a perfect choice! This dish is a delightful combination of tender steak, creamy queso, and fluffy rice that is sure to impress. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this recipe brings everyone together around the table. The layers of flavor in this meal make it a true favorite in my kitchen, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves cheese and steak! This dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Cook the components ahead of time and combine them when you’re ready to eat. Perfect for meal prep!
Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and creamy queso elevates simple ingredients into a flavorful delight that you’ll crave again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Steak Queso Rice is easy with these simple, wholesome ingredients. Gather them up, and let’s get cooking!

For the Steak

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

For the Rice

1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon butter
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Queso Sauce

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)

For Garnishing

2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
1 jalapeño, sliced
1 tablespoon sour cream
½ cup diced tomatoes

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make it your own.

Swap the protein: Try using chicken or shrimp instead of steak for a different flavor profile.
Change up the cheese: If you prefer a milder taste, use mozzarella or even vegan cheese alternatives.
Make it spicy: Add diced green chilies or extra jalapeños for an added kick!
Go vegetarian: Substitute steak with sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for a delicious meatless option.

How to Make Steak Queso Rice : A Flavorful Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, bring beef broth, butter, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to a boil. This flavor-packed liquid will infuse the rice with deliciousness! Once boiling, add your rice. Reduce the heat to low, cover it tightly, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork after cooking and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Steak

In a bowl, season those steak strips with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin. These spices will enhance every bite! Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your seasoned steak and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Don’t forget to let it rest for 5 minutes after cooking—this helps keep it juicy!

Step 3: Prepare the Queso Sauce

In a small saucepan over low heat, gently warm the heavy cream. Add cream cheese and stir until it melts into a smooth mixture. Gradually add your shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses while stirring constantly. This step ensures your queso sauce is silky smooth! Mix in garlic powder and cayenne pepper if you want some heat. Keep this warm on low heat while you assemble everything.

Step 4: Assemble the Steak Queso Rice Bowl

Now comes the fun part! Divide your cooked rice into serving bowls. Top each portion generously with those flavorful steak strips. Drizzle that luscious queso sauce over everything—trust me; you’ll want every drop.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finally, add some fresh toppings like chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, or even a dollop of sour cream if you’d like! Serve immediately while everything is warm and gooey. Enjoy every bite of your delicious Steak Queso Rice bowl!

This dish will surely become one of your go-to recipes for any occasion!

Pro Tips for Making Steak Queso Rice : A Flavorful Recipe

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your Steak Queso Rice to new heights!

Choose the Right Cut of Steak: Using sirloin, flank, or ribeye ensures tenderness and flavor. Each cut offers a unique taste profile, so pick one that suits your palate.
Let the Steak Rest: Allowing the steak to rest for 5 minutes after cooking helps retain its juices. This means every bite will be succulent and flavorful.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cilantro and ripe tomatoes bring brightness to the dish. Using fresh ingredients elevates the overall taste and makes your meal feel special.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, skip the cayenne pepper. Tailor the spiciness to your liking for a more enjoyable dining experience.
Make Extra Queso Sauce: Everyone loves a cheesy drizzle! Making extra queso sauce allows you to serve it on the side for dipping or drizzling over leftovers.

How to Serve Steak Queso Rice : A Flavorful Recipe

Presenting your Steak Queso Rice beautifully can make it even more appetizing. Here are some ideas to impress your family and friends!

Garnishes

Chopped Cilantro: Adds a fresh touch and enhances the visual appeal of your dish.
Diced Avocado: Creamy avocado complements the flavors and adds healthy fats.
Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime brightens up the dish, providing a zesty kick.

Side Dishes

Mexican Street Corn Salad: This colorful salad combines corn, lime juice, cilantro, and spices for a refreshing side that balances richness.
Black Bean Salad: Packed with protein and fiber, black beans mixed with diced onions, peppers, and a tangy dressing make for a nutritious complement.
Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: The creamy guacamole pairs perfectly with crunchy chips, offering a fun texture contrast before indulging in your rice bowl.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus grilled with olive oil provide a deliciously smoky flavor that rounds out your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re ready to create an unforgettable dining experience with your Steak Queso Rice! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Steak Queso Rice is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and store it for future meals, ensuring you have a hearty dish ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the Steak Queso Rice to cool completely before storing.
Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Enjoy your leftovers within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

Portion the rice and steak mixture into freezer-safe containers or bags.
Label each container with the date and contents to keep track.
Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, consume within this timeframe.

Reheating

Thaw the frozen Steak Queso Rice overnight in the refrigerator.
To reheat, use a microwave or stovetop:
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of beef broth or water in a pan over medium heat and stir until warmed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this flavorful recipe!

Can I make Steak Queso Rice without beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute the steak with grilled chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. The queso sauce will still complement whatever protein you choose!

What can I serve with Steak Queso Rice?

Steak Queso Rice is delicious on its own, but you can enhance your meal with sides like guacamole, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad for a complete dining experience.

How do I spice up my Steak Queso Rice?

If you want to add more heat, consider using spicy pepper jack cheese in place of regular Monterey Jack or adding more cayenne pepper to your queso sauce. Customize it to your preference!

How long does it take to prepare Steak Queso Rice?

This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, making it ready in just 35 minutes—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Steak Queso Rice! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and flavor that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings. Happy cooking!

Steak Queso Rice

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Author: Amelia
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mexican

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Description

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting and satisfying meal, look no further than this Steak Queso Rice. This recipe combines tender steak strips with fluffy rice and a rich, creamy queso sauce, creating layers of flavor that will satisfy your cravings. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish is both delicious and easy to prepare. With vibrant garnishes like fresh cilantro and tomatoes, it’s as visually appealing as it is tasty. Ready in just 35 minutes, this hearty rice bowl is bound to become a favorite in your home!

Ingredients

Scale

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

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Instructions

Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring beef broth, butter, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to a boil. Add the rice, cover tightly, and simmer for 15-18 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
Season and Cook the Steak: Season steak strips with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the steak for about 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Let it rest for 5 minutes.
Prepare the Queso Sauce: In a small saucepan over low heat, warm heavy cream and melt in cream cheese. Gradually add shredded cheeses while stirring until smooth. Mix in garlic powder and cayenne pepper if desired.
Assemble: Divide cooked rice into bowls, top with steak strips and drizzle with queso sauce.
Garnish: Add fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, or sour cream as desired.