Steak Queso Rice

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that will satisfy the whole family, you’ve come to the right place! This Steak Queso Rice recipe combines seared steak with creamy, cheesy queso over fluffy rice, making it a dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. I love how this recipe brings together bold flavors in an easy-to-make format that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

This dish is not only tasty but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting friends for game night or just needing a quick dinner idea, Steak Queso Rice is sure to impress. Let’s dive into why this dish is a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in about 45 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: The cheesy goodness and savory steak make it a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make Ahead: You can prep the ingredients in advance for an even quicker cooking experience later.
• Flavor-Packed: With spices and creamy cheese, each bite bursts with delightful Tex-Mex flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need any fancy ingredients for this dish—just simple, wholesome items that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need to create your Steak Queso Rice:

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 things about Steak Queso Rice is its flexibility. You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand!

• Swap the protein: Try chicken breast or grilled vegetables for a lighter option.
• Change the cheese: Use pepper jack cheese for an extra kick or go dairy-free with plant-based cheese alternatives.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or corn while cooking the rice for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños into the queso sauce or top with your favorite hot sauce.

How to Make Steak Queso Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

Pat the steak dry with paper towels before rubbing it with olive oil. Coating both sides with paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper adds layers of flavor. These spices create a delicious crust when seared!

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat up a large skillet until very hot. Sear each side of the steak for 4–5 minutes based on its thickness and your preferred doneness. This step locks in juices and gives you that beautiful caramelization we all love.

Step 3: Slice and Rest

Transfer the seared steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is tender and flavorful. Slice thinly across the grain; this keeps each piece nice and juicy.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

Rinse your rice under cold water to remove excess starch. In a pot, heat olive oil and stir in rice along with garlic powder to coat. Toasting it lightly adds depth of flavor! Then add broth or water—bring it all to a boil before covering and letting it simmer on low for 18–20 minutes.

Step 5: Make the Queso Sauce

In the same skillet used for searing steak, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped garlic until fragrant—this step infuses the sauce with amazing flavor! Pour in whole milk and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Add Cheese

Gradually stir in shredded cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper according to your taste preferences. The result should be creamy perfection!

Step 7: Assemble Your Dish

To serve, spoon fluffy rice onto plates, top generously with sliced steak, then ladle warm queso sauce over everything. Finish off with fresh garnishes like cilantro, lime wedges, avocado slices, and sliced jalapeños for an exciting touch!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Steak Queso Rice! It’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!

Pro Tips for Making Steak Queso Rice

Creating the perfect Steak Queso Rice is all about the little details—here are some tips to elevate your dish!

• Let the steak rest: Allowing the steak to rest after cooking helps redistribute its juices, resulting in a more flavorful and tender bite.
• Toast the rice: Lightly toasting the rice in olive oil before adding liquid enhances its nutty flavor and gives it a lovely texture.
• Use fresh ingredients for garnishes: Fresh cilantro, lime, avocado, and jalapeños not only add color but also bring bright flavors that balance the richness of the queso.
• Adjust cheese types: Feel free to mix different types of cheese like pepper jack or gouda to create a unique queso flavor that suits your taste buds.
• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust spices according to your preference; add more chili powder for heat or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.

How to Serve Steak Queso Rice

This dish is as visually appealing as it is delicious! Presenting it well can truly enhance the dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh cilantro: Adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens up each bite, cutting through the creaminess of the queso.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who enjoy an extra kick, fresh jalapeños provide both spice and crunch.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing mix of corn, lime, cilantro, and queso fresco that adds sweetness and tang.
• Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip with lime and spices offers a rich contrast to the cheesy rice dish.
• Refried Beans: A hearty side that pairs well with the Tex-Mex flavors while adding protein and fiber.
• Tortilla Chips with Salsa: Crunchy chips served with your favorite salsa make for a perfect appetizer or snack alongside this meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Steak Queso Rice will be sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every cheesy, meaty bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Steak Queso Rice recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch and store it for quick, satisfying dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the steak, queso sauce, and rice into airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion the dish into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
• Add a splash of milk to the queso if needed to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Steak Queso Rice:

Can I use a different type of cheese for Steak Queso Rice?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for a smoky flavor. Just ensure they melt well!

How can I make Steak Queso Rice vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the steak with grilled vegetables such as zucchini and bell peppers or use black beans for protein. The queso sauce remains deliciously cheesy!

What is the best way to season the steak in Steak Queso Rice?

Using a simple blend of paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper enhances the steak’s flavor beautifully. You can adjust these spices according to your taste preference.

How long does it take to prepare Steak Queso Rice?

The total time is about 45 minutes—15 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for cooking. It’s perfect for busy weeknights!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this hearty and comforting Steak Queso Rice! It’s a delightful blend of flavors that will surely satisfy your cravings while bringing warmth to your dinner table. Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings or side dishes; there’s no wrong way to enjoy this dish! Happy cooking!