The sizzling sound of steak hitting a hot skillet always brings a sense of excitement—like a mini culinary adventure unfolding right in my kitchen. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Steak Queso Rice, a dish that effortlessly combines savory steak strips, a creamy queso sauce, and perfectly seasoned rice. What sets this one-pan wonder apart is its incredible versatility: whether you’re a fan of chicken, shrimp, or even a delightful vegetarian twist with black beans and grilled veggies, there’s a delicious option for everyone. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this hearty meal is not only family-friendly but also a great one to whip up ahead of time. What toppings will you choose to personalize your bowl?
Why is Steak Queso Rice a Must-Try?
Hearty and Wholesome: This dish is everything you crave in comfort food—delicious steak, creamy queso, and fluffy rice all in one pan.
Customizable Delight: Whether you prefer succulent shrimp, juicy chicken, or a veggie-packed bowl, you can easily tailor it to fit your taste—just like our Black Beans Rice or Chicken Fajita Rice!
Family-Friendly: Perfect for both kids and adults, this recipe brings everyone together at the dinner table and transforms any day into a special occasion.
Quick and Easy: Enjoy a mouthwatering meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. In about 30 minutes, you can have dinner ready, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: With a harmonious mix of spices, creamy cheese, and savory steak, every bite is bursting with rich flavors that will have your taste buds dancing.
Get ready to impress your family and friends with this showstopper—Steak Queso Rice is the meal you’ll come back to again and again!
Steak Queso Rice Ingredients
• Create a flavorful foundation for your meal!
For the Rice
- Rice – Jasmine or basmati rice is ideal for fluffiness.
- Beef Broth – Adds a depth of flavor; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Butter – Enhances richness; margarine can be used as a substitute.
- Salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to personal taste.
- Garlic Powder – Adds a savory note to the dish.
- Smoked Paprika – Provides a subtle smokiness that complements the steak.
For the Steak
- Steak Strips – Use ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak for tenderness.
- Olive Oil – Ideal for searing steak; can be replaced with other high-heat oils.
- Black Pepper – Freshly ground for the best flavor.
- Cumin – Offers a warm, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with steak.
For the Queso Sauce
- Heavy Cream – Creates a luscious texture; non-dairy alternatives are available.
- Cream Cheese – Forms a creamy base for the sauce.
- Cheddar Cheese – Essential for melty, gooey goodness; shredded for best results.
- Monterey Jack Cheese – Complements cheddar for a rich queso flavor.
- Cayenne Pepper – Optional, for a spicy kick!
Optional Toppings
- Cilantro – Freshness to brighten up your dish.
- Diced Tomatoes – Adds color and freshness; use fresh or canned.
- Jalapeños – For those who like a little heat!
- Sour Cream – A cooling contrast to the spicy queso sauce.
With these ingredients ready, you’ll be one step closer to creating an unforgettable Steak Queso Rice experience!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Steak Queso Rice
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of beef broth, 2 tablespoons of butter, and a pinch of salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add 1 cup of jasmine or basmati rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Steak
While the rice is cooking, season 1 pound of your choice of steak strips with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin to taste. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the steak strips and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until they reach your desired doneness, ideally medium-rare. Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Step 3: Make the Queso Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and allow it to heat gently. Begin adding 4 ounces of cream cheese, stirring continuously until it melts into the cream. Gradually mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar and 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese, continuing to stir until everything is well combined and smooth. Sprinkle in garlic powder and cayenne pepper for extra flavor, and keep the sauce warm.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
To serve your delectable Steak Queso Rice, divide the fluffy rice among four bowls. Top each portion with the sliced steak and generously drizzle the warm queso sauce over the top. Don’t hold back—allow the creamy goodness to cascade down. Customize your bowls with optional toppings such as fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy the deliciousness!
Make Ahead Options
Steak Queso Rice is a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the rice and queso sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the rice according to the instructions, let it cool, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. For the queso sauce, keep it in a separate container and reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring to maintain that creamy texture. When you’re ready to serve, cook the steak strips fresh to ensure they remain juicy and tender—this only takes about 8 minutes. By prepping in advance, you save time while enjoying a delicious, homemade meal that tastes just as incredible as when freshly made!
Steak Queso Rice Variations & Substitutions
Customize your dish to make every meal an exciting culinary adventure!
- Chicken Swap: Use grilled or shredded chicken for a lighter twist that’s just as delicious.
- Shrimp Delight: Sauté shrimp for a seafood-inspired version that pairs beautifully with the creamy queso.
- Vegetarian Bliss: Replace steak with black beans and an assortment of grilled veggies for a vibrant, veggie-packed bowl.
- Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat by adding jalapeños or a sprinkle of spicy paprika to the queso.
- Quinoa Base: For a gluten-free option, substitute rice with quinoa, offering a nutty flavor and added protein.
- Cheesy Variations: Try incorporating different cheeses like pepper jack for a zesty kick, or goat cheese for a tangy finish.
- Herb-Infused: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can be tossed into the rice for a fragrant kick, just like in my Autumn Wild Rice recipe.
- Extra Crunch: Top your dish with crushed tortilla chips for a delightful crunch and more texture.
Embrace the joy of customizing your Steak Queso Rice, and make it a family favorite each and every time!
What to Serve with Steak Queso Rice
Elevate your dining experience with delightful accompaniments that bring out the best in your flavorful dish.
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Crispy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping up the creamy queso, adding a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft rice.
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Guacamole: Creamy and fresh, guacamole adds a burst of flavor and texture, perfect for balancing the richness of the queso and steak.
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Zesty Corn Salad: A refreshing mix of sweet corn, lime juice, and cilantro complements the hearty meal while introducing a light, bright flavor.
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Spicy Black Beans: Add a flavorful twist with seasoned black beans that pair wonderfully with the steak and provide a protein boost.
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Light Salad: A simple arugula or mixed greens salad drizzled with a citrus vinaigrette offers a fresh touch, cutting through the richness of the dish.
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Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime over the top brings a burst of acidity that enhances all the flavors and adds an extra zing.
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Chilled Beer or Margaritas: A cold beverage, whether it’s a light lager or a zesty margarita, complements the Tex-Mex flavors perfectly, making your meal feel festive.
Each of these sides creates a beautiful balance, ensuring your Steak Queso Rice shines even brighter as the star of the dinner table!
Expert Tips for Steak Queso Rice
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Quality Ingredients: Use the best quality steak you can find, such as ribeye or flank, for maximum flavor and tenderness in your Steak Queso Rice.
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Cooking Temperature: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the steak. This helps achieve a beautiful sear while keeping the inside juicy—avoid overcrowding the pan!
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Queso Consistency: For a perfectly smooth queso sauce, gradually add cheese and stir on low heat. This prevents the sauce from becoming grainy or clumpy.
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Don’t Rush the Rice: Fluff the rice gently after cooking and let it sit covered for a few minutes before serving to enhance its texture and prevent stickiness.
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Customize Smartly: Feel free to add your favorite protein or extra veggies! Even small changes can create a whole new experience. Enjoy making this dish your own!
How to Store and Freeze Steak Queso Rice
Fridge: Store leftover Steak Queso Rice in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of broth for moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the components separately. Rice and steak can be kept for up to 3 months, while the queso sauce lasts about 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat steak in a skillet and sauce gently on low heat.
Assembly: For the best texture and taste, it’s recommended to assemble your Steak Queso Rice just before serving, keeping the ingredients separate until then.
Steak Queso Rice Recipe FAQs
What type of steak should I choose for my Steak Queso Rice?
Absolutely! I recommend using well-marbled cuts such as ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak for added tenderness and flavor. Ensure the steak is fresh and high-quality to get that delicious, melt-in-the-mouth texture.
How should I store leftover Steak Queso Rice?
Store your leftover Steak Queso Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth to keep it moist and flavorful.
Can I freeze Steak Queso Rice?
Yes! For long-term storage, it’s best to freeze the components separately. The steak and rice can be frozen for up to 3 months, while the queso sauce lasts about 2 months. Make sure to let everything cool completely before placing in freezer-safe bags or containers.
What if my queso sauce is too thick?
Oh no! If your queso sauce turns out too thick, simply add a small amount of milk or more heavy cream, stirring continuously over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency. This will help make it creamy and smooth again.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian option?
Very! You can substitute the steak with black beans and various grilled vegetables to create a hearty vegetarian version of your Steak Queso Rice. Just ensure your queso sauce uses non-dairy alternatives if needed!
How can I ensure my rice doesn’t stick together?
To avoid sticky rice, fluff it gently with a fork after cooking and let it sit covered for a few minutes before serving. Using jasmine or basmati rice helps too, as they tend to remain fluffy when cooked!
Steak Queso Rice: A Creamy, Hearty Delight in One Pan
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan, combine beef broth, butter, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil, then add rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Fluff the rice and set aside.
- Season steak strips with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook steak for 3-4 minutes per side until desired doneness. Remove and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream. Add cream cheese and stir until melted. Gradually mix in cheddar and Monterey Jack until smooth. Sprinkle with garlic powder and cayenne pepper, keeping warm.
- Divide rice among four bowls, top with sliced steak and drizzle with queso sauce. Customize with optional toppings and serve immediately.
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