Jump to Recipe Print RecipeStepping into my kitchen feels like embarking on a flavorful adventure, especially when I whip up a Creamy Steak Queso Rice Bowl. This dish marries juicy steak strips with a velvety queso sauce, all nestled atop a bed of perfectly seasoned rice—it’s a crowd-pleaser without the fuss! Whether you’re facing a busy weeknight or savoring a weekend of home-cooked bliss, this Steak Queso Rice offers the ideal balance of comfort and bold flavors. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit any taste or dietary preference, making it a versatile meal for everyone to enjoy. Curious to see how this hearty delight transforms your dinner routine? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe! Why is Steak Queso Rice a Must-Try? Unmatched Flavor: This dish features tender steak strips that soak up bold spices, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Creamy Indulgence: The velvety queso sauce drizzled atop your rice adds a delicious richness that elevates simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Customizable Options: Whether you’re a meat-lover or a vegetarian, you can easily swap steak for shrimp or black beans, just like in my Cheesy Rice Casserole for a tasty twist. Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy nights, this meal comes together in no time, allowing you to enjoy gourmet flavors without the hassle. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether serving family or friends, this hearty dish is sure to impress and satisfy. 🥳 Steak Queso Rice Ingredients For the Steak and Rice • Steak Strips – Adds hearty protein; substitute with chicken or shrimp for delicious variation. • Olive Oil – Used for sautéing the steak; any cooking oil can substitute. • Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances flavor; adjust to taste for the perfect seasoning. • Garlic Powder – Provides savory depth; fresh garlic can also be a great option. • Paprika – Adds warmth and vibrant color; smoked paprika gives a deeper flavor profile. • Cumin – Offers an earthy taste that perfectly complements the steak. • Jasmine/Basmati Rice – Forms the base of the dish; for a healthier option, quinoa is a great substitute. • Beef Broth – Infuses flavor into the rice; vegetable broth can replace for a vegetarian alternative. • Butter – Adds richness to the rice; vegan butter is a suitable alternative. For the Creamy Queso Sauce • Cheddar & Monterey Jack Cheese – Create the deliciously creamy sauce; experiment with any blend of cheeses for variety. • Heavy Cream & Cream Cheese – Provide a luxuriously creamy consistency; use milk or a non-dairy alternative for a lighter version. • Cayenne Pepper – Adds a kick; adjust for a mild or more fiery dish as desired. For Garnishing • Fresh Cilantro – Adds a pop of freshness; omit or substitute with parsley if preferred. • Jalapeño – Infuses heat and flavor; remove seeds for less spice or use a milder pepper. • Sour Cream & Diced Tomatoes – Optional toppings for extra creaminess and freshness. Enjoy gathering these ingredients for your hearty Steak Queso Rice—your taste buds will thank you! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Steak Queso Rice Step 1: Cook the Rice In a medium saucepan, combine beef broth, butter, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, stir in jasmine or basmati rice, reduce the heat to low, and cover the pot. Simmer for 15–18 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is fluffy. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork before setting aside. Step 2: Season & Cook the Steak While the rice cooks, prepare the steak. In a bowl, season the steak strips generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear the steak strips for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and reach your desired doneness. Let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Step 3: Prepare Queso Sauce In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream over low heat until warmed through. Add the cream cheese and stir until melted and well-blended. Gradually mix in shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring continuously until the queso sauce is creamy and smooth. Add garlic powder and cayenne pepper for extra flavor, then keep the sauce warm on low heat. Step 4: Assemble the Bowl To create your Steak Queso Rice Bowl, divide the fluffy rice between individual bowls. Layer the sliced steak strips on top of the rice, allowing the juices to soak in. Drizzle the warm queso sauce generously over the steak to create a luscious, creamy foundation for this satisfying meal. Step 5: Garnish & Serve Finally, garnish your bowls with chopped fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and diced tomatoes for a pop of color and freshness. You can also add a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess, if desired. Serve your hearty Steak Queso Rice bowls immediately to enjoy warm and delicious flavors! How to Store and Freeze Steak Queso Rice Fridge: Store any leftover Steak Queso Rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep the flavors fresh and preserve the creamy texture of the queso sauce. Freezer: You can freeze the components separately—steak, rice, and queso sauce—for up to 2 months. This ensures you have flavorful meal options ready whenever needed. Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm the steak and queso sauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently until heated through. Component Storage: For best results, keep the steak, rice, and queso sauce stored separately to maintain optimal textures, assembling the Steak Queso Rice right before serving. Make Ahead Options These Steak Queso Rice bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! To save time on busy weeknights, you can cook the rice and prepare the queso sauce up to 3 days in advance. Simply refrigerate these components separately in airtight containers. Also, pre-season and cook the steak strips ahead of time, but it’s best to sear them no more than 24 hours before serving to maintain tenderness. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Steak Queso Rice, reheat the rice and queso gently on the stove or in the microwave. Assemble the bowls with freshly warmed steak and toppings for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort! What to Serve with Steak Queso Rice Delight in creating a full meal experience that complements the rich, creamy flavors of your dish. Crispy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for dipping into that luscious queso sauce, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite. Fresh Green Salad: A refreshing side of mixed greens tossed in a light vinaigrette balances the hearty flavors, brightening your plate. Grilled Veggies: Seasonal vegetables bring a smoky sweetness, enhancing the joy of classic Tex-Mex flavors without overpowering the dish. Mexican Street Corn Salad: Bold and creamy, this salad adds a delightful sweetness and a hint of spice that harmonizes beautifully with the main course. Guacamole: The creamy avocado adds richness and a touch of zest, complementing the steak and queso while providing a different texture. Margaritas: Serve a zesty margarita, if you like, to elevate the dinner experience, pairing beautifully with the savory notes of steak. Each pairing offers a unique texture and flavor, making your meal both diverse and delicious! Expert Tips for Steak Queso Rice Quality Matters: Use high-quality steak like ribeye or flank for rich flavor; lower-quality cuts can lead to toughness. Don’t Rush Resting: Allow your steak to rest for 5 minutes after cooking to lock in juices, ensuring tenderness in your steak queso rice. Gentle Queso Heating: Warm the queso sauce slowly to prevent graininess; adding cheese too quickly can lead to a lumpy texture. Fluffing the Rice: Fluff the rice with a fork after cooking to keep it light and fluffy; overcooking or crowding can make it gummy. Watch Your Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking steak; aim for medium-rare to medium for the best results in your steak queso rice bowl. Freshly Shred Cheese: Always use freshly shredded cheese for the sauce, as it melts better and ensures a smoother, creamier consistency. Steak Queso Rice Variations & Substitutions Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this comforting dish to suit your tastes and dietary needs! Chicken or Shrimp: Substitute steak with grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for delicious alternatives. Both add a twist while keeping the protein punch! Vegetarian Option: Swap the steak for black beans and grilled veggies for a hearty, plant-based meal. It’s packed with flavor and a vibrant mix of textures. Quinoa Substitute: For a healthier base, replace jasmine or basmati rice with quinoa. This nutty grain elevates the dish while boosting protein and fiber. Dairy-Free Queso: Use dairy-free cheese and coconut cream to create a luscious and creamy sauce suitable for lactose-intolerant friends or those avoiding dairy. Heat Levels: For an added kick, toss in chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper in your queso. Adjust the spice level to your liking for an extra flavor bomb! Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheese combinations like pepper jack for a spicier sauce, or even try goat cheese for a tangy twist. Your queso will never be boring! Fresh Herb Options: If you’re out of cilantro, parsley works as a great substitute for a fresh finishing touch. You can also omit it entirely if herbs aren’t your thing! Topping Ideas: Top with diced avocado or a squeeze of lime juice for bright, zesty flavor. Just like my Cottage Cheese Queso, these additions enhance freshness in every bowl. Explore these options, and you’ll find the perfect variation that speaks to your taste buds! Steak Queso Rice Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best steak for my Steak Queso Rice? Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using high-quality cuts like ribeye or flank steak. These cuts are tender and juicy, making them perfect for this dish. Look for meat that has a good amount of marbling, as this will add rich flavor when cooked. What’s the best way to store leftovers of Steak Queso Rice? Store any leftover Steak Queso Rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the steak, rice, and queso sauce stored separately to maintain their textures. Just reassemble when you’re ready to enjoy it again! Can I freeze Steak Queso Rice? Yes! You can freeze the individual components of your steak queso rice. Store the steak, rice, and queso sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop. What should I do if the queso sauce turns grainy? No worries—this can happen! If your queso sauce gets grainy, it’s likely due to heating too quickly or using pre-shredded cheese. To fix it, lower the heat and stir in a splash of milk or cream while continuously mixing until smooth. For future batches, make sure to use freshly shredded cheese and heat slowly. Are there any dietary alternatives I can consider for this recipe? Very! You can easily customize your Steak Queso Rice to meet different dietary preferences. For a vegetarian option, substitute the steak with black beans or grilled veggies, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider using quinoa in place of rice and opting for non-dairy cheese and cream options. How long should I let the steak rest after cooking? Letting the steak rest for about 5 minutes after cooking is crucial! This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that every bite is juicy and tender. It might seem like a small step, but it makes a world of difference in your dish. Steak Queso Rice Recipe FAQs Savor Every Bite of Hearty Steak Queso Rice at Home Experience the delicious blend of juicy steak strips, creamy queso sauce, and seasoned rice in this hearty Steak Queso Rice recipe. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: MexicanCalories: 650 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Steak and Rice1 lb Steak Strips Adds hearty protein; substitute with chicken or shrimp for delicious variation.2 tbsp Olive Oil Used for sautéing the steak; any cooking oil can substitute.1 tsp Salt Enhances flavor; adjust to taste for the perfect seasoning.1 tsp Black Pepper Enhances flavor; adjust to taste for the perfect seasoning.1 tsp Garlic Powder Provides savory depth; fresh garlic can also be a great option.1 tsp Paprika Adds warmth and vibrant color; smoked paprika gives a deeper flavor profile.1 tsp Cumin Offers an earthy taste that perfectly complements the steak.1 cup Jasmine/Basmati Rice Forms the base of the dish; for a healthier option, quinoa is a great substitute.2 cups Beef Broth Infuses flavor into the rice; vegetable broth can replace for a vegetarian alternative.2 tbsp Butter Adds richness to the rice; vegan butter is a suitable alternative.For the Creamy Queso Sauce1 cup Cheddar Cheese Create the deliciously creamy sauce; experiment with any blend of cheeses for variety.1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese Create the deliciously creamy sauce; experiment with any blend of cheeses for variety.1 cup Heavy Cream Provide a luxuriously creamy consistency; use milk or a non-dairy alternative for a lighter version.4 oz Cream Cheese Provide a luxuriously creamy consistency; use milk or a non-dairy alternative for a lighter version.1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper Adds a kick; adjust for a mild or more fiery dish as desired.For Garnishing1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Adds a pop of freshness; omit or substitute with parsley if preferred.1 pc Jalapeño Infuses heat and flavor; remove seeds for less spice or use a milder pepper.1/2 cup Sour Cream Optional toppings for extra creaminess and freshness.1/2 cup Diced Tomatoes Optional toppings for extra creaminess and freshness. Equipment Medium saucepanLarge skilletSmall saucepanFork Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a medium saucepan, combine beef broth, butter, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, stir in jasmine or basmati rice, reduce the heat to low, and cover the pot. Simmer for 15–18 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is fluffy. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork before setting aside.While the rice cooks, prepare the steak. In a bowl, season the steak strips generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear the steak strips for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and reach your desired doneness. Let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing.In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream over low heat until warmed through. Add the cream cheese and stir until melted and well-blended. Gradually mix in shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring continuously until the queso sauce is creamy and smooth. Add garlic powder and cayenne pepper for extra flavor, then keep the sauce warm on low heat.To create your Steak Queso Rice Bowl, divide the fluffy rice between individual bowls. Layer the sliced steak strips on top of the rice, allowing the juices to soak in. Drizzle the warm queso sauce generously over the steak to create a luscious, creamy foundation for this satisfying meal.Finally, garnish your bowls with chopped fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and diced tomatoes for a pop of color and freshness. You can also add a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess, if desired. Serve your hearty Steak Queso Rice bowls immediately to enjoy warm and delicious flavors! Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 40gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg NotesAllow steak to rest for 5 minutes after cooking for tenderness. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
