If you’re looking for a meal that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare, Steak & Queso Rice is a winner. Tender, seared steak served on a bed of fluffy rice, all drenched in a rich, creamy queso sauce—this dish is the perfect combination of savory, cheesy goodness. Ideal for busy nights when you want something filling and flavorful, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Steak & Queso Rice dish is the ultimate comfort food with a zesty twist. The tender, well-seasoned steak pairs perfectly with the fluffy rice, and the queso sauce takes it all to the next level. The combination of sharp cheddar and creamy Monterey Jack creates a smooth, velvety sauce that coats every bite. The optional garnishes of cilantro, lime, and avocado add a fresh and zesty touch. It’s a hearty, cheesy meal that’s simple enough for beginners but full of flavor and texture that will impress anyone.

Steak & Queso Rice: A Hearty, Cheesy Meal for Busy Nights

Ingredients

For the Steak

450g (1 lb) flank or sirloin steak
1 tsp paprika
A sprinkle of salt and pepper, to your taste
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder

For the Queso Sauce

1½ cups whole milk
A pinch of salt and pepper, to your liking
½ tsp ground cumin
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
2 tbsp butter
1 tsp chili powder
2 garlic cloves, chopped finely
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

For the Rice

2 cups broth (or water if you prefer)
A bit of salt, as needed
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 tsp garlic powder

Optional Garnishes

Fresh cilantro, chopped
Wedges of lime
Slices of avocado
Cut jalapeños

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Queso Sauce: In the skillet you used for the steak, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Stir in the milk and bring it to a light simmer.
Cook the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. In a pot, heat olive oil, then stir in the rice and garlic powder to coat the grains. Toast the rice for a couple of minutes before adding the broth (or water). Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer on low for 18-20 minutes until tender.
Rest the Steak: After cooking, remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for 5-10 minutes so the juices stay locked in. Slice it thinly against the grain to maintain tenderness.
Season the Steak: Pat the steak dry with paper towels, then rub it with olive oil. Sprinkle the paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over both sides of the steak, pressing the spices into the meat.
Make the Queso Sauce: Slowly stir in the shredded cheeses, adding a handful at a time. Let each handful melt completely before adding more. Keep stirring until smooth, then season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cook the Steak: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Cook the steak for 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on thickness and your preferred doneness. For medium-rare, aim for 4 minutes per side; for medium, go for 5 minutes per side.
Serve: Pile the rice onto each plate, then top with steak strips. Drizzle the warm queso sauce over the top, ensuring everything is covered in cheesy goodness. Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, lime wedges, and jalapeños, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe serves 4 people.
Total Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes (including cooking and resting time).

Variations

Spicy Queso: Add cayenne pepper or minced jalapeños to the queso sauce to increase the heat level.
Rice Options: If you want a healthier version, you can swap the white rice for cauliflower rice, or use brown rice for added texture and flavor.
Meat Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of flank or sirloin steak, you can use chicken breast or ground beef instead.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the steak and rice separately in the microwave, and reheat the queso sauce in a pot over low heat, adding a bit of milk to maintain its creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese for the queso?

Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist. However, cheddar and Monterey Jack are the traditional choices for a creamy queso sauce.

Can I make this dish in advance?

You can prepare the rice and queso sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. The steak should be cooked fresh for the best texture, but you can slice it ahead of time and reheat it quickly before serving.

How do I get the steak to be tender?

Make sure to slice the steak against the grain, as this ensures tenderness. Also, letting the steak rest after cooking helps retain its juices, making it more tender when you slice it.

Can I use pre-cooked rice for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked rice for convenience, but freshly made rice will add a better texture and flavor to the dish.

Can I use low-fat milk for the queso sauce?

While you can use low-fat milk, full-fat milk will give the queso a richer, creamier texture. If you use a lower-fat option, the sauce may not be as thick.

What if I don’t have a skillet for the steak?

If you don’t have a skillet, you can grill the steak or use any other stovetop pan that’s large enough to handle the steak comfortably.

How can I make the steak more flavorful?

For more flavor, marinate the steak with your favorite spices or a store-bought marinade for a few hours before cooking. You can also experiment with different seasoning blends.

How do I adjust the spice level of the queso sauce?

You can adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder, cayenne, or fresh jalapeños to the queso. Start with a small amount and add more until it reaches your desired heat level.

Can I use a different type of broth for the rice?

Yes, chicken or vegetable broth adds more flavor to the rice. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use water instead of broth.

What if I don’t have cilantro for garnish?

If you don’t have cilantro, you can substitute with parsley or green onions for a fresh garnish.

Conclusion

Steak & Queso Rice is a filling, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a busy night when you want something quick yet hearty. The combination of tender steak, creamy queso, and seasoned rice is truly a crowd-pleaser. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can make this delicious meal that will leave everyone satisfied. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving a family, this dish is sure to become a regular favorite!