Steak Queso Rice

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day, let me introduce you to my beloved Steak Queso Rice. This recipe combines tender, seared steak with creamy queso, all served over fluffy rice. It’s comforting and packed with bold flavors—perfect for those busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

This dish holds a special place in my heart because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Everyone loves it, from kids to adults! Plus, it comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With just 45 minutes from start to finish, you can whip this up without stress.
• Comfort food at its best: The cheesy queso and savory steak make every bite feel indulgent.
• Family-friendly: This dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters; everyone loves cheese!
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the steak and queso in advance—just reheat when you’re ready to serve!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this recipe. You probably have many of these in your pantry already!

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

• 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 this Steak Queso Rice is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try chicken or beef alternatives if you’re not a fan of steak. Both work wonderfully with queso!
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for a unique flavor twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers or spinach for an extra nutritional boost.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add diced green chiles or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper for added kick!

How to Make Steak Queso Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

Pat the steak dry with paper towels. This step is crucial; it helps achieve that beautiful sear we all love! Rub the steak with olive oil and coat both sides with paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. The seasoning adds a lovely depth of flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat a large skillet until very hot. Searing creates that delicious crust while keeping the inside juicy. Cook the steak for 4–5 minutes on each side based on thickness and your preferred doneness. Once done, transfer it to a cutting board and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute so every bite is flavorful.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear—this removes excess starch and helps keep your rice fluffy. In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and stir in rice along with garlic powder until toasted lightly. Then add broth or water and bring to a boil before covering and simmering on low for 18–20 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Queso Sauce

In that same skillet used for cooking steak (don’t wash it!), melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped garlic and cook until fragrant—it smells heavenly! Pour in whole milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually add shredded cheeses while stirring until they melt into a creamy sauce. Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Assemble Your Dish

Spoon fluffy rice onto plates first. Then top with your sliced steak followed by ladling warm queso sauce over everything. Don’t forget those vibrant garnishes—fresh cilantro, lime wedges, avocado slices, and jalapeños add freshness and crunch!

And there you have it—your delicious Steak Queso Rice is ready to be enjoyed! Gather around your table and dig into this comforting meal that brings everyone together.

Pro Tips for Making Steak Queso Rice

Making Steak Queso Rice is a delightful experience, and a few expert tips can take your dish to the next level!

• Choose the right cut of steak: Flank or sirloin steak works best for this recipe as they are both tender and flavorful. This ensures that your meat is juicy and easy to slice.

• Let the steak rest: After cooking, resting the steak for 5–10 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite more succulent. It’s worth the wait!

• Toast the rice: Lightly toasting the rice in olive oil before adding liquid enhances its nutty flavor and gives a lovely texture. This simple step can elevate your dish immensely.

• Gradually add cheese: To achieve a smooth queso sauce, add the shredded cheese gradually while stirring. This prevents clumping and creates that wonderfully creamy consistency.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to tweak the spices and salt levels to suit your preferences. Don’t be shy about tasting along the way!

How to Serve Steak Queso Rice

Presenting your Steak Queso Rice can make all the difference in enjoying this hearty dish. Here are some ideas on how to serve it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness and color that contrasts beautifully with the rich queso.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty kick that complements the savory elements.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who like a bit of heat, fresh jalapeños provide an extra layer of flavor and spice.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This fresh salad combines corn, cilantro, lime juice, and cheese for a sweet and tangy side that pairs perfectly with your quesadilla rice.
• Guacamole: Creamy avocado mixed with lime juice, garlic, and spices makes for a delightful dip that balances out the richness of the queso.
• Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeños adds brightness and texture alongside your main dish.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips are perfect for scooping up any leftover queso sauce or simply enjoying on their own as an appetizer.

Enjoy crafting this comforting meal that brings warmth to your dinner table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Steak Queso Rice recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to create hearty portions that can be enjoyed throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat your delicious leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the dish cool to room temperature before storing.
• Place the steak, rice, and queso in separate airtight containers for optimal freshness.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
• Steak Queso Rice can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Heat in a microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if the rice seems dry.
• Ensure that the queso is heated gently to preserve its creamy texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Steak Queso Rice.

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

Absolutely! While cheddar and Monterey Jack are great choices, you can experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or even cream cheese for extra creaminess.

How do I make my Steak Queso Rice spicier?

To add more heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños into the queso or marinating your steak with chili powder. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side.

Can I make this Steak Queso Rice vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the steak and replace it with grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. You can also add beans for protein.

What can I serve with Steak Queso Rice?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, tortilla chips, or corn on the cob. It also makes a great filling for tacos!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting Steak Queso Rice as much as I do! It’s not only quick and satisfying but also versatile enough to adapt to your tastes. Whether you’re whipping it up for a family dinner or meal prepping for busy weekdays, it’s sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

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