Steak Queso Rice is a flavorful, hearty dish that combines tender steak, creamy queso, and perfectly cooked rice into one satisfying meal. With juicy strips of seasoned steak, melted cheese, and a rich, savory sauce, this dish is a complete meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something indulgent yet easy to prepare. It’s packed with protein, cheesy goodness, and plenty of flavor that everyone at the table will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Steak Queso Rice is the ultimate comfort food that’s rich in flavor and easy to make. The combination of perfectly seared steak, creamy queso sauce, and fluffy rice creates a balanced meal that’s full of savory goodness. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, meal prep, or as a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this recipe delivers in both taste and texture. The queso sauce adds a luscious, cheesy layer to the steak and rice, while the steak provides that rich, meaty flavor that’s satisfying and delicious.

Ingredients

For the steak:

• 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, sliced thinly against the grain

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp chili powder

• 1/2 tsp cumin

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the queso:

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup cream cheese

• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

• 1/4 tsp onion powder

• 1/4 tsp ground cumin (optional, for extra flavor)

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the rice:

• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (you can also use quinoa for a healthier alternative)

• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for fluffing the rice)

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

Directions

1. Prepare the steak:

• In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Season the sliced steak with the spice mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated.

• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak slices and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the steak is cooked through and browned. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.

2. Make the queso:

• In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

• Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.

• Add the shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.

3. Combine the steak, rice, and queso:

• Add the cooked rice to the skillet with the queso sauce. Stir to coat the rice with the cheesy sauce.

• Add the cooked steak to the skillet and mix everything together, allowing the steak to heat through and soak up the cheesy goodness.

4. Serve:

• Serve the Steak Queso Rice hot, garnished with extra shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, or a squeeze of lime if desired.

5. Enjoy:

• Enjoy this flavorful, cheesy dish that’s loaded with tender steak, creamy queso, and perfectly cooked rice!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the rice for added flavor and nutrition.

• Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the queso for an extra kick.

• Ground beef or chicken: If you prefer ground meat, substitute the steak with ground beef, turkey, or chicken for a different twist on the dish.

• Rice alternatives: Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb version, or quinoa for a healthier, protein-packed alternative.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Steak Queso Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen up the queso sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, you can use other cuts like ribeye, sirloin, or skirt steak, but flank steak is great because it’s flavorful and easy to slice thinly.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the steak and make the queso in advance. Store them separately and reheat them together when ready to assemble with the rice.

3. Can I make the queso spicy?

Absolutely! Add diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the queso to make it as spicy as you like.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese?

While cheddar works well for the queso, you can experiment with other melty cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even mozzarella for a different flavor.

5. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice is a great alternative, and it adds more fiber to the dish.

6. Can I make this dish without cheese?

If you’re avoiding cheese, you can make a creamy version of this dish by using a dairy-free cheese or substituting the queso sauce with a cashew cream or avocado-based sauce.

7. Can I add beans to this dish?

Yes! Black beans or pinto beans would be a great addition to this dish for extra protein and texture.

8. Can I make this a vegetarian dish?

Yes, simply swap the steak for extra veggies or a plant-based protein like tofu, tempeh, or seasoned portobello mushrooms.

9. How do I keep the rice from getting too dry?

Make sure to add enough of the creamy queso sauce to coat the rice evenly, and feel free to add a little extra milk or broth when reheating to maintain the creaminess.

10. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the Steak Queso Rice for up to 2 months. Store it in an airtight container, and reheat it thoroughly when you’re ready to enjoy it.

Conclusion

Steak Queso Rice is the ultimate comfort food with a cheesy, meaty, and flavorful combination that’s sure to satisfy your hunger. The creamy queso sauce pairs perfectly with the tender steak and fluffy rice, creating a dish that’s rich in flavor and full of satisfying textures. Whether you’re making it for dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe will quickly become a go-to for those who love cheesy, savory dishes with a little extra flair.