Steak Queso Rice

If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort, bold flavors, and a hint of fun, then Steak Queso Rice is just what you need! This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my household. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of seared steak, creamy queso, and fluffy rice creates a meal that everyone loves.

What makes this dish even more special is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting friends for a casual dinner or enjoying a cozy family night, Steak Queso Rice fits right in. Plus, it’s easy to whip up and can be customized to suit your taste. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 45 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for any weeknight dinner.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the cheesy goodness and flavorful steak.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the components in advance, and simply reheat for an effortless meal.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or switch up the cheese for a twist on flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients will make cooking this delicious meal a breeze! Here’s what you’ll need:

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 Garnish

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges
• Avocado slices
• Sliced jalapeños

Variations

One of the great things about Steak Queso Rice is how flexible it can be! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Try using grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms for a different spin.
• Add veggies: Toss in bell peppers or corn while cooking the steak for extra color and nutrition.
• Switch up the cheese: Use pepper jack cheese for an added kick or mix in some cream cheese for extra creaminess.
• Make it spicy: Add diced green chilies or hot sauce to the queso for those who love heat!

How to Make Steak Queso Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

Pat your steak dry with paper towels; this helps achieve that beautiful sear! Rub it with olive oil and coat both sides with paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This seasoning mix adds amazing flavor that really brings out the steak’s richness.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat a large skillet until very hot—this step is crucial! Searing your steak for 4–5 minutes per side locks in juices and gives it that mouthwatering crust. Once done, transfer it to a cutting board and let it rest. Resting allows those juices to redistribute so every bite is tender and juicy.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Rinse your rice under cold water to remove excess starch; this helps keep it fluffy. In a pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Stir in your rice and garlic powder until lightly toasted—this enhances flavor! Then add broth or water, bring it to a boil, cover it, and let it simmer on low for about 18–20 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Queso Sauce

In that same skillet used for the steak (hello flavor!), melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped garlic; cooking until fragrant—this step is all about building layers of flavor! Pour in milk and bring it gently to a simmer before gradually adding shredded cheeses while stirring until smooth. Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 5: Assemble Your Dish

Now comes the best part! Spoon fluffy rice onto plates; top with sliced steak generously drizzled with warm queso sauce. Add your favorite garnishes like fresh cilantro, lime wedges, avocado slices, and sliced jalapeños to elevate your meal.

Enjoy every cheesy bite of this delightful Steak Queso Rice!

Pro Tips for Making Steak Queso Rice

Creating the perfect Steak Queso Rice can be a delightful experience, and a few handy tips can elevate your dish even further!

• Choose the right cut of steak: Flank or sirloin steak is ideal because they are flavorful and tender when cooked properly. This ensures your dish is juicy and satisfying.
• Let the steak rest: Allowing the steak to rest after cooking helps retain its juices, making each bite succulent. If you skip this step, you might end up with dry meat.
• Toast the rice: Before adding liquid, toasting the rice in olive oil with garlic powder adds an aromatic depth and enhances the overall flavor of the dish. It’s a small step that makes a big difference!
• Gradually add cheese: When making the queso sauce, add the cheese gradually while stirring. This prevents clumping and ensures a smooth, creamy texture perfect for drizzling over your rice and steak.
• Customize your spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste. If you love heat, consider adding more chili powder or some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick!

How to Serve Steak Queso Rice

Presentation matters! Serving your Steak Queso Rice beautifully can turn a weeknight dinner into an exciting meal that everyone will enjoy.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness and color that complements the richness of the queso.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty contrast to the creamy cheese sauce.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who like it spicy, fresh jalapeños provide an excellent crunch and heat that enhances each bite.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing salad featuring corn, lime, cilantro, and cheese that pairs beautifully with the bold flavors of Steak Queso Rice.
• Black Beans: Simple but nutritious, black beans provide protein and fiber while adding a lovely earthy tone that balances well with the richness of queso.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole is always a hit! It works as both a dip or topping, providing a cool contrast that perfectly complements the warm quesos.
• Tortilla Chips: Crispy tortilla chips are great for scooping up any extra queso. They add crunch and make for a fun interactive element during mealtime.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to create a deliciously memorable dinner! Enjoy every cheesy bite of your Steak Queso Rice.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Steak Queso Rice recipe is fantastic for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a delicious and comforting dish throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow any leftovers to cool down to room temperature.
• Transfer the steak, rice, and queso sauce into airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the steak, rice, and queso sauce separately for better quality when reheating.
• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat the steak in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Gently reheat the rice in the microwave with a splash of water to steam it back to life.
• Warm the queso sauce on low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Steak Queso Rice that might help you out!

Can I use other types of cheese for Steak Queso Rice?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack for added spice or gouda for a smoky flavor. Just ensure they melt well!

How can I make Steak Queso Rice gluten-free?

To keep this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free broth and check that your cheese brands do not contain any gluten additives. Enjoy this comforting dish worry-free!

Is Steak Queso Rice suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can easily store portions in the fridge or freezer, making it convenient for busy weeknights.

What can I serve with Steak Queso Rice?

You can serve fresh salsa, tortilla chips, or a simple side salad. Adding toppings like sour cream or fresh guacamole also complements this dish beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Steak Queso Rice as I am! It’s a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort and satisfaction to any dinner table. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with loved ones, this recipe promises to be a hit. Have fun in the kitchen, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Enjoy every cheesy bite!