Steak Queso Rice

If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and ease, then you’ve found it with my Steak Queso Rice! This delightful meal brings together seared steak, cheesy queso, and fluffy rice in a way that feels both hearty and satisfying. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet special. Plus, it’s a true crowd-pleaser at family gatherings or casual get-togethers.

What makes this recipe so special is its versatility. You can whip it up in under an hour, and the cheesy goodness is sure to make everyone smile. Trust me, once you serve this dish, it’ll become a staple in your meal rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can have dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: The cheesy sauce over tender steak and rice makes it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or swap out proteins to suit your taste.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of spices and creamy queso delivers bold flavors that warm the soul.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This dish stores well, making it ideal for meal prep or enjoying again the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients should be a fun part of cooking! For this Steak Queso Rice recipe, you’ll need some simple, wholesome items that are easy to find at your local grocery store. 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 Cheesy Queso Sauce

• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! If you’re feeling adventurous or want to cater to different tastes, here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use grilled chicken or shrimp instead of steak for a different flavor profile.
• Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Mix in diced jalapeños into the queso sauce if you like an extra kick.
• Try different cheeses: Experiment with your favorite cheese blends for unique flavors.

How to Make Steak Queso Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

Pat your steak dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because it helps achieve a beautiful sear. Next, rub it down with olive oil and coat both sides generously with paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. These spices add depth to the meat’s flavor that beautifully complements the cheesy sauce.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat a large skillet until it’s very hot—this ensures a perfect sear. Place your seasoned steak in the skillet and let it sear for about 4–5 minutes per side depending on thickness and how you like it cooked. The goal here is to create a nice crust while keeping the inside tender.

Step 3: Rest and Slice the Steak

Once cooked to your liking, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. Resting is important because it allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat. After resting, slice thinly across the grain; this helps maintain tenderness with every bite.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

While your steak rests, rinse your rice under cold water until the water runs clear—this removes excess starch. In a pot over medium heat, add olive oil followed by rice and garlic powder; toast lightly for added flavor. Pour in broth or water next; bring everything to a boil before covering and simmering on low for about 18–20 minutes until fluffy.

Step 5: Make the Cheesy Queso Sauce

Using the same skillet from before (don’t wash it out!), melt butter over medium heat. Add your finely chopped garlic; cook until fragrant—about one minute. Then pour in whole milk while bringing it to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in shredded cheeses until smooth; season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper according to taste.

Step 6: Assemble Your Dish

Now it’s time for assembly! Spoon fluffy rice onto plates first; then pile on those juicy slices of steak. Finally, ladle warm queso sauce generously over everything—because who doesn’t love extra cheese? Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges for zestiness, avocado slices for creaminess, and sliced jalapeños if you’re feeling bold!

And there you have it—your very own plate of Steak Queso Rice! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Steak Queso Rice

Creating the perfect Steak Queso Rice is all about the little details! Here are some tips to elevate your dish to new heights:

• Choose the right cut: Opting for flank or sirloin steak ensures a tender and juicy bite, which is essential for this hearty meal.

• Let it rest: Allowing the steak to rest after cooking keeps the juices locked in, resulting in a more flavorful and moist slice.

• Rinse your rice: Rinsing your rice before cooking removes excess starch, yielding fluffy grains that won’t clump together.

• Melt cheese slowly: Adding cheese gradually to the warm milk helps achieve a creamy queso texture without lumps, creating a smooth and indulgent sauce.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to tweak the seasoning! Adding your favorite spices can personalize this dish and make it even more exciting.

How to Serve Steak Queso Rice

Serving Steak Queso Rice can be as fun as making it! Here are a few ideas on how to present this delightful dish that will impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro not only adds color but also a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors.
• Lime wedges: Offering lime wedges on the side allows everyone to add a zesty kick that brightens up each bite.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who love heat, adding sliced jalapeños provides an extra layer of flavor and spice.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This refreshing salad combines corn, bell peppers, red onion, cilantro, and a tangy lime dressing. It’s vibrant and goes perfectly with the bold flavors of Steak Queso Rice.

• Guacamole: Creamy avocados mixed with lime juice and spices create a delicious dip that complements the cheesy goodness of your main dish. Serve with tortilla chips for an added crunch!

• Black Bean Salad: A simple mix of black beans, corn, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro tossed together gives you a protein-packed side that’s filling and nutritious.

• Chips and Salsa: Keep things casual with some crispy tortilla chips served alongside your favorite salsa. It’s an easy appetizer that will have everyone reaching for more!

Now you’re all set to whip up some fantastic Steak Queso Rice! Enjoy every cheesy bite and share this comforting meal with those you love. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Steak Queso Rice is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy delicious, cheesy goodness throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the steak queso rice into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the steak queso rice into freezer-safe containers.
• Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion when freezing.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain creaminess.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Steak Queso Rice!

Can I use a different type of meat for Steak Queso Rice?

Absolutely! You can substitute flank or sirloin steak with chicken, turkey, or even plant-based protein for a delicious twist.

How do I keep my queso sauce from getting too thick when making Steak Queso Rice?

To prevent your queso sauce from thickening too much, stir in extra milk or broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

What can I serve with Steak Queso Rice?

This dish pairs wonderfully with fresh salsa, tortilla chips, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this flavorful and comforting Steak Queso Rice! It’s such a delightful dish that brings together bold flavors and creamy textures. Whether you’re having a cozy night in or need something quick for dinner, this recipe has got you covered. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try it!