If you’re craving a hearty, flavor-packed rice bowl, this Steak Queso Rice is your new go-to comfort food. Juicy, perfectly seasoned steak strips meet creamy, melty queso sauce over fluffy, seasoned rice — a combination that’s indulgent, satisfying, and ready in about 35 minutes.
Perfect for busy weeknights, weekend treats, or when you want a homemade steak bowl that rivals restaurant quality, this recipe delivers bold flavors in every bite. Whether you’re a steak enthusiast or a cheese lover, you’re going to want seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Loaded with Flavor – Juicy steak, creamy queso, and seasoned rice in every forkful.
- Quick & Easy – Minimal prep and cooks in under 40 minutes.
- One-Pan Friendly – Less mess, easy cleanup.
- Customizable – Swap proteins, cheeses, or add veggies.
- Meal Prep Approved – Keeps well for next-day lunches.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Steak:
- 1 lb steak strips (sirloin, flank, or ribeye)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
For the Rice:
- 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp butter
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
For the Queso Sauce:
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp cream cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped cilantro
- Sliced jalapeño
- Diced tomatoes
- Sour cream
Kitchen Equipment
- Large skillet or grill pan (for steak)
- Medium saucepan (for rice)
- Small saucepan (for queso)
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula or tongs
How to Make Steak Queso Rice
1. Cook the Rice
In a medium saucepan, bring beef broth, butter, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to a boil. Add rice, lower heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15–18 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
2. Season & Cook the Steak
In a bowl, toss steak strips with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak for 3–4 minutes per side, or until desired doneness. Let rest 5 minutes before slicing.
3. Make the Queso Sauce
In a small saucepan over low heat, warm heavy cream. Stir in cream cheese until melted. Gradually add cheddar and Monterey Jack, stirring until smooth. Mix in garlic powder and cayenne pepper. Keep warm.
4. Assemble the Bowls
Spoon rice into serving bowls. Top with steak strips and drizzle generously with queso sauce.
5. Garnish & Serve
Add toppings like cilantro, tomatoes, jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream. Serve immediately.
Expert Tips
- Use high-quality steak for best flavor and tenderness.
- Let steak rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Keep queso over low heat to prevent graininess.
- Fluff rice after cooking to avoid clumping.
Avoid These Mistakes
- Overcooking steak (medium-rare to medium is best).
- Using pre-shredded cheese (freshly shredded melts smoother).
- Skipping the resting time for steak.
Variations
- Chicken Queso Rice – Swap steak for grilled chicken.
- Shrimp Queso Rice – Sauté shrimp and toss in the queso.
- Spicy Queso – Add diced jalapeños or more cayenne.
- Vegetarian Bowl – Use black beans and grilled vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in skillet over medium heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring queso between heats.
Serving Ideas
- Serve with guacamole for freshness.
- Add tortilla chips for dipping.
- Pair with a simple side salad for balance.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked steak? Yes, just warm in a skillet before serving.
What’s the best rice? Jasmine or basmati for fluffy texture.
Can I prep ahead? Yes — store components separately and assemble when ready.
How do I make it spicier? Add jalapeños or extra cayenne to the queso.
Final Bite
This Steak Queso Rice bowl is the ultimate comfort meal — cheesy, hearty, and full of flavor. Whether you’re serving it for dinner tonight or packing it for lunch tomorrow, it’s guaranteed to satisfy.