If you’re craving a hearty, indulgent rice bowl, this Steak Queso Rice is your new go-to. Tender strips of steak, creamy queso sauce, and perfectly seasoned rice come together to create a meal that’s both comforting and packed with bold flavors.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend indulgences, or whenever you’re craving a restaurant-quality steak rice bowl at home, this dish brings together cheesy, savory, and satisfying goodness in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Steak Queso Rice
- Loaded with Flavor: Juicy steak, cheesy queso, and savory rice in every bite.
- Easy to Make: Minimal prep and simple ingredients.
- One-Pan Option: Less cleanup, more deliciousness.
- Customizable: Swap the protein, change the cheese, or add veggies.
- Family-Friendly: Perfect for dinner, meal prep, or entertaining.
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 Flavorful 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 Monterey Jack cheese
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp cream cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
Optional Toppings:
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, sliced
- 1 tbsp sour cream
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 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
Step 1: Cook the Rice
In a medium saucepan, bring beef broth, butter, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to a boil. Add rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Steak
In a bowl, season steak strips with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook steak 3–4 minutes per side, until browned and cooked to your liking. Let rest 5 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Queso Sauce
In a small saucepan over low heat, warm heavy cream. Add cream cheese and stir until melted. Gradually add cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring constantly until smooth. Mix in garlic powder and cayenne if desired. Keep warm on low heat.
Step 4: Assemble the Steak Queso Rice Bowl
Divide rice among bowls. Top with steak strips and drizzle generously with queso sauce.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Add optional toppings: cilantro, diced tomatoes, jalapeño slices, or sour cream. Serve immediately.
Expert Tips for a Flavorful Bowl
- Choose high-quality steak – ribeye, sirloin, or flank work best.
- Let the steak rest – this keeps it juicy.
- Warm queso on low heat – prevents clumping or graininess.
- Fluff rice – keeps it light and separate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking steak – aim for medium-rare to medium.
- Using pre-shredded cheese – fresh shredding gives smoother queso.
- Skipping the steak resting step – juices will run out and steak will be dry.
Variations and Substitutions
- Swap steak for chicken, shrimp, or black beans for a vegetarian version.
- Make it spicy – add jalapeños or extra cayenne.
- Use different cheeses – pepper jack, Colby, or a Mexican cheese blend.
How to Store and Reheat
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes or microwave 1–2 minutes, stirring queso midway.
Serving Ideas
- With guacamole for creamy contrast.
- As a dip with tortilla chips.
- Alongside a fresh green salad to balance richness.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked steak? Yes, warm in a skillet before serving.
What’s the best rice for this dish? Jasmine or basmati for fluffy texture.
Can I make it ahead? Yes, store components separately and assemble later.
Can I make it spicier? Yes, add jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
Final Thoughts
This Steak Queso Rice is the ultimate indulgent rice bowl—juicy beef, creamy cheese, and perfectly seasoned rice all in one. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a meal-prep favorite, it’s guaranteed to satisfy.
Try it today and share your creations—your friends will thank you!