Steak Queso Rice Recipe

Description of this Recipe

This Steak Queso Rice recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender, seasoned steak with perfectly cooked rice, all smothered in a creamy, cheesy queso sauce. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, offering a satisfying and comforting meal that the whole family will love. The balance of textures and flavors, from the seared steak to the fluffy rice and rich queso, makes every bite a delight.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

You’ll absolutely adore this Steak Queso Rice recipe for several reasons:

Ease of Preparation: This recipe is incredibly straightforward, using simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and delicious meal.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimize cleanup with this one-pan recipe! Everything comes together in a single skillet, making it a convenient option for both cooking and washing up.
Customizable: The recipe is highly adaptable. You can adjust the spice level, swap out the type of cheese, or add extra veggies to suit your preferences.
Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of tender steak, fluffy rice, and creamy queso sauce creates a rich and satisfying dish that’s packed with flavor.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is a guaranteed hit with family and friends. It’s perfect for casual gatherings or potlucks, offering a comforting and crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients:

✅ 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye, sliced into bite-sized pieces)
✅ 1 cup uncooked white rice
✅ 2 cups beef broth
✅ 1 tbsp olive oil
✅ ½ tsp salt
✅ ½ tsp black pepper
✅ ½ tsp garlic powder
✅ ½ tsp onion powder
✅ ½ tsp smoked paprika

For the Queso Sauce:

✅ 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
✅ ½ cup heavy cream
✅ ½ cup milk
✅ ¼ tsp chili powder
✅ ¼ tsp cumin
✅ ¼ tsp salt

Optional Garnishes:

✅ Chopped cilantro
✅ Sliced jalapeños
✅ Diced tomatoes
✅ Sour cream

Preparation:

Step 1: Cook the Steak

Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the steak to get a good sear.
Add the sliced steak and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. The seasoning blend adds a depth of flavor that complements the beef.
Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C).
Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside. This prevents the steak from overcooking while you prepare the rice.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

In the same skillet, add uncooked rice and stir for 1 minute to toast it slightly. Toasting the rice enhances its nutty flavor and helps prevent it from becoming mushy.
Pour in the beef broth, stir, and bring to a boil. The beef broth infuses the rice with a rich, savory flavor that complements the steak.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid during simmering to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Make the Queso Sauce

In a small saucepan, heat milk and heavy cream over low heat. Using low heat prevents the dairy from scorching and ensures a smooth sauce.
Slowly add the shredded cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted. Add the cheese gradually to ensure it melts evenly and creates a smooth, creamy texture.
Add chili powder, cumin, and salt, mixing well. These spices add warmth and depth to the queso sauce, enhancing its overall flavor.
Keep warm over low heat until ready to serve. This prevents the sauce from thickening or cooling down before you’re ready to combine it with the steak and rice.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

Once the rice is cooked, return the steak to the skillet. This allows the steak to warm up slightly and absorb some of the rice flavors.
Pour the queso sauce over the rice and steak, stirring gently to combine. Be careful not to over-stir, as this can make the rice mushy.
Garnish with cilantro, jalapeños, or diced tomatoes if desired. Garnishes add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Serve immediately and enjoy! This dish is best served hot to ensure the queso sauce is creamy and the steak is tender.

COOKING Rating:

5/5 Stars – This recipe is a winner! It’s easy to make, customizable, and incredibly flavorful.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve as a main course for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Pair with a side of black beans, corn, or a fresh salad for a complete dinner.
Offer tortilla chips for dipping into the queso sauce.
Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
Accompany with a refreshing margarita or iced tea.

Tips:

Choose the Right Steak: Sirloin or ribeye are excellent choices for this recipe due to their tenderness and flavor. However, you can also use flank steak or skirt steak for a more budget-friendly option.
Don’t Overcook the Steak: Ensure the steak is cooked to your preferred doneness. Overcooked steak will be tough and less enjoyable.
Toast the Rice: Toasting the rice before adding the beef broth enhances its flavor and helps prevent it from becoming mushy.
Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese, resulting in a creamier queso sauce.
Adjust the Spice Level: Customize the spice level to your liking by adding more or less chili powder and jalapeños.
Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the steak with black beans or tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Add Veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers, onions, or corn for added nutrients and flavor.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cook Time:

25 minutes

Total Time:

40 minutes

Nutritional Information:

(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Calories:

Approximately 650 calories per serving

Protein:

Approximately 40g per serving

Sodium:

Approximately 800mg per serving

Conclusion

This Steak Queso Rice recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its easy preparation, customizable ingredients, and satisfying taste, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this recipe delivers on all fronts. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and comforting meal that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying!

Questions and Answers About This Recipe

Q1: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

A: Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time. Brown rice typically takes about 45-50 minutes to cook. Make sure to adjust the amount of beef broth accordingly, using about 2.5 cups for 1 cup of brown rice. Also, keep in mind that brown rice has a nuttier flavor and a chewier texture compared to white rice.

Q2: What kind of cheese is best for the queso sauce?

A: Cheddar cheese or a Mexican blend are both excellent choices for the queso sauce. Cheddar provides a classic, sharp flavor, while a Mexican blend offers a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack, cheddar, and sometimes pepper jack, which adds a bit of spice. For a smoother melt, use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded.

Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the steak and rice ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the steak and rice in a skillet, then add the freshly made queso sauce. It’s best to make the queso sauce just before serving to ensure it’s creamy and smooth.

Q4: How can I make this recipe spicier?

A: To add more heat to this recipe, you can include diced jalapeños when sautéing the steak, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the queso sauce, or use pepper jack cheese in the queso. You can also garnish with sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when serving.

Q5: Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

A: Yes, there are several ways to make this recipe healthier. You can use lean steak, such as sirloin, and trim any excess fat. Substitute brown rice for white rice to increase fiber intake. Use low-fat milk and a smaller amount of cheese in the queso sauce. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or corn to boost the nutritional content. You could also use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream as a topping for a lower-fat alternative.