Jump to Recipe Print RecipeI once found myself staring at a fridge full of ingredients, but nothing seemed to excite me. That’s when I decided to embrace the magic of a Steak Queso Rice bowl. This delightful creation brings together tender steak strips, creamy queso, and fluffy rice into a quick dinner recipe that’s sure to satisfy any comfort food craving. Not only does this dish come together in a flash, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser for those busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Imagine the laughter around the table as everyone digs into this hearty meal—an easy way to turn an ordinary evening into something extraordinary! Curious about how to whip up this flavorful bowl that rivals any restaurant dish? Let’s dive in! Why is Steak Queso Rice So Irresistible? Comforting and satisfying, this Steak Queso Rice Bowl combines rich flavors into one delicious meal the whole family will love. Quick to prepare, you can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Versatile and easy to customize, feel free to swap in grilled chicken or even a vegetarian option with black beans. Flavor-packed, the creamy queso drizzled over tender steak and fluffy rice creates a culinary experience worth savoring. If you’re in the mood for more delectable bites, check out my Garlic Butter Steak Bites or a savory Mediterranean Steak Bowl! Steak Queso Rice Ingredients • Dive into the simplicity of this scrumptious Steak Queso Rice dish with this helpful list! For the Steak Steak Strips – Use sirloin, flank, or ribeye for a tender bite packed with flavor. Olive Oil – Essential for browning the steak; any cooking oil works as a substitute. Salt & Black Pepper – Elevate flavors; opting for Kosher or sea salt enhances the taste. Garlic Powder – Imparts a savory aroma; fresh garlic can be a great alternative. Paprika & Cumin – Provides depth and warmth; feel free to adjust according to spice preference. For the Rice Rice (Jasmine or Basmati) – The fluffy base for this dish; both options offer great texture. Beef Broth – Adds flavor to the rice; vegetable broth can lighten it up if needed. Butter – Brings richness to the rice; easily omitted for a dairy-free choice. For the Queso Sauce Heavy Cream & Cream Cheese – Blend perfectly for a creamy sauce; use low-fat for a lighter option. White Cheddar & Monterey Jack Cheese – The key to that irresistible cheesy flavor; swap with any melting cheese. Cayenne Pepper (optional) – A pinch adds a kick; adjust to suit your desired spice level. For Garnishing Fresh Cilantro – Introduces a burst of freshness; feel free to add more if you love it! Jalapeño – Great for an extra spicy crunch; slice to your spice tolerance. Sour Cream – Offers a cooling balance to the dish. Diced Tomatoes – Adds color and freshness, making the dish even more appealing. With this easy-to-follow list of ingredients, you’ll be ready to create a delightful Steak Queso Rice bowl that’s brimming with flavor and comfort! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Steak Queso Rice Step 1: Cook the Rice In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of beef broth, 1 tablespoon of butter, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika to a vigorous boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add 1 cup of rinsed jasmine or basmati rice. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside. Step 2: Season & Cook the Steak Season 1 pound of steak strips with salt, black pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1 teaspoon of cumin, ensuring even coverage. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned steak and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing. Step 3: Prepare the Queso Sauce In a saucepan over low heat, combine 1 cup of heavy cream and 4 ounces of cream cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Gradually add 1 cup of shredded white cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, continuing to stir until fully incorporated and creamy. If desired, add in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra warmth, keeping the sauce warm until ready to serve. Step 4: Assemble the Dish To build your delicious Steak Queso Rice bowls, start by dividing the fluffy rice among serving bowls. Generously top each portion of rice with the sliced, cooked steak, ensuring each bite is loaded with flavor. Drizzle the creamy queso sauce over the steak, allowing it to cascade beautifully over the rice and meat for that comforting effect. Step 5: Garnish & Serve Elevate your Steak Queso Rice bowls by adding optional toppings such as fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream. These garnishes not only enhance the visual appeal but also add refreshing flavors to the dish. Serve immediately while warm, inviting your loved ones to enjoy this satisfying and hearty meal together. Variations & Substitutions for Steak Queso Rice Feel free to explore these delicious ideas to make your Steak Queso Rice even more delightful and tailored to your taste! Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives to create a luscious queso without the dairy. Spicy Kick: Add chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the queso for a smoky heat that will tantalize your taste buds. Grain Swap: For a healthier twist, try using quinoa or cauliflower rice as a base instead of traditional rice for a delicious low-carb option. Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or green onions over the top for an herbaceous burst of flavor that enhances the dish’s freshness. Jarred Salsa: Mix in some store-bought salsa into the queso sauce for added flavor—it’s an effortless shortcut that will surprise you! Flavor Boost: Enhance the rice by cooking it in chicken stock instead of water or beef broth to kick up the flavor even more. Add Some Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers and onions when cooking the steak for a colorful and nutritious upgrade that adds both texture and taste. Taco-style: Transform this recipe into taco bowls by serving with tortilla chips on the side and offering a selection of toppings like guacamole or pico de gallo. Looking for more comforting dishes? Don’t miss my recipe for Fried Rice Colorful or indulge in a flavorful Honey BBQ Chicken Rice. Enjoy customizing your creation! Expert Tips for Steak Queso Rice Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality steak for the best flavor and tenderness in your Steak Queso Rice. Cheaper cuts can result in a chewier texture. Rest the Steak: Allow the steak to rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This step helps retain juices, ensuring each bite is flavorful and tender. Creamy Queso Sauce: Keep the queso sauce over low heat until ready to serve. This prevents it from thickening and maintains that desired creamy consistency. Avoid Overcooking: Be cautious not to overcook the steak; it should be browned on the outside but still juicy inside. Aim for medium for optimal results. Customize with Toppings: Feel free to personalize your dish with garnishes like cilantro, jalapeños, and tomatoes, enhancing both flavor and presentation. What to Serve with Delicious Steak Queso Rice Bowl Looking to create the perfect meal experience to accompany your hearty dish? Crispy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping up queso, they add a delightful crunch that complements the creamy textures of your bowl. Spicy Black Beans: Their rich flavor and protein enhance your meal, while a hint of spice balances the creamy queso nicely. Fresh Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado brings a refreshing touch that cuts through the richness, lightening the meal beautifully. Corn Salsa: Bursting with sweet corn and zesty lime, this bright garnish adds color and a refreshing flavor contrast to the savory dish. Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw contrasts well with the warmth of the quesadilla and enhances the overall texture of your meal. Margaritas or Iced Tea: A citrusy margarita can elevate the experience even further, while iced tea keeps it fresh and bright. These options will help you build a fulfilling and delicious meal that everyone will enjoy, turning a simple dinner into a cherished family gathering. How to Store and Freeze Steak Queso Rice Fridge: Store any leftover Steak Queso Rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the queso sauce and steak separate from the rice to maintain texture and flavor. Freezer: You can freeze the components separately. Place the cooked rice in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Queso sauce and steak can also be frozen, but be mindful that the cheese may change texture. Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Warm steak and sauce in a pan on low heat, stirring gently. Reheat rice in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Enjoy Later: This makes for a quick meal time option—just assemble and enjoy your hearty Steak Queso Rice bowl whenever you crave a burst of comforting flavor! Make Ahead Options These Steak Queso Rice bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can cook the rice and prepare the queso sauce up to 3 days in advance; just store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge to maintain their freshness. The seasoned steak strips can be cooked and refrigerated up to 24 hours before serving; remember to let them cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup. When you’re ready to enjoy this hearty dish, simply reheat the components; warm the rice in the microwave or on the stovetop, sauté the steak briefly to restore tenderness, and gently heat the queso sauce until smooth. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a cozy meal ready with minimal effort! Steak Queso Rice Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best steak for my Steak Queso Rice? Absolutely! For the best flavor and tenderness, opt for cuts like sirloin, flank, or ribeye. Each provides a rich, deeper flavor that complements the creamy queso beautifully. Look for cuts that are well-marbled, as the fat adds to the juiciness. If you’re unsure, check the butcher department for recommendations tailored to your palate! How should I store leftover Steak Queso Rice? Very simple! Store any leftover Steak Queso Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best quality, keep the queso sauce and steak separate from the rice to maintain texture and avoid sogginess. Make sure to let the dish cool down before sealing it up to avoid condensation. Can I freeze Steak Queso Rice? Absolutely! You can freeze each component separately. Place the cooked rice in freezer-safe bags or containers, which can last for up to 2 months. The queso sauce and steak can also be frozen; however, be aware that the texture of the cheese may change slightly upon thawing. If you anticipate using them later, freeze them in smaller portions for quick meals. What if my queso sauce thickens too much after cooking? Not to worry! If your queso sauce thickens significantly, simply add a splash of milk or beef broth over low heat and stir gently until you reach your desired creaminess. Be careful not to overheat it, as that can cause the sauce to break, but a little added liquid works wonders for maintaining that velvety texture. Can I adapt this recipe for dietary restrictions? Certainly! To make the Steak Queso Rice more inclusive, you can substitute the steak with grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp. For a vegetarian option, consider using black beans and assorted grilled vegetables instead. If dairy is an issue, you can create a vegan queso using cashews or nutritional yeast to maintain that delightful cheesy essence. The more the merrier with options! What is the best way to reheat leftover Steak Queso Rice? To enjoy your leftover Steak Queso Rice, it’s best to reheat in a couple of steps. Thaw any frozen components overnight in the fridge. Then, warm the steak and queso sauce in a pan over low heat, stirring gently to avoid clumping. For the rice, microwave it with a splash of water or broth to ensure it stays moist and fluffy. Dig in and enjoy your comforting meal again! Savor This Creamy Steak Queso Rice for Ultimate Comfort This delicious Steak Queso Rice combines tender steak, creamy queso, and fluffy rice into the ultimate comfort food. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 750 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Steak1 pound Steak Strips Sirloin, flank, or ribeye2 tablespoons Olive Oil Any cooking oil works as a substitute1 teaspoon Salt Kosher or sea salt enhances the taste1 teaspoon Black Pepper1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be a great alternative1 teaspoon Paprika Adjust according to spice preference1 teaspoon Cumin Adjust according to spice preferenceFor the Rice1 cup Rice Jasmine or Basmati2 cups Beef Broth Vegetable broth can be used1 tablespoon Butter Easily omitted for a dairy-free choiceFor the Queso Sauce1 cup Heavy Cream Use low-fat for a lighter option4 ounces Cream Cheese1 cup White Cheddar Cheese Swap with any melting cheese1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese Swap with any melting cheese1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Optional for more flavor1 pinch Cayenne Pepper Optional, adjust to tasteFor Garnishing1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Add more if you love it!1/2 cup Sour Cream1 cup Diced Tomatoes Equipment Medium SaucepanLarge SkilletSaucepan Method Cook RiceIn a medium saucepan, bring beef broth, butter, salt, garlic powder, and paprika to a vigorous boil. Add rice, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes.Cook SteakSeason steak strips with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the steak for 3-4 minutes on each side.Prepare Queso SauceIn a saucepan over low heat, combine heavy cream and cream cheese until melted. Gradually add the cheeses and stir until creamy.Assemble DishDivide rice among bowls, top with sliced steak, and drizzle with queso sauce.Garnish & ServeAdd optional garnishes like cilantro, jalapeños, tomatoes, and sour cream before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 750kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 40gFat: 45gSaturated Fat: 25gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 20gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 3mg NotesAllow the steak to rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain juices. Customize toppings to your preference. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!