Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood by the stove, the enticing aroma of sizzling steak filled my kitchen, transporting me to a bustling taco stand in the heart of Mexico. This Ultimate Steak Queso Rice Bowl marries tender steak strips with perfectly seasoned jasmine rice, all enveloped in creamy queso that’s sure to make your taste buds dance. A true quick comfort food, this dish is ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. Plus, the customizable nature of this recipe means you can easily swap in chicken, shrimp, or even hearty black beans for a vegetarian twist! Are you ready to create a bowl that’s not only delicious but also tailored just for you? Why is this Steak Queso Rice Bowl a must-try? Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you’re craving something comforting yet hassle-free! Unforgettable Flavor: The rich combination of steak and creamy queso envelops jasmine rice, creating an explosion of taste that rivals your favorite Mexican takeaway! Totally Customizable: Whether you’re a meat-lover or vegetarian, you can easily switch up the proteins or add colorful veggies to suit your palate, just like in our Mediterranean Steak Bowl. Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Serve it at your next gathering and watch everyone come back for seconds. The flavors are sure to impress! Meal Prep Friendly: Cook extra portions of rice and queso, and store them for quick reheat meals during the week, making life just a little easier. Enjoy this delectable dish any night of the week and take your taste buds on a flavorful journey! Steak Queso Rice Bowl Ingredients For the Steak • Steak Strips – Main protein providing robust flavor and texture; substitute with chicken or shrimp for variety. • Olive Oil – For cooking steak, enriching the flavor; can be exchanged with vegetable oil if needed. • Salt – Enhances the overall taste of steak and rice; feel free to adjust based on dietary needs. • Black Pepper – Adds a mild kick; white pepper can be used for a different flavor profile. • Garlic Powder – Perfect seasoning for steak and queso sauce; fresh garlic provides even more depth if preferred. • Paprika – Introduces smokiness and vibrant color; smoked paprika could intensify the flavor. • Cumin – Delivers warm, earthy notes; you can omit it if you don’t have it on hand. For the Rice • Jasmine Rice – This variety is perfect for getting that soft, fluffy texture; Basmati or other long-grain rice also works! • Beef Broth – Cooking medium for rice that enhances flavor; replace with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. • Butter – Adds richness to the rice; omit for a lighter meal if desired. For the Queso Sauce • Cheddar Cheese – A crucial cheese for the creamy queso; feel free to swap with Monterey Jack for a creamier texture. • Monterey Jack Cheese – Provides smoothness; any melty cheese can be substituted according to your preference. • Heavy Cream – Creates that deliciously rich queso sauce; half-and-half offers a lighter alternative. • Cream Cheese – Ensures a silky texture in the sauce; you can leave it out for a lighter option. • Cayenne Pepper – An optional ingredient for a spicy kick; adjust to suit your own heat level. Fresh Garnishes • Fresh Cilantro – Chopped adds freshness; parsley can be used if preferred. • Jalapeño – Sliced for an extra layer of flavor and heat; optional based on your taste. • Sour Cream – A tangy topping; also an optional ingredient if you’re avoiding dairy. • Diced Tomatoes – Adds freshness and a touch of acidity for garnish; canned tomatoes can be used if fresh are unavailable. Delight in creating this Steak Queso Rice Bowl that delivers comfort and warmth with every bite! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ultimate Steak Queso Rice Bowl Step 1: Cook the Rice In a medium saucepan, combine beef broth, butter, salt, garlic powder, and paprika. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, watching for bubbling. Once boiling, stir in the jasmine rice, cover tightly, and reduce the heat to low. Allow the rice to simmer for 15-18 minutes, until all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff it gently with a fork, creating a light and airy texture for your Ultimate Steak Queso Rice Bowl. Step 2: Prepare the Steak While the rice is cooking, season your steak strips with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the seasoned steak strips and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they achieve a nice brown crust and your desired level of doneness. Allow them to rest for 5 minutes, ensuring juiciness for your rice bowl. Step 3: Make the Queso Sauce In a small saucepan, gently heat heavy cream over low heat, stirring constantly to avoid scorching. As it warms, add cream cheese and stir until melted and fully combined. Gradually mix in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, watching for a smooth and creamy consistency. Sprinkle in garlic powder and cayenne pepper if you’d like added heat. This velvety queso will be the star of your Ultimate Steak Queso Rice Bowl! Step 4: Assemble the Bowls Once your rice, steak, and queso sauce are ready, it’s time to build your bowls! Divide the fluffy jasmine rice into serving bowls, creating a generous base. Top each bowl with the perfectly cooked steak strips, ensuring every bite is loaded with flavor. Drizzle that luscious queso sauce over the steak and rice, bringing all these delicious components together. Step 5: Add Fresh Garnishes To elevate your Ultimate Steak Queso Rice Bowl, add vibrant garnishes that brighten the dish. Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top, followed by diced tomatoes and sliced jalapeños for a pop of color and flavor. If desired, add a dollop of sour cream for creaminess. These thoughtful touches will enhance the overall experience and make every bite even more delightful! Steak Queso Rice Bowl Variations Feel free to put your own spin on this delicious Steak Queso Rice Bowl, embracing flavors that tempt your taste buds! Protein Swaps: Use chicken or shrimp for a lighter meal that’s equally satisfying. Simply switch out the steak with your protein of choice, allowing you to explore delightful flavors across the board. Vegetarian Option: Substitute steak with black beans and sautéed bell peppers for a hearty vegan adaptation. This variation offers a wholesome texture and a burst of color, while still giving you that comforting feel of a warm bowl. Cheese Variations: Experiment with cheese types, like pepper jack for spice or gouda for smokiness. Mixing cheeses can elevate your queso sauce, adding playful layers that make each bite an adventure. Grain Choices: Swap jasmine rice for quinoa or brown rice for added nutrition. A hearty base like quinoa opens up a world of nutty flavors and textures, aligning well with this dish’s theme. Herb Infusion: Use fresh herbs like chives or cilantro for enhanced flavor. Fresh herbs brighten the presentation and infuse the dish with a delightful fragrance, making each bowl even more inviting. Tangy Twist: Add a splash of lime juice to the queso for brightness. This zesty addition brightens the creamy sauce, perfect for those who love a little zing! Dairy-Free Version: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for richness without dairy. This substitution not only makes the dish accessible for dairy-free diets but also adds a subtle sweetness to the sauce. Spice It Up: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery kick! Personalizing the heat level can completely transform the experience – just remember to balance the heat with the creaminess of the queso. Ready for more delicious pairing ideas? Try this with our zesty Garlic Butter Steak Bites or even a side of our vibrant Fried Rice Colorful for an extra pop of flavor! What to Serve with Ultimate Steak Queso Rice Bowl Elevate your dining experience with these delectable side dishes that perfectly accompany your savory bowl of comfort. Crispy Tortilla Chips: These crunchy delights offer a satisfying contrast to the creamy queso, making them perfect for dipping or snacking alongside your meal. Fresh Guacamole: The smooth, rich avocado adds a burst of freshness, balancing the richness of the queso sauce—it’s a heavenly combination! Zesty Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime over the bowl brightens all the flavors and adds a tangy kick that truly invigorates your palate. Mixed Green Salad: Light and refreshing, a simple salad with vinaigrette can cut through the meaty richness, enhancing your dining experience with vibrant textures. Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro offer a zesty accompaniment that complements the queso bowl—add extra spice for a kick! Corn on the Cob: Grilled or roasted, the sweet corn provides a cheerful crunch that pairs beautifully with the savory steak and creamy sauce. Chili Lime Roasted Potatoes: These flavorful bites combination of crispy, spicy, and zesty flavors makes a delightful alternative to traditional sides, bringing warmth to your meal! Cold Beer or Margarita: A chilled beverage complements the dish, providing a refreshing contrast to the warm, comforting bowl while enhancing the Mexican experience. How to Store and Freeze Steak Queso Rice Bowl Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat rice and steak separately, adding a splash of beef broth to the rice for moisture. Freezer: You can freeze components separately for up to 3 months. Wrap rice and steak tightly in plastic wrap or freezer bags, and store the queso in a suitable container. Reheating: To reheat, warm the rice and steak in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little broth for moisture. Gently heat the queso in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth. Make-Ahead: Prep rice and queso ahead of time and store in the fridge for easy assembly. This makes enjoying your Steak Queso Rice Bowl even quicker during busy weeks! Make Ahead Options These Ultimate Steak Queso Rice Bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can cook the jasmine rice and queso sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain the quality, let the rice cool completely before refrigerating to prevent clumping. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat the rice with a splash of beef broth for moisture, and warm the queso gently over low heat while stirring. Prepare the steak on the day of serving for the best texture, and you’ll have a comforting meal that’s just as delicious but requires minimal effort! Expert Tips for Steak Queso Rice Bowl • Quality Cuts: Choose high-quality steak cuts like ribeye or flank for optimal flavor and tenderness that brings your Steak Queso Rice Bowl to life. • Rest the Steak: Always let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and succulent. • Cheesy Perfection: For a smooth queso, heat gently while stirring continuously to prevent clumps. Avoid high heat as it can cause the cheese to separate. • Fluffy Rice: Fluff the rice immediately after cooking to prevent it from becoming sticky. This keeps the texture light and perfect for your bowl. • Avoid Overcooking: Be careful not to overcook your steak; it should be perfectly cooked for maximum tenderness and flavor in your rice bowl. Ultimate Steak Queso Rice Bowl Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right steak for the Steak Queso Rice Bowl? Absolutely! For the best flavor and tenderness, I recommend leaning towards high-quality cuts like ribeye or flank steak. These cuts provide that juicy, rich experience we all crave. Look for steak with some marbling, as this will enhance the meat’s flavor during cooking. What should I do with leftovers from my Steak Queso Rice Bowl? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, I suggest reheating the rice and steak separately so everything stays nice and warm. Just add a splash of beef broth to the rice to keep it moist and fluffy! Can I freeze the components of the Steak Queso Rice Bowl? Yes! You can freeze the rice, steak, and queso separately for up to 3 months. Just wrap the rice and steak tightly in plastic wrap or freezer bags, and store the queso in a suitable container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat everything gently to avoid losing texture. What if I want to make a vegetarian version of the Steak Queso Rice Bowl? Very easily! If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the steak with black beans and sautéed bell peppers. This adds heartiness and a delicious flavor, while still providing a satisfying bowl. Additionally, ensure you use vegetable broth instead of beef broth in the rice for a complete vegetarian experience. How can I prevent my queso sauce from becoming lumpy? To achieve creamy perfection, make sure to heat your heavy cream gently and stir constantly as you add your cheeses. Avoid high heat, as it can cause the cheese to separate and become clumpy. If you do encounter lumps, you can use an immersion blender to smooth it out or strain it for a silky texture. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind while making this recipe? Definitely! If you’re concerned about dairy, you can replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a rich yet dairy-free option. If allergies are a consideration, be mindful of the cheeses and opt for a brand free of allergens. As always, it’s a good idea to check all ingredient labels if you have specific dietary restrictions. These FAQs should help you whip up a delightful Ultimate Steak Queso Rice Bowl with ease and ensure every bite is a comfort-filled journey! Ultimate Steak Queso Rice Bowl: Comfort Food Bliss Await! This Ultimate Steak Queso Rice Bowl is a quick and customizable comfort food that blends steak, seasoned rice, and creamy queso for a delightful meal. 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: MexicanCalories: 620 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Steak1 pound Steak Strips Substitute with chicken or shrimp if desired.2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can be exchanged with vegetable oil.1 teaspoon Salt Adjust based on dietary needs.1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper White pepper can be used for variation.1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used for more flavor.1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika can be used for a richer flavor.1 teaspoon Cumin Optional ingredient.For the Rice1 cup Jasmine Rice Basmati or other long-grain rice can be used.2 cups Beef Broth Vegetable broth can be used for vegetarian option.1 tablespoon Butter Can be omitted for lighter meal.For the Queso Sauce1 cup Cheddar Cheese Can swap with Monterey Jack for creaminess.1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese Any melty cheese can be substituted.1 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half can be a lighter option.4 ounces Cream Cheese Can be omitted for lighter queso.1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Adjust according to heat preference.Fresh Garnishes1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Chopped.1 medium Jalapeño Sliced, optional.1/2 cup Sour Cream Optional for avoiding dairy.1 cup Diced Tomatoes Canned can be used if fresh are unavailable. Equipment Medium SaucepanLarge SkilletSmall saucepan Method Cooking StepsIn a medium saucepan, combine beef broth, butter, salt, garlic powder, and paprika. Bring to a boil, stir in jasmine rice, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15-18 minutes.Season steak strips with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat, add steak strips and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until desired doneness. Let rest for 5 minutes.In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream over low heat, stirring constantly. Add cream cheese, then cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, and mix until smooth. Add garlic powder and cayenne pepper for heat as desired.Divide jasmine rice into serving bowls. Top with steak strips and drizzle with queso sauce.Garnish with cilantro, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and sour cream as desired. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 620kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 36gFat: 34gSaturated Fat: 18gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 3mg NotesQuality cuts of steak are recommended for optimal flavor. Allow steak to rest after cooking for juiciness. Fluff rice after cooking to avoid stickiness manually. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!