Steak Queso Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together the best of everything—tender, well-seasoned steak strips, flavorful rice cooked in beef broth, and a rich, creamy queso sauce. The combination of textures from the tender steak, soft rice, and gooey cheese sauce creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for dinner or meal prep. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a delicious, cozy meal on a weeknight, this dish is packed with flavor and sure to satisfy!

Ingredients

For the Steak:

• 1 lb steak strips (sirloin, flank, or ribeye)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cumin

For the Flavorful Rice:

• 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Queso Sauce:

• 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
• ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)

Optional Toppings:

• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 jalapeño, sliced
• 1 tablespoon sour cream
• ½ cup diced tomatoes

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Steak:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the steak strips with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin.
3. Once the oil is hot, add the steak strips to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the steak is browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness.
4. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.

2. Prepare the Rice:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the beef broth to a boil.
2. Add the rice, butter, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir well, then cover and reduce the heat to low.
3. Let the rice simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Fluff with a fork to separate the grains.

3. Make the Queso Sauce:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream and cream cheese over medium heat. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and smooth.
2. Gradually add the shredded white cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
3. Add garlic powder and cayenne pepper (if using), then stir to combine. Remove from heat.

4. Assemble the Dish:

1. In a large serving dish or individual bowls, layer the cooked rice as the base.
2. Top the rice with the cooked steak strips, and drizzle generously with the creamy queso sauce.
3. Add optional toppings such as fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeño, sour cream, and diced tomatoes.

5. Serve:

Serve immediately and enjoy the perfect combination of savory steak, cheesy rice, and rich queso sauce!

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the steak with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
• Spicy Queso: For an extra spicy kick, add diced jalapeños directly into the queso sauce or mix in hot sauce.
• Rice Alternatives: You can use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.
• Cheese Variations: Try using different cheese combinations such as pepper jack for an extra spicy flavor or sharp cheddar for more tanginess.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat. If needed, add a splash of milk or beef broth to restore the creamy texture of the queso sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of steak?

Yes, you can use any cut of steak that’s good for quick cooking, such as flank steak, ribeye, or sirloin. Just be sure to slice it thinly for maximum tenderness.

Can I make the rice in advance?

Yes, you can cook the rice ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

How do I make this recipe spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the queso sauce or top the dish with sliced jalapeños, hot sauce, or even diced spicy peppers.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the queso?

Yes, you can experiment with different cheese combinations. Pepper jack, gouda, or even a mix of cheddar and cream cheese will work great!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure the beef broth you use is gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the rice, steak, and queso sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, just reheat and assemble the bowls.

Can I use store-bought queso sauce?

Yes, you can use store-bought queso sauce if you’re short on time, but homemade queso sauce adds a richer, creamier flavor to the dish.

Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, you can substitute jasmine or basmati rice with other types of rice, such as brown rice or wild rice. Adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts accordingly.

Can I freeze this recipe?

It’s best to freeze the components separately. You can freeze the steak and rice for up to 2 months. The queso sauce may separate after freezing, so it’s best to make it fresh.

How can I make this recipe more filling?

For a more filling meal, serve the dish with a side of sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, or corn.

Conclusion

Steak Queso Rice is a rich, indulgent, and perfectly balanced dish that brings together the flavors of tender steak, creamy cheese, and seasoned rice. It’s ideal for those who love comfort food with a twist and is perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion. With plenty of options for customization, this meal is sure to satisfy every craving. Whether you’re a fan of cheesy dishes or crave a hearty steak dinner, this recipe is a must-try!

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