If you’re craving something hearty, creamy, and bursting with flavor, the Steak & Queso Rice Recipe is an absolute winner. This dish brings together tender strips of perfectly cooked steak, fluffy rice simmered in savory beef broth, and a luscious blend of queso and sour cream to create a comfort food masterpiece. Not only is it full of bold tastes and textures, but it’s also surprisingly easy to whip up on any weeknight or when entertaining friends. Trust me, once you try this Steak & Queso Rice Recipe, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Steak & Queso Rice Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, from the juicy steak adding protein and richness to the queso blanco bringing that creamy, cheesy goodness that ties it all together.
- 1 lb steak (ribeye, sirloin, or flank): Choose your favorite cut thinly sliced for quick cooking and maximum tenderness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps to sear the steak and sauté the aromatics without overpowering the flavors.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Adds a mild sweetness and depth when cooked down.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a fragrant, savory base essential to the dish’s character.
- 1 cup rice (white or brown): The hearty staple, soaking up all the delicious flavors around it.
- 2 cups beef broth: Infuses the rice with rich, meaty flavor and moisture.
- 1 cup queso blanco or melted cheese of choice: The creamy element that makes this dish irresistibly cheesy and smooth.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds a tangy creaminess that balances the savory steak.
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional): Offers fresh, herbal brightness as a finishing touch.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Brings a warm, earthy flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Introduces a subtle kick and smokiness.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance and harmonize all the flavors.
How to Make Steak & Queso Rice Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Steak
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your thinly sliced steak and cook it for about 3 to 4 minutes until browned and perfectly cooked through. Then, set the steak aside while you work on building the flavors in the pan. This step locks in those rich, meaty juices that will make the entire dish shine.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Using the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and release their wonderful aroma. This sizzling combo is the flavor backbone of your Steak & Queso Rice Recipe, so don’t rush it!
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Add the rice to the skillet, stirring it with the onion and garlic mixture. Toast it gently for 1 to 2 minutes to bring out a subtle nuttiness in the rice that will deepen the overall flavor profile once cooked.
Step 4: Simmer the Rice
Pour in the beef broth along with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir, then cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let the rice simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until it is tender and has soaked up all those rich flavors. This slow cooking step melds each ingredient into a harmonious dish.
Step 5: Stir in Cheese and Sour Cream
Once the rice is tender, stir in the queso blanco or your preferred melted cheese along with the sour cream. Mix well to create that irresistibly creamy texture that gives this Steak & Queso Rice Recipe its signature indulgence.
Step 6: Combine Steak and Rice
Return the cooked steak to the skillet and stir together until everything is evenly heated through, about 2 to 3 minutes. This final melding step ensures every bite has the perfect balance of steak and cheesy rice goodness.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
For an optional but delightful finishing touch, sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top. Serve your Steak & Queso Rice Recipe hot and watch it disappear fast!
How to Serve Steak & Queso Rice Recipe
Garnishes
A handful of fresh chopped cilantro not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh herbal brightness that lifts the richness of the dish. You can also add a squeeze of lime or some sliced jalapeños if you want an extra zing or heat.
Side Dishes
This dish shines brightly on its own, but pairing it with simple sides can elevate your meal. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables provide a crisp contrast. For something heartier, warm tortillas or crispy chips make excellent companions for scooping up any leftover gooey queso rice.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress at your next get-together? Serve the Steak & Queso Rice Recipe stuffed into bell peppers for a colorful presentation or topped with avocado slices and a drizzle of hot sauce for a Tex-Mex twist. You can also turn it into loaded rice bowls layered with black beans, corn, and your favorite salsa.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Steak & Queso Rice Recipe to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining its creamy texture and delicious flavors.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this dish later, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool the rice completely before freezing to preserve the texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to bring back its creamy consistency. Stir occasionally to ensure everything heats evenly without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese besides queso blanco?
Absolutely! While queso blanco is classic, feel free to use a melty cheese like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar to give the dish a different but equally delicious twist.
What cuts of steak work best for this recipe?
Ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak are perfect for their flavor and tenderness. Just be sure to slice them thinly so they cook quickly and stay tender.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can! Substitute the steak with sautéed mushrooms or grilled veggies, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Keep the cheese and sour cream for that creamy texture.
Is it okay to use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice works well, but note it will require a longer cooking time and possibly more liquid. Adjust accordingly and keep the skillet covered while simmering.
How spicy is this Steak & Queso Rice Recipe?
The dish has mild warmth from the chili powder, but it’s not overly spicy. You can easily adjust the heat by adding more chili powder or serving with hot sauce on the side.
Final Thoughts
This Steak & Queso Rice Recipe brings together the best of savory steak, creamy queso, and fluffy rice in one delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s straightforward to make yet impressive in flavor, offering a perfect blend of comfort and excitement on your plate. Go ahead and give it a try—you might just find your new go-to recipe for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining!
Print
Steak & Queso Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southwestern American
Description
This Steak & Queso Rice recipe combines tender slices of seasoned steak with creamy queso blanco and perfectly cooked rice, creating a flavorful and comforting one-pan meal. The dish features a harmonious blend of cumin, chili powder, and garlic for a subtle southwestern flair, finished with a touch of sour cream and fresh cilantro for brightness.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 lb steak (ribeye, sirloin, or flank), thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup rice (white or brown)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup queso blanco or melted cheese of choice
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Cook Steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced steak and cook for 3–4 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside to retain its juices.
- Sauté Aromatics: Using the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Toast Rice: Add the rice to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir well to coat the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast, which enhances the nutty flavor.
- Simmer Rice: Pour in the beef broth along with cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything to combine. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let the rice simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and tender.
- Create Creamy Base: Once the rice is cooked, stir in the queso blanco (or your choice of melted cheese) and sour cream. Mix thoroughly to create a creamy, cheesy texture that binds the dish.
- Combine Steak and Heat Through: Return the cooked steak to the skillet and stir everything together. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on low heat to heat the steak through and blend the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve the steak and queso rice hot, perfect as a satisfying main dish.
Notes
- You can substitute the queso blanco with any melting cheese such as Monterey Jack or mild cheddar for a different flavor.
- Use brown rice instead of white rice for a nuttier taste and added fiber, adjusting cooking time as needed.
- For a spicier option, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños when sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Leftover steak can be replaced with cooked shredded chicken or beef for variation.
- Use fresh cilantro for garnishing to add a fresh herbal note that complements the rich flavors.
