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Steak Queso Rice Recipe

A rich and satisfying Steak Queso Rice Recipe made with juicy seared steak, fluffy seasoned rice, and creamy, cheesy queso sauce—perfect for an easy, flavour-packed dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4
Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Steak

  • 1 lb 450g flank, sirloin, or ribeye steak
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Rice

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth or water
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ small onion finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp butter or oil
  • Salt to taste

For the Queso Sauce

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1½ cups milk or cream for richer taste
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings

  • Chopped cilantro
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Jalapenos
  • Avocado slices
  • Lime wedges

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook the Rice

  • Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch.
  • In a pot, heat butter or oil and saute onion and garlic until fragrant.
  • Add rice and stir briefly to toast.
  • Pour in chicken broth, add salt, and bring to a boil.
  • Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until tender.
  • Fluff and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Steak

  • Pat steak dry and season with garlic powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  • Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Sear steak for 3–5 minutes per side depending on thickness.
  • Remove from heat and let it rest for 5–10 minutes.
  • Slice thinly against the grain for tenderness.

Step 3: Make the Queso Sauce

  • Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  • Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
  • Pour in milk and gently heat (do not boil).
  • Gradually add shredded cheeses while stirring continuously.
  • Mix in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  • Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

  • Spoon warm rice into serving bowls.
  • Top with sliced steak.
  • Drizzle generously with queso sauce.
  • Add optional toppings like cilantro, tomatoes, or lime.

Step 5: Serve

  • Serve immediately while warm for the best creamy texture and flavour.

Notes

  • Steak Tip: Always rest the steak before slicing to keep it juicy.
  • Rice Upgrade: Use broth instead of water for deeper flavour.
  • Queso Tip: Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting.
  • Spicy Variation: Add jalapenos or cayenne pepper to the queso.
  • Meal Prep: Store rice, steak, and queso separately for best texture when reheating.
  • Shortcut Option: Use store-bought queso for quicker preparation.