Steak & Queso Rice is the ultimate comfort food that combines savory steak, creamy queso, and fluffy rice. Picture this: a plate brimming with vibrant colors, cheesy goodness, and mouthwatering aromas that invite you to take a bite. Each spoonful promises a delightful explosion of flavors that dance on your taste buds.

Every time I make Steak & Queso Rice, it transports me back to family gatherings where laughter fills the air, and everyone fights for the last bite. It’s perfect for casual dinners or festive celebrations, ensuring every occasion becomes memorable with its irresistible charm. You’ll be counting down the days until you can whip up this dish again!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Steak & Queso Rice recipe offers an effortless way to enjoy hearty flavors at home
- The creamy queso complements the tender steak perfectly, creating an unforgettable experience
- With its vibrant presentation and enticing aroma, it’s sure to impress your guests
- Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can switch up ingredients based on what you have on hand!
Sharing this dish with friends made them go wild over its deliciousness!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Steak: Choose ribeye or sirloin for their rich flavor; cut into bite-sized pieces for easy cooking.
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Long-Grain Rice: Fluffy rice works best; rinse it before cooking to remove excess starch.
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Queso Blanco: Get a good-quality queso; it melts beautifully and adds creaminess to the dish.
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Bell Peppers: Use colorful peppers for added crunch and flavor; they give a great visual appeal too.
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Onion: A sweet onion brings out the best flavors; cook until translucent for maximum sweetness.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves enhance the aroma; don’t skip it if you love bold flavors!
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Spices: Cumin and chili powder add warmth and depth; adjust according to your spice preference.
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Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro brightens the dish with flavor; sprinkle some on top before serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Rice: Begin by rinsing 1 cup of long-grain rice under cold water until it runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce to low heat, cover tightly, and simmer for about 18 minutes until all water is absorbed.
Sear the Steak: While the rice cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your bite-sized steak pieces seasoned with salt and pepper. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes or until nicely browned and cooked to your liking.
Add Aromatics & Veggies: Toss in chopped onions and bell peppers into the same skillet once your steak is done. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they soften and release their wonderful aroma. Stir in minced garlic during the last minute to avoid burning.
Create Creamy Queso Sauce: Lower the heat slightly and pour in your queso blanco into the skillet with steak and veggies. Stir gently until melted and creamy—this should take roughly 3-4 minutes. If needed, add a splash of milk for extra creaminess.
Combine Everything Together: Fluff your cooked rice with a fork before adding it into the skillet mixture. Gently fold everything together until well combined—each grain coated in cheesy goodness! Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve & Enjoy!: Spoon generous portions onto plates or bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired for that pop of color! Dive into this irresistible dish while it’s warm—your taste buds will thank you!
Now you’re ready to wow your family or friends with this delightful Steak & Queso Rice recipe! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
You Must Know
- Steak & Queso Rice is a flavor-packed dish that balances protein and comfort
- The creamy queso adds richness, while the tender steak brings satisfaction
- This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that will keep everyone coming back for seconds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating your steak to enhance flavor, then cook it before preparing the queso rice. This sequence ensures everything is warm and ready to serve together, maximizing deliciousness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out beef for chicken or even shrimp. Experiment with different cheeses in your queso mix or add fresh herbs for an aromatic twist that suits your taste buds perfectly.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess for that fresh-made taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve maximum flavor, let your steak rest after cooking; this keeps it juicy
- When making queso, use low heat to prevent separation and ensure smooth sauce consistency
- Always taste as you go; seasoning adjustments can make all the difference in flavor
Cooking Steak & Queso Rice always reminds me of family gatherings where we’d devour it while sharing stories and laughter around the table. Those moments are priceless.
FAQ
Can I use leftover steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover steak works great and saves time on preparation.
What type of rice is best for Steak & Queso Rice?
Long grain or jasmine rice are excellent choices for this flavorful dish.
Is there a vegetarian version of Steak & Queso Rice?
Yes! Substitute steak with grilled vegetables or tofu for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

Steak & Queso Rice
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Description
Steak & Queso Rice is a vibrant and indulgent dish that perfectly combines savory steak, creamy queso, and fluffy rice. This one-pot meal is not only delicious but also brings memories of joyful gatherings and shared laughter. With its bold flavors and colorful presentation, it’s a surefire hit for both casual dinners and festive celebrations.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ribeye or sirloin steak (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup queso blanco
- 1 cup bell peppers (chopped)
- 1/2 cup onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until it runs clear. In a saucepan, combine the rice, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18 minutes until all water is absorbed.
- While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season steak pieces with salt and pepper, then sear for about 3-4 minutes per side until browned.
- Add chopped onions and bell peppers to the skillet; sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic during the last minute.
- Lower the heat and add queso blanco to the skillet; stir until melted and creamy (about 3-4 minutes). If too thick, add a splash of milk.
- Fluff cooked rice with a fork before adding it to the skillet mixture. Gently mix until combined, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Serve warm in bowls or plates garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg