Easy Steak Queso Rice Recipe | Cheesy Comfort Food Dinner
Make easy steak queso rice for a hearty, cheesy dinner. Tender steak bites served over rice with creamy queso sauce — perfect for weeknight meals or comfort food cravings.
Equipment
- Cutting board and knife
- Skillet or cast iron pan
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin, ribeye, or flank steak
- 2 cups cooked long-grain or jasmine rice
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (or Velveeta for creaminess)
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 1 tbsp butter
- ½ cup diced onion
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Garnishes: cilantro, lime wedges, jalapeños, salsa
Instructions
- Prep steak: Pat steak dry, season with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin. Rest for 15 minutes.
- Cook rice: Prepare rice according to package instructions. Fluff and season lightly with paprika.
- Sear steak: Heat olive oil in skillet. Sear steak pieces 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
- Make queso: In saucepan, melt butter. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Add milk, then stir in cheese gradually until smooth. Season with paprika and optional jalapeños.
- Combine: Layer rice in skillet, top with steak, and pour queso sauce over. Toss gently or serve layered.
- Finish: Garnish with cilantro, lime wedges, and jalapeños. Serve hot.
Notes
- Tip: Rest steak before slicing to lock in juices.
- Make-ahead: Cook steak and rice in advance; prepare queso fresh before serving.
- Variations: Swap rice for cauliflower rice, add bacon crumbles, or make vegetarian with mushrooms.
- Serving idea: Present in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic, crowd-pleasing centerpiece.