Description

Steak Queso Rice is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender steak, creamy cheese sauce, and fluffy rice. This one-pan meal is flavorful, filling, and perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The creamy queso sauce coats every grain of rice, making each bite rich and satisfying, while the steak adds protein and savory depth.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups cooked white or brown rice
300 g (about 10 oz) steak, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix)
½ cup milk or cream
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Optional Add-ins:

Corn kernels
Diced tomatoes
Black beans
Spinach or zucchini

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Instructions

Prepare ingredients: Slice the steak, dice the onion and bell pepper, and mince the garlic. Measure cheese and milk.
Cook steak: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season steak with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear 2–3 minutes per side until browned but tender. Remove from skillet.
Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, cook onion and bell pepper for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
Make queso sauce: Lower heat to medium. Add milk or cream and stir with vegetables. Gradually add cheese while stirring constantly until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or chili powder.
Combine rice and steak: Add cooked rice and mix thoroughly to coat with queso sauce. Return steak to skillet and fold into mixture.
Optional add-ins: Fold in corn, tomatoes, black beans, or other vegetables for extra flavor and texture.
Adjust consistency: If too thick, add a splash of milk or cream and stir until desired texture is reached.
Serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Use cooked rice that is slightly cooled to avoid a mushy texture.

Thinly sliced steak ensures quick cooking and tenderness.

Stir constantly while making the queso sauce to prevent clumping or burning.

Adjust seasonings to taste; chili powder, paprika, or cumin can add extra depth.

Serve immediately for the best cheesy, gooey texture.

Prep Time: 10
Cook Time: 15