If you’re craving something bold, cheesy, and satisfying, this Steak Queso Rice is about to be your new go-to dinner. Juicy seared steak, creamy queso sauce, tender rice, and savory spices come together in one skillet for a meal that’s hearty, simple, and mouthwateringly good.
It’s a family-friendly, protein-packed comfort dish that’s ready in about 30 minutes. Think of it as a Tex-Mex-inspired rice bowl—no need for takeout when you can whip this up at home!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (or cooked rice if using leftovers)
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¾ cup prepared queso dip (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup milk (optional, to thin queso)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 small bell pepper, diced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving
Preparation:
Step 1: Season the Steak
- In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced steak with salt, pepper, chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder. Set aside to marinate for 10–15 minutes while you prep the veggies.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned but not overcooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Veggies and Rice
- In the same skillet, add the remaining oil and the butter. Sauté onion and bell pepper until soft (about 4–5 minutes). Stir in the uncooked rice and toast for 1–2 minutes. Add the beef broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 15–18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Make It Cheesy
- Once the rice is cooked, stir in the queso dip and cheddar cheese. Add a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce. Return the steak to the skillet and stir everything until well combined and heated through.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and squeeze of lime. Serve hot in bowls and enjoy the melty, cheesy goodness!
Variation:
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the queso
- Tex-Mex Twist: Stir in black beans, corn, or salsa
- Low-Carb Option: Swap rice with cauliflower rice (reduce broth)
- Cheese Choices: Use pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or a queso blanco
- Burrito Bowl Style: Serve with shredded lettuce, sour cream, and guac
COOKING Note:
If using pre-cooked rice, reduce the broth to ½ cup and add the rice when you stir in the queso and cheese. This makes it a quick 20-minute meal!
Serving Suggestions:
- Burrito Bowl: Top with avocado, sour cream, and pico de gallo
- Stuffed Peppers: Use as a filling for baked bell peppers
- Tortilla Wraps: Wrap it in a tortilla with shredded lettuce for a cheesy steak burrito
- Side Dish: Serve alongside refried beans, roasted veggies, or Mexican street corn
- Game Day Appetizer: Scoop into mini tortillas or cups and top with jalapeños
Tips:
- Use thin-sliced steak so it cooks quickly and stays tender
- Preheat the skillet well before searing for the best browning
- Let the steak rest before slicing to lock in the juices
- Use leftover rice for a faster version—just mix everything in after cooking the veggies
- Add a little cream cheese to the queso for extra creaminess
⏱️ Time Overview:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
🍽️ Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 4 servings):
- Calories: ~480
- Protein: ~34g
- Carbohydrates: ~28g
- Fat: ~26g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sodium: ~600mg
❓FAQs
Can I use leftover steak?
- Yes! Simply skip the searing step and stir it in at the end to heat through.
Is queso dip the same as nacho cheese?
- They’re similar—both work. Queso tends to be creamier and often includes green chiles.
Can I make it ahead of time?
- Yes! It reheats well on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or milk if it thickens.
Can I use brown rice?
- Sure, but increase the cook time and liquid accordingly. Brown rice takes longer to soften.
Is this spicy?
- Not very. You can make it spicier by adding jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy queso.
📝 Conclusion:
This Steak Queso Rice is the kind of meal that brings comfort and bold flavor to the dinner table—all in one skillet. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this cheesy steak and rice combo will leave everyone full and satisfied.
It’s cozy, crave-worthy, and totally customizable. One bite, and you’ll be hooked.