Name: Steak and Queso with Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 lb ribeye steak; 2 cups cooked white or brown rice; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 2 tbsp cream cheese; 1 cup milk or cream; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste; 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Few things satisfy quite like a hearty plate of steak and queso with rice. Tender, juicy steak pairs beautifully with creamy, melty queso, all served over a fluffy bed of seasoned rice. This dish brings together bold flavors and comforting textures that are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend indulgence.

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The beauty of steak and queso with rice is how versatile it is. Whether you want it smoky and spicy or mild and creamy, you can adjust the seasonings and cheese blend to suit your taste. It feels like restaurant-quality food, yet it’s simple enough to prepare at home.

Why You’ll Love This Steak and Queso with Rice

This recipe combines the best of both worlds: rich, protein-packed steak and luscious, cheesy sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser that makes a complete meal with minimal effort. Plus, you can customize the queso by experimenting with cheeses or adding jalapeños and tomatoes for a Tex-Mex flair.

What’s the Best Cut of Steak for This Dish?

For the most tender and flavorful result, opt for a cut like ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak. Ribeye offers marbling and richness, while sirloin is leaner yet still juicy. Flank steak works great when sliced thin against the grain, keeping it tender and perfect for soaking up all that delicious queso.

Ingredients for the Steak and Queso with Rice

Steak is the star of this dish, bringing hearty, savory flavor and a satisfying bite. Choose a well-marbled cut to keep it juicy and flavorful. Rice serves as the base, absorbing all the savory juices and creamy queso. Long-grain white or brown rice works perfectly here. Queso is what ties everything together with its rich, creamy texture — a blend of cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a touch of cream cheese makes it irresistibly gooey. A bit of garlic and onion add depth of flavor, while spices like cumin and smoked paprika give the dish a warm kick. A drizzle of olive oil helps the steak sear beautifully, and fresh cilantro can be sprinkled on top for a pop of freshness.

How To Make the Steak and Queso with Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Rinse your rice under cold water, then cook it according to package instructions with a pinch of salt and a splash of olive oil. Once cooked, fluff it with a fork and set aside, keeping it warm.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Steak

Pat the steak dry and season generously with salt, pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a little olive oil and sear the steak on each side for 3–4 minutes until it reaches your preferred doneness. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

Step 3: Make the Queso

In a saucepan, melt a bit of butter and sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant. Add a splash of milk or cream, then stir in shredded cheeses gradually, whisking until smooth and creamy. Keep warm over low heat.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Spoon the warm rice onto plates, top with slices of steak, and drizzle the queso generously over everything. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired and serve immediately.

Serving and Storing Steak and Queso with Rice

This steak and queso with rice is hearty enough to serve as a complete meal for about 4 hungry people. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Serve it hot, straight from the pan to the plate, ensuring the queso stays melty and the steak tender. If you have leftovers, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to the queso if it needs loosening.

What to Serve With Steak and Queso with Rice?

Roasted Vegetables

Oven-roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots make a colorful and healthy side.

Black Beans

A spoonful of seasoned black beans adds extra protein and a deliciously creamy contrast.

Guacamole

Fresh and zesty guacamole is always a welcome addition for a Tex-Mex touch.

Corn on the Cob

Sweet and buttery corn complements the smoky flavors of the steak.

Crisp Green Salad

A simple salad with lime vinaigrette balances out the richness of the cheese sauce.

Warm Tortillas

Soft flour tortillas can turn this dish into flavorful wraps for a fun variation.

Pickled Jalapeños

For those who love heat, pickled jalapeños add the perfect tangy kick.

Want More Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this steak and queso with rice, here are some other delicious dinners you’ll enjoy:

• Easy Chicken Fried Rice for a quick, flavorful one-pan meal.
• Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni when you crave creamy pasta.
• Skirt Steak Rice Bowls with Chimichurri for a herby twist on steak and rice.
• Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potato Bake for a comforting slow-cooked option.
• Creamy Mushroom Sauce for Steak to change up your steak toppings.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add jalapeños or keep it mild? Did you use a different cut of steak?

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Conclusion

This steak and queso with rice is the perfect way to enjoy a satisfying dinner that feels both indulgent and easy to make. With just a few fresh ingredients and a little love, you can bring restaurant-worthy flavors to your own kitchen. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!

Steak and Queso with Rice