Jump to Recipe Print Recipe“What’s for dinner?” This question can often feel like a mini crisis, but let me introduce you to a satisfying solution: the Steak Queso Rice Delight. With tender steak strips nestled on a bed of fragrant basmati or jasmine rice, all smothered in a creamy queso sauce, this dish transforms your weeknight meals into something extraordinary. Not only is it a quick fix for busy evenings, but it’s also customizable with an array of fresh toppings, allowing you to craft a bowl that suits your taste every time. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly dinner or a fun way to impress friends, this recipe has you covered. Ready to dive into a bowl that’s warm, comforting, and bursting with possibilities? Let’s get cooking! Why You’ll Love This Steak Queso Recipe Simplicity: The straightforward steps make this dish perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Flavor-packed: With a luscious blend of creamy queso and seasoned steak, each bite is a savory delight that will leave you craving more. Customizable: Enjoy a variety of toppings, from fresh cilantro to zesty jalapeños, so you can create a personalized meal every time. Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. Plus, for more tasty options, check out my Creamy Smothered Chicken Rice or delightful Salmon Rice Bowls. You won’t believe how easy and satisfying this meal can be! Steak Queso Rice Delight Ingredients For the Steak Steak Strips – Choose tender cuts for a heartier meal; chicken thighs or ground beef are great alternatives. Olive Oil – Ideal for searing steak; any cooking oil can be used if you prefer. Salt – Enhances overall flavor; sea salt provides a delightful alternative. Black Pepper – Adds depth and heat; opt for freshly ground for the best taste. Garlic Powder – Gives a savory touch; fresh minced garlic is a fantastic substitute. Paprika – Brings color and a hint of smokiness; smoked paprika elevates the flavor significantly. Ground Cumin – Imparts an earthy taste, adding complexity to your dish. For the Rice Jasmine or Basmati Rice – Absorbs flavors beautifully; long-grain white rice works in a pinch. Beef Broth – Adds moisture and flavor; for a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth. Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the rice; substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free twist. For the Queso Sauce Heavy Cream – Creates that signature creaminess; canned coconut milk is a great dairy-free option. Cream Cheese – Thickens the queso; choose a non-dairy cream cheese for a vegan version. Shredded White Cheddar Cheese – The key flavor component; Monterey Jack or Colby Jack are excellent replacements. Cayenne Pepper (optional) – For a spicy kick; feel free to omit for a milder dish. For the Toppings Fresh Cilantro – Adds a vibrant finish with herbal notes. Jalapeño – Provides a fresh, spicy kick; slice them thinly for more heat. Sour Cream – Creamy and tangy, it enhances the dish wonderfully. Diced Tomatoes – Offers freshness and acidity to elevate the flavors. Let these ingredients guide you in creating your very own Steak Queso Rice Delight—a dish brimming with warmth and customizable goodness! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Steak Queso Rice Delight Step 1: Prepare Rice In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of beef broth, 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil over medium heat. Once boiling, stir in 1 cup of jasmine or basmati rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside. Step 2: Sear Steak While the rice cooks, season 1 pound of steak strips with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and ground cumin. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the seasoned steak strips to the hot skillet and sear for about 3–4 minutes on each side, or until a deep brown crust forms. Remove the skillet from heat and let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces. Step 3: Make Queso Sauce In a small saucepan, heat 1 cup of heavy cream over low heat. Once warmed, blend in 4 ounces of cream cheese, stirring until it’s fully melted and incorporated. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of shredded white cheddar cheese and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, continuing to stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the queso sauce is too thick, add a splash of cream to reach your desired consistency. Step 4: Assemble Bowls To assemble the Steak Queso Rice Delight, divide the fluffy rice among your serving bowls. Top each portion generously with sliced steak, then ladle warm queso sauce over everything, letting it cascade down the sides for a delightful visual. Step 5: Garnish Finally, finish your dish with an array of fresh toppings. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro, diced jalapeños, and diced tomatoes over the queso topped steak. Add a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess, and serve each bowl hot, ready to enjoy the comforting layers of flavors in every bite. Expert Tips for Steak Queso Rice Delight Pre-marinate Steak: Enhance flavor by marinating steak strips in your favorite spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This step adds depth to the Steak Queso Rice Delight. Rice Fluffiness: When reheating leftover rice, add a splash of beef broth to restore fluffiness and moisture for an enjoyable texture. Creamy Queso: To maintain a smooth consistency in your queso sauce, whisk continuously while reheating; this prevents separation and clumping. Avoid Overcooking: Monitor steak closely while searing to prevent overcooking; aim for medium-rare to ensure tenderness and juiciness in your dish. Customize Toppings: Feel free to mix and match toppings! Add avocado, green onions, or your favorite hot sauce for a unique twist on the classic Steak Queso Rice Delight. Make Ahead Options These Steak Queso Rice Bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the rice and queso sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply cook the rice and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the queso, let it cool before transferring it to a container; this helps maintain its creamy texture. When ready to serve, reheat the rice with a splash of broth and whisk the queso over low heat until warmed through. As for the steak, you can marinate it overnight for deeper flavor but cook it fresh for the best texture. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy a delicious Steak Queso Rice Delight with minimal effort when dinner time rolls around! What to Serve with Steak Queso Rice Delight Elevate your dining experience by pairing this creamy and satisfying dish with accompaniments that harmonize perfectly. Crunchy Corn Salsa: A vibrant mix of corn, bell peppers, and red onions adds a refreshing crunch that complements the creaminess of the queso. Zesty Lime Guacamole: Creamy avocado with a tangy kick enhances the richness of the steak while providing a smooth contrast to the rice. Smooth and flavorful, it invites you to savor every bite. Crisp Garden Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing, crisp texture, balancing the hearty flavors of the rice bowl. Combine it with a hint of lime to match the dish’s zest! Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized bell peppers, zucchini, and onions bring natural sweetness and earthiness, perfectly contrasting the savory notes of the queso sauce. Spicy Pickled Jalapeños: For those who love an extra kick, pickled jalapeños add a zesty, tangy punch that enhances the overall flavor experience without overpowering it. Chilled Mexican Beer: A light and crisp beer pairs beautifully with this dish, cutting through the richness and complementing the savory notes of the steak and queso. Fluffy Cornbread: Slightly sweet and buttery, a piece of cornbread is the perfect side to soak up the creamy queso, rounding out your dining experience with warmth. Enjoy exploring these pairings, and create a comforting, layered meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table! Steak Queso Rice Delight Variations Get creative with your Steak Queso Rice Delight and make it uniquely yours, bursting with flavor and texture! Vegetarian Delight: Use roasted portobello mushrooms or chickpeas instead of steak for a hearty plant-based option. You’ll still enjoy that satisfying bite! Cauliflower Rice: Swap regular rice for cauliflower rice to create a low-carb, gluten-free version. It absorbs the creamy queso beautifully! Extra Heat: Add diced serrano peppers or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick. Perfect for those who crave a bit of heat in their meals! Creamy Swaps: Opt for Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a protein boost and tangy flavor. It’s a healthier twist that works wonders. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Pepper Jack for a lively, spicy queso. The more, the merrier when it comes to cheese! Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like parsley or chives to the topping mix for vibrant flavor. They add a fresh zing that brightens the dish wonderfully. Smoky Flavor: Incorporate chipotle powder in your seasoning for a smoky depth. It adds a completely different layer to the classic flavors. Avocado Love: Slice up fresh avocado as a topping for a creamy, rich texture. It brings an extra indulgent touch that complements the dish perfectly. Each of these variations can help you elevate your Steak Queso Rice Delight, making it a meal that you look forward to every time! And if you’re looking for more mouthwatering ideas, consider trying my Cheesy Steak Rice for a delightful twist or explore the comforting flavors of Smothered Chicken Rice. Enjoy crafting your perfect bowl! How to Store and Freeze Steak Queso Rice Delight Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep steak, rice, and queso sauce separate for optimal texture and flavor retention. Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the rice and queso sauce in individual portions for up to 3 months. Avoid freezing cooked steak, as it can become tough when reheated. Reheating: To reheat the rice, add a splash of beef broth and microwave until warm. For the queso sauce, whisk in a little cream while reheating on the stovetop to keep it creamy and smooth. Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare the rice and queso sauce in advance, storing them separately. Simply heat them up when you’re ready to assemble your Steak Queso Rice Delight for a quick weekday meal! Steak Queso Rice Delight Recipe FAQs What kind of steak is best for this recipe? Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using tender cuts like flank steak or sirloin. These cuts are perfect for achieving that juicy texture and flavor. If you prefer other options, chicken thighs or roasted portobello mushrooms can make delightful substitutes as well. How should I store leftovers of the Steak Queso Rice Delight? Very good question! Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, keep the steak, rice, and queso sauce separate until you’re ready to enjoy them again. Can I freeze the components of this dish? Of course! To freeze for later enjoyment, I recommend portioning the rice and queso sauce into airtight containers. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. However, avoid freezing the cooked steak, as it tends to become tough when reheated. How can I reheat the rice and queso without losing texture? Great question! For reheating the rice, add a splash of beef broth to restore its fluffy texture, and microwave until heated through. When reheating the queso sauce, do so gently on the stovetop while whisking in a bit of cream to ensure it stays smooth and creamy. What toppings can I add for dietary restrictions? I often customize toppings based on dietary needs! For a dairy-free option, try using non-dairy cream cheese in your queso sauce and skip the sour cream in favor of guacamole. Additionally, for a vegetarian version, simply omit the steak and substitute it with grilled vegetables or black beans. How do I know if my ingredients are fresh? Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, look for steak that’s bright red with no dark spots for freshness. Vegetables like jalapeños should be firm and vibrant, while cilantro should be fresh and green. If you’re using dairy, check that there are no unusual smells or discoloration. Fresh ingredients will significantly enhance the flavor of your Steak Queso Rice Delight! Steak Queso Rice Delight: A Comforting Weeknight Winner Steak Queso Rice Delight is a quick and customizable weeknight meal, combining tender steak strips, creamy queso sauce, and fragrant rice. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: MexicanCalories: 600 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Steak1 pound Steak Strips Choose tender cuts; chicken thighs or ground beef are alternatives.2 tablespoons Olive Oil Any cooking oil can be used.1 teaspoon Salt Sea salt provides a delightful alternative.1 teaspoon Black Pepper Opt for freshly ground for the best taste.1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic is a good substitute.1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika elevates the flavor.1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Adds complexity to the dish.For the Rice1 cup Jasmine or Basmati Rice Long-grain white rice works in a pinch.2 cups Beef Broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter Substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.For the Queso Sauce1 cup Heavy Cream Canned coconut milk can be a dairy-free option.4 ounces Cream Cheese Choose non-dairy cream cheese for a vegan version.2 cups Shredded White Cheddar Cheese Monterey Jack or Colby Jack are good replacements.1 teaspoon Garlic PowderCayenne Pepper Optional for a spicy kick.For the ToppingsFresh Cilantro For garnish.Jalapeño Slice them thinly for more heat.Sour Cream Enhances the dish wonderfully.Diced Tomatoes Offers freshness and acidity. Equipment medium saucepanLarge skilletSmall saucepan Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a medium saucepan, combine beef broth, unsalted butter, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil, stir in rice, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes.Season steak strips with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin. Heat olive oil in a large skillet, sear steak for 3-4 minutes on each side. Remove from heat and let rest.In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream. Blend in cream cheese until melted, whisk in shredded white cheddar cheese and garlic powder until smooth.Divide cooked rice among bowls, top with steak, and ladle queso sauce over each. Let it cascade down the sides.Garnish with fresh toppings: cilantro, jalapeños, tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keep components separate for better texture. Prepare rice and queso sauce in advance for easy assembly. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
