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Steak Queso Rice

Tender seasoned steak strips served over perfectly cooked rice and smothered in creamy queso sauce, creating the ultimate comfort food experience.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Dish
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 485

Ingredients
  

Steak and Seasonings
  • 1.5 pounds ribeye steak cut into strips
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
Rice Base
  • 2 cups white long-grain rice
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 bell pepper diced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
Queso Sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 8 oz white American cheese cubed
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
Garnish
  • 2 tomatoes diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Medium saucepan
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

  1. Season steak strips with salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Let sit for 15 minutes at room temperature.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add seasoned steak strips and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until nicely browned. Remove steak and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, add diced onion and bell pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Add rice to the pan and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to coat with the vegetable mixture and pan drippings.
  5. Pour in beef broth gradually, stirring well. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  6. While rice cooks, prepare the queso sauce. In a medium saucepan, heat heavy cream over medium-low heat. Gradually add cubed American cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
  7. Add shredded cheddar cheese to the cream mixture, continuing to stir until completely melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Once rice is cooked, stir in butter and return the cooked steak strips to the pan, mixing gently to distribute evenly.
  9. Pour the warm queso sauce over the steak and rice mixture, stirring carefully to coat everything evenly.
  10. Top with diced tomatoes and fresh cilantro before serving immediately while hot.

Notes

For extra flavor, let the steak marinate in the seasonings for up to 2 hours. The queso can be made ahead and reheated gently. Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 3 days.