Cheesy Steak Queso Rice

Cheesy steak and queso rice brings together savory steak bites with ultra creamy, melty cheese rice in a bowl that satisfies every craving for comfort food. This dish is the answer when you want a love letter to Tex Mex flavors but all in one pan and ready to please a crowd or hungry family.

I first made this for a Friday night after a long week and now it is our go to anytime we want something special but not fussy. The cheesy rice always gets scraped clean.

Ingredients

• Sirloin or ribeye steak: thick tender and easy to sear choose a well marbled cut for juiciest results
• Olive oil: helps develop caramelized edges on your steak bites use a good quality extra virgin
• Garlic and onion powder: boost flavor and add a savory backbone
• Smoked paprika: brings subtle smokiness Spanish smoked paprika is especially bold
• Salt and black pepper: classic seasoning for steak
• Lime juice: adds a pop of brightness at the end if using fresh is best
• Long grain white rice: fluffs up perfectly and cooks evenly select a brand you trust
• Chicken or beef broth: infuses the rice with deep savory flavor opt for a low sodium variety
• Butter: toasts the rice and adds richness pick a high fat European style if possible
• Heavy cream: delivers velvety texture without splitting look for fresh cream with no additives
• Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese: for gooey melt
• Queso blanco or nacho cheese sauce: adds that classic Tex Mex cheese pull
• Salt: for seasoning your rice always taste as you go
• Toppings like cilantro: adds freshness jalapeños for crunch and heat avocado for buttery richness pick vibrant and fresh produce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Rice:

Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat and add the rice Stir constantly for about two minutes so each grain is evenly toasted which creates a nutty depth of flavor

Simmer the Rice:

Pour in the broth Bring everything up to a gentle boil then immediately turn down to low Cover and let it slowly cook about fifteen to eighteen minutes The steam gently finishes the rice and allows it to absorb every bit of broth

Finish the Queso Rice:

Stir in the heavy cream shredded cheese and queso sauce while the rice is still hot Mix until completely melted and creamy If desired add a pinch of salt Taste to perfect the balance Let it stay warm over low heat stirring now and then

Sear the Steak Bites:

While the rice simmers heat a sturdy skillet over medium high and add olive oil Season the steak bites all over with garlic powder onion powder smoked paprika salt and black pepper While the pan is hot add steak in a single layer Let each side brown and get a crisp edge about two to three minutes per side for medium Cook in batches if you need to not crowd the pan Finish with a quick splash of lime juice if you like tang Warm steak is key

Assemble and Serve:

Spoon a big scoop of cheesy rice into each bowl or plate Top right away with steak bites then load up with your favorite garnishes such as chopped cilantro jalapeños creamy avocado or a dollop of sour cream Serve immediately for best texture

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I am always amazed by how the queso sauce smooths out the rice While some might go for more steak the magic for me is in that lush cheesy rice I grew up sitting at the table with my cousins passing around bowls of fixings and it always felt like a celebration

Storage Tips

Store leftover steak and queso rice separately in airtight containers for up to three days Reheat in a skillet over low heat adding a splash of broth or milk to the rice to bring back its original creamy texture Reheat steak just enough to warm through to keep it tender

Ingredient Substitutions

Try using boneless skinless chicken thighs or even mushrooms for a non beef version You can swap cheddar for pepper jack or Monterey Jack for extra kick If you need the dish to be dairy free use a plant based cheese and cream substitute

Serving Suggestions

Pile everything into a soft warm tortilla for build your own burritos Add extra toppings like black beans sautéed bell peppers or charred corn for even more Tex Mex character Drizzle with hot sauce if you like a little fiery finish

Cultural Context

This recipe draws inspiration from Tex Mex cuisine a delicious fusion of Texas and Mexican flavors that is all about bold spices cheese and hearty proteins Cheesy rice is a staple at many family tables in the southwest and when topped with steak becomes a festive meal with roots in the cross border culinary traditions

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What cut of steak works best for this dish?

Sirloin and ribeye are ideal for their tenderness and rich flavor, but other cuts like flank or strip can be used if preferred.

→ Can I make the queso rice with brown rice?

Yes, but increase the cook time and broth as needed since brown rice takes longer and absorbs more liquid.

→ What cheeses melt best for the queso rice?

Cheddar, Mexican blend, and queso blanco or nacho cheese sauce create a creamy, smooth texture that pairs perfectly with the steak.

→ Are there recommended toppings for added flavor?

Fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, sour cream, avocado, or guacamole all complement the dish beautifully.

→ How can I add extra veggies or make it heartier?

Stir in black beans, sautéed peppers, or corn for added texture and flavor, or serve with warm tortillas for a fuller meal.

→ Is this dish spicy?

It's mild as written, but you can easily amp up the heat with more jalapeños or a spicier cheese sauce.