Description

This Steak & Queso Rice recipe blends tender seared steak with creamy, cheesy rice for a comforting and flavorful meal. Perfectly cooked white rice is enriched with a rich queso cheese sauce, enhanced with optional sour cream and bell peppers, then topped with juicy steak strips and fresh cilantro lime garnish. Ideal for a quick stovetop dinner that satisfies hearty cravings.

Ingredients

Scale

Steak

1 lb flank steak, sirloin, or your preferred cut of steak
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)

Rice & Queso

1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups beef broth (or water)
1 cup shredded queso cheese (or Velveeta for a smoother melt)
1/4 cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional, for extra flavor)

Garnish & Extras

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
1 tablespoon lime juice (optional, for added freshness)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and beef broth (or water). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the Steak: While the rice cooks, season the steak with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and chili powder if using. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare or adjust time for your preferred doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
Make the Queso Sauce: Lower the heat to medium in the same skillet. Add the shredded queso cheese or Velveeta and allow it to melt, stirring frequently to prevent burning. For extra creaminess, stir in sour cream until smooth. Optionally, add diced bell peppers and cook until they soften slightly for additional flavor and color.
Assemble the Dish: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork, then stir in the cheesy queso sauce until the rice is evenly coated. Top the cheesy rice with the sliced steak strips. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and a drizzle of lime juice if desired to brighten the flavors.
Serve: Serve the Steak & Queso Rice immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture and enjoy this rich, cheesy, and satisfying meal.

Notes

Choose beef broth over water for a richer rice flavor.
Adjust steak seasoning and cooking time based on your preferred doneness.
Sour cream and bell peppers are optional but add creaminess and freshness.
Slice steak thinly to ensure tenderness and easier eating.
Use Velveeta for a smoother queso melt, or shredded queso for a more traditional texture.
Leftovers can be reheated gently on stovetop or microwave but are best fresh.