Steak Queso Rice Recipe
This Steak Queso Rice Recipe combines tender sirloin, fluffy rice, cheddar queso, garlic, and spices for a bold, cheesy dinner everyone will crave.
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan with lid
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Small saucepan (if making queso separately)
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin steak thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice uncooked
- 2 1/4 cups beef broth
- 1 small onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 bell pepper diced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the queso sauce:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 3/4 cup milk or half-and-half
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Pinch of cayenne optional
Optional toppings:
- Fresh cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
- Diced tomatoes
- Sour cream
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Steak
- In a bowl, toss the sliced steak with chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Let it sit for about 10 minutes while you prep everything else. This quick rest builds flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the steak in a single layer. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned but still tender. Don’t overcook — it will cook a little more later.
- Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
- In the same skillet, add onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 4–5 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Your kitchen should smell incredible right now.
Step 4: Cook the Rice
- Stir in the uncooked rice. Toast it lightly for 1 minute.
- Pour in beef broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15–18 minutes until rice is tender.
Step 5: Make the Queso
- In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a paste.
- Slowly add milk while whisking constantly. Let it thicken slightly.
- Add cheddar and Monterey Jack. Stir until smooth and creamy. Add cayenne if desired.
Step 6: Bring It Together
- Return the steak to the skillet with the cooked rice.
- Pour the queso sauce over everything and gently fold together.
- Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes so the flavors blend.
- And just like that, your Steak Queso Rice Recipe is ready.