Irresistible Steak Queso Rice for a Cozy Dinner Night
There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty dish that brings together bold flavors and creamy textures. Steak Queso Rice is one such meal that hits all the right notes. With seared steak nestled over fluffy rice and drizzled with a luscious queso sauce, this recipe has quickly become a favorite in our household. It’s not just delicious; it’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re having a cozy family dinner or entertaining friends on a weekend night.
What I love most about Steak Queso Rice is how simple it is to whip up without sacrificing flavor. It strikes that perfect balance between being indulgent and satisfying while still being quick enough for a weeknight dinner. Plus, who can resist gooey cheese paired with seasoned steak? Trust me; your taste buds are in for a treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Quick to prepare: You can have this delightful dish ready in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
– Flavor-packed comfort: The combination of spices and creamy queso makes every bite comforting and fulfilling.
– Customizable: You can easily tweak it to suit your preferences, ensuring everyone at the table leaves happy.
– Perfect for gatherings: Impress your family and friends with this showstopper that’s sure to be the star of any meal.
– Leftover friendly: Enjoy the tasty goodness as leftovers—if there’s any left!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather everything you need for this delicious Steak Queso Rice. It’s always a joy to watch how these ingredients come together to create something magical.
For the Steak
– 450g (1 lb) flank or sirloin steak
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
For the Queso Sauce
– 1½ cups whole milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– ½ tsp ground cumin
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
For the Rice
– 2 cups broth or water
– Salt, as needed
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup long-grain white rice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
For Garnishing
– Fresh cilantro, chopped
– Lime wedges
– Avocado slices
– Sliced jalapeños
Variations
One of the best parts about cooking is that you can always add your personal touch! Here are some fun variations to make this dish even more delightful:
– Swap the protein: Try using chicken or shrimp instead of steak for a different twist on flavors.
– Make it vegetarian: Substitute beans or grilled vegetables for steak if you’re looking for a plant-based option.
– Add some heat: Toss in diced serrano peppers or use spicy cheese to kick up the heat level.
– Experiment with grains: Use quinoa or brown rice instead of white rice for added nutrition and flavor.
How to Make Steak Queso Rice
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Pat the steak dry with paper towels, which helps achieve that beautiful sear. Rub it with olive oil and coat both sides with paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This seasoning will enhance the meat’s natural flavor and create a delicious crust when cooked.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Heat a large skillet until very hot. Sear the seasoned steak for about 4–5 minutes per side depending on its thickness and your preferred doneness. This step is crucial as it locks in juices while giving you that perfect caramelization.
Step 3: Rest and Slice
Transfer the seared steak to a cutting board and let it rest for about 5–10 minutes. Allowing it to rest ensures those flavorful juices redistribute throughout the meat. When ready, slice thinly across the grain; this helps maintain tenderness in each bite.
Step 4: Cook the Rice
Rinse your rice under cold water until the water runs clear—this removes excess starch that can make it gummy. In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat before stirring in rice along with garlic powder to toast lightly. Then add broth or water, bring it to a boil, cover, and simmer on low for about 18–20 minutes until tender.
Step 5: Make the Queso Sauce
Using the same skillet from earlier, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped garlic and cook until fragrant—this usually takes about one minute. Pour in whole milk next; bring it gently to simmering point while stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Add Cheese & Seasonings
Gradually incorporate shredded cheeses into your simmering milk mixture until smooth. Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper according to taste—this will create that rich queso flavor that ties everything together beautifully.
Step 7: Assemble Your Dish
Spoon cooked rice onto plates or bowls first as your base layer. Top generously with sliced steak followed by ladling warm queso sauce over everything. Don’t forget those finishing touches with garnishes like cilantro, lime wedges, avocado slices, and jalapeños—they elevate your dish visually and flavor-wise!
And there you have it—the ultimate comfort food experience with Steak Queso Rice! Each mouthful is packed with flavor that brings warmth to any table setting. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for Making Steak Queso Rice
Making Steak Queso Rice is not only delicious but also a fun cooking experience! Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
– Choose the right cut: Flank or sirloin steak works best for this recipe as they are tender and flavorful. Don’t shy away from asking your butcher for recommendations if you’re unsure!
– Let the steak rest: After searing, allow the steak to rest for 5–10 minutes. This helps retain its juices, making each bite incredibly tender.
– Rinse the rice: Rinsing the rice before cooking removes excess starch and prevents it from becoming too sticky, resulting in fluffy grains that complement the cheesy sauce perfectly.
– Stir in the cheese gradually: When adding cheese to the queso sauce, do it slowly while stirring continuously. This helps achieve a smooth, creamy texture without clumps.
– Customize your spice level: Adjust the chili powder and jalapeños according to your preference. If you like it spicy, feel free to add more; if not, keep it mild!
How to Serve Steak Queso Rice
Serving Steak Queso Rice can be as simple or fancy as you wish! This dish is perfect for casual family dinners or entertaining guests. Here are some ideas on how to present it beautifully.
Garnishes
– Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness.
– Lime wedges: Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing that brightens up the flavors.
– Avocado slices: Creamy avocado complements the dish perfectly and adds richness.
Side Dishes
– Mexican street corn salad: This sweet and savory salad pairs wonderfully with steak queso rice.
– Black beans: A side of seasoned black beans adds protein and balances out the meal.
– Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips make a great accompaniment for scooping up any leftover queso sauce.
– Simple green salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens can lighten up the meal and provide a refreshing contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Meal prep can save you time during busy weeknights! Here’s how to store and reheat your Steak Queso Rice effectively.
Storing Leftovers
– Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them into airtight containers.
– Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing
– Divide leftovers into individual portions and place them in freezer-safe containers or bags.
– Freeze for up to 2 months. Be sure to label with dates!
Reheating
– Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave on low power until heated through.
– Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to revive creaminess.
FAQs
If you have questions about making Steak Queso Rice, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:
Can I use another type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for added spice or even cream cheese for extra creaminess.
Is there a vegetarian option?
Yes! You can substitute steak with sautéed mushrooms or grilled vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version of this dish.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare both the steak and queso sauce in advance. Just store them separately and combine when ready to serve.
How do I make it less spicy?
To reduce spiciness, simply omit jalapeños from garnishes and adjust chili powder according to taste. You can also add more cheese to mellow out any heat.
What can I serve instead of rice?
If you prefer an alternative grain, quinoa or cauliflower rice are great substitutes that work well with queso sauce too!
Final Thoughts
I hope you feel inspired to whip up this comforting Steak Queso Rice! It’s such a satisfying meal that brings warmth and joy around the table. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and don’t hesitate to make it your own. Happy cooking!
Steak Queso Rice
Ingredients
Method
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels, rub with olive oil and coat with paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet until very hot and sear the steak for about 4–5 minutes per side.
- Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing thinly across the grain.
- Rinse the rice under cold water, then heat olive oil in a pot, stir in rice and garlic powder, add broth or water, bring to a boil, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes.
- Melt butter in the same skillet, add chopped garlic and cook until fragrant, then pour in whole milk and bring to a simmer.
- Gradually incorporate shredded cheeses into the milk mixture until smooth, then season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon cooked rice onto plates, top with sliced steak, and ladle warm queso sauce over everything. Garnish with cilantro, lime wedges, avocado slices, and jalapeños.
