Steak Queso Rice Recipe

Steak Queso Rice Recipe | Easy One-Pan Cheesy Dinner

When I first made this Steak Queso Rice, it felt like I had brought the best parts of a Tex-Mex restaurant right into my own kitchen. The aroma of seasoned steak and savory rice filled the house, and the first bite was pure comfort. It’s a dish that reminds me of shared family meals, blending robust flavors with simple, satisfying ingredients.

I knew right away this recipe was a keeper, perfect for a cozy night in or for impressing guests without spending all day cooking. You can also enjoy similar comfort with Chinese Fried Chicken Wings for a fun twist on dinner nights.

Ingredients for Steak Queso Rice

To create this delicious meal, you’ll want to gather the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and a few tips to make it perfect.

1 cup long grain white rice – This type of rice is ideal because it stays fluffy and absorbs all the savory flavors from the broth and spices without getting mushy.
2 tablespoons olive oil – A good quality olive oil is used to toast the rice, giving it a slightly nutty flavor base.
1 small onion, finely chopped – Fresh onion provides a much better aromatic and sweet flavor compared to onion powder.
1 tablespoon minced garlic – Using fresh garlic cloves and mincing them yourself offers a more pungent and vibrant taste than pre-minced jarred garlic.
2 cups chicken broth – Using broth instead of water is a game-changer; it infuses the rice with a deep, savory flavor right from the start.
8 ounces tomato sauce – This adds a subtle tang and rich color to the rice, balancing the creaminess of the queso.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Essential for bringing out all the other flavors in the dish.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground pepper will provide a more potent and complex spice note.
1 teaspoon ground cumin – This spice is key for that classic, earthy Tex-Mex taste.
1 teaspoon dried cilantro – Adds a hint of citrusy, herbaceous flavor that complements the other spices.
1 pound sirloin steak, sliced – Sirloin is a great choice as it’s a lean but tender cut that cooks quickly and stays juicy.
2 tablespoons butter – Used for searing the steak, it adds richness and helps create a beautiful brown crust.
Montreal steak spice, to taste – A pre-blended seasoning that makes flavoring the steak incredibly easy and delicious.
Pancho’s White Queso, for drizzling – This is the star ingredient that brings the creamy, cheesy magic to the dish.
Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish – A sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end brightens up the entire meal.
Flour tortillas, for serving – Warm tortillas are perfect for scooping up every last bite of the rice and steak. You can also serve them alongside Boneless Chicken Wings Recipe for a complete Tex-Mex spread.

Note: The quantities listed will provide several generous servings, perfect for a family dinner.

Variations to Try

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to adapt. Here are a few variations to customize it to your liking.

Protein Swaps: If you’re not in the mood for steak, this dish works wonderfully with grilled chicken thighs or seasoned shrimp. Cook them just as you would the steak for an equally delicious meal.
Different Grains: For a healthier twist, you can substitute the white rice with brown rice or quinoa. Keep in mind that these grains will require different cooking times and liquid amounts, so adjust accordingly.
Make It Vegan: Create a plant-based version by using vegetable broth and a dairy-free queso alternative. For the protein, grilled portobello mushrooms or seasoned tofu make excellent substitutes for the steak.
Kick Up the Spice: If you like your food with a bit more heat, feel free to add some diced jalapeños along with the onions and garlic. A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce can also be stirred into the rice.

Cooking Time

This recipe comes together surprisingly quickly, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Equipment You Need

You don’t need any fancy gadgets for this recipe, just a few kitchen basics.

Large Skillet with a Lid: This is for cooking the rice and ensuring it steams perfectly.
Second Large Skillet: You’ll need this to cook the steak separately so it gets a nice sear.
Knife and Cutting Board: For slicing the steak and chopping the onion and garlic.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure all your ingredient ratios are just right for the best flavor.
Fork: Used at the end to gently fluff the cooked rice for the perfect texture.

How to Make Steak Queso Rice

This recipe is straightforward and broken down into simple steps. Follow along to create a mouthwatering meal with ease.

Prepare the Rice Base

First, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the rice and stir it constantly until it turns a light golden brown. This toasting step adds a wonderful, nutty depth of flavor. Then, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, continuing to sauté until they are soft and fragrant.

Cook the Rice

Next, pour in the chicken broth and tomato sauce, and stir in the salt, pepper, cumin, and dried cilantro. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it bubble for about two minutes. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet tightly, and let the rice simmer for 20 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed.

Cook the Steak

While the rice is simmering, you can prepare the steak. Melt the butter in a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sirloin and season it generously with Montreal steak spice. Cook the steak, stirring it occasionally, until it reaches your desired level of doneness, then remove it from the heat.

Rest and Assemble

After 20 minutes, turn off the heat under the rice but keep the lid on. Let the rice rest for another 10 minutes; this allows it to finish steaming and become perfectly fluffy. To serve, fluff the rice with a fork, place it on a platter, top it with the cooked steak, and drizzle generously with warm white queso. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with warm tortillas.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

After making this recipe a few times, I’ve picked up some tricks that take it to the next level.

I find that letting the steak marinate in a little olive oil and the steak spice for about 15-20 minutes before cooking makes it even more tender and flavorful.
Don’t skip the step of toasting the rice. I once tried to save time by skipping it, and the final dish lacked that rich, nutty undertone that makes it so special.
I recommend warming the queso in a small saucepan over low heat before drizzling. This ensures it’s perfectly smooth and melds beautifully with the hot rice and steak.
For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the finished dish. The acidity cuts through the richness of the queso and brightens everything up.

How to Serve Steak Queso Rice

This dish is a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Serve it on a large platter for a family-style meal. After topping the rice with the steak and a generous drizzle of queso, sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top for a pop of color and freshness. You can also set out bowls of extra toppings like diced avocado, sour cream, or pico de gallo so everyone can customize their own serving.

Nutritional Information

Here is a general overview of the nutritional content for this recipe.

Calories: Provides a substantial amount of energy, making it a satisfying main course.
Protein: High in protein from the sirloin steak, which is great for muscle maintenance.
Carbohydrates: The rice provides the primary source of carbohydrates for sustained energy.
Fat: Contains fats from the olive oil, butter, and queso, contributing to the rich flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is convenient for meal prep and stores well.

To store, let any leftovers cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days.

For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to one month. The texture of the rice may change slightly upon reheating, but it will still be delicious.

When you’re ready to eat, reheat leftovers in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth to the rice to help it regain its fluffy texture, and add a fresh dollop of queso to bring back the creaminess.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this Steak Queso Rice. Here are just a few.

Incredible Flavor Fusion: The combination of savory steak, perfectly seasoned rice, and creamy, rich queso creates a Tex-Mex flavor experience that is truly unforgettable. It’s a dish that satisfies all your comfort food cravings.
Quick and Simple to Make: With a total time of only 35 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It delivers a restaurant-quality meal without requiring hours of effort in the kitchen.
Wonderfully Versatile: This dish is a true multitasker. It’s comforting enough for a simple family dinner but also impressive enough to be served to guests at a weekend gathering or party.
Budget-Friendly Luxury: You get all the indulgent flavors of dining out but at a fraction of the cost. Using affordable cuts like sirloin steak makes it an economical choice for a luxurious meal at home.