Steak Queso Rice: Easy Recipe for a Perfect Dinner Tonight

There’s something about a cozy dinner that makes you feel right at home, isn’t there? The aroma of sizzling steak mingling with cheesy goodness can brighten even the dullest of weeknights. I first whipped up this steak queso rice on a rainy evening, craving comfort food that felt indulgent yet simple. The result? A dish that truly satisfies and leaves everyone asking for seconds!

This steak queso rice recipe is perfect for those busy evenings when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. You’ll love how the creamy queso sauce envelops tender steak and fluffy rice, creating a delightful blend of flavors. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder that makes cleanup a breeze! Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is bound to impress. So, let’s dive into why you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let’s face it, when it comes to dinner, we all want something that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare. This steak queso rice delivers on both fronts! Here are a few reasons why you’ll want to make it tonight:

• Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of the ingredients in your pantry already—no last-minute grocery runs!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a fun gathering with friends, this recipe fits right in.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will rave about this cheesy, meaty delight!
• Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of flavors and textures will make your taste buds dance!

What sets this recipe apart is the rich, creamy queso that takes it over the top. It’s not just another rice and steak combination; it’s a comforting meal that warms your heart and fills your belly. You’ll find yourself closing your eyes after each bite, savoring the moment. Trust me, this is the kind of dish that makes mealtime memorable.

Ingredients Needed

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that deliver big on flavor. You might even have most of them already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

• For the Steak:
  • 1 lb (450g) flank steak, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Rice:
  • 1 cup (200g) white rice, uncooked
  • 2 cups (480ml) low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
• For the Queso:
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
  • 1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup (120g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• For Garnish:
  • Chopped fresh cilantro
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Sour cream (optional)

Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! For a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free rice blend, and if you’re vegan, swap out the steak for sautéed mushrooms or jackfruit and use plant-based cheese alternatives.

Equipment Needed

You won’t need much special equipment for this recipe, which is fantastic! Here’s what you’ll need:

• Skillet or frying pan
• Medium saucepan for rice
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons

If you don’t have a frying pan, a large pot will work just fine for cooking the steak. Just keep an eye on the heat to avoid overcooking!

Preparation Method

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps for a delicious steak queso rice:

1. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of white rice and 2 cups of chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
2. While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the sliced flank steak with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the seasoned steak to the skillet and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Stir continuously, scraping any delicious bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Once the cream is heated, gradually add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Add the cumin and cayenne pepper, mixing well.
6. Return the cooked steak to the skillet, stirring to combine it with the queso sauce. Allow everything to heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
7. When the rice is done, fluff it with a fork and serve it on plates or in bowls. Top with the steak queso mixture, and garnish with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.

And just like that, dinner is served! You’ll notice how beautiful and fragrant the dish is as you dish it out. The combination of creamy queso and tender steak over fluffy rice creates a meal that’s truly irresistible.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips to ensure your steak queso rice turns out perfectly:

• Don’t Overcook the Steak: Keep an eye on the steak while cooking; it can go from perfect to tough quickly. Aim for a nice sear while keeping it juicy.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cilantro and ripe tomatoes will bring a burst of flavor and color to your dish.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the steak and queso sauce in advance and reheat them when ready to serve.
• Adjust the Heat: If you like it spicy, add more cayenne or even some diced jalapeños to the queso sauce for an extra kick.

Cooking is all about experimentation! Don’t hesitate to adjust flavors and ingredients to your liking.

Variations & Adaptations

This steak queso rice is versatile, and here are a few variations you can try:

• Vegetarian Delight: Swap the steak for sautéed bell peppers and zucchini for a delicious vegetarian version.
• Spicy Chorizo: Substitute flank steak with crumbled chorizo for a spicy twist!
• Different Cheeses: Feel free to mix and match cheeses. Pepper Jack can add a nice heat, or you can go with a smoky cheese for depth.

These adaptations can cater to various dietary preferences and make each meal a new experience!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve your steak queso rice warm, piled high on plates or in bowls. Pair it with a refreshing salad or some tortilla chips for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a side of guacamole or pico de gallo for added flavor.

Leftovers? No problem! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to keep it creamy.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional content per serving:

• Calories: 625
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 30g

This dish is rich in protein from the steak and offers carbohydrates from the rice for energy. Plus, the cheese adds calcium and vitamins. It’s a hearty meal to keep you satisfied!

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a comforting, delicious dinner that’s easy to whip up, this steak queso rice is your answer! It’s a dish that brings warmth and joy, perfect for any occasion. Try it out and make it your own—experiment with flavors and ingredients, and see what works best for you!

I’d love to hear your thoughts! If you try this recipe, please leave a comment below or share your variations. Happy cooking, and enjoy your perfect dinner tonight!

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes! Just keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

2. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or even a plant-based cream for a lighter version.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free and check the labels on your cheese.

4. Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the steak and queso ahead of time and just reheat when ready to serve.

5. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or increase the cayenne pepper in the queso sauce for more heat.

Steak Queso Rice

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• Author: Emily Rhodes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

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Description

This steak queso rice recipe is perfect for those busy evenings when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy queso sauce envelops tender steak and fluffy rice, creating a delightful blend of flavors.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb (450g) flank steak, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup (200g) white rice, uncooked
• 2 cups (480ml) low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup (120g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• Chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
• Diced tomatoes (for garnish)
• Sour cream (optional for garnish)

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Instructions

1. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of white rice and 2 cups of chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
2. While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the sliced flank steak with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the seasoned steak to the skillet and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Stir continuously, scraping any delicious bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Once the cream is heated, gradually add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Add the cumin and cayenne pepper, mixing well.
6. Return the cooked steak to the skillet, stirring to combine it with the queso sauce. Allow everything to heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
7. When the rice is done, fluff it with a fork and serve it on plates or in bowls. Top with the steak queso mixture, and garnish with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Notes

For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free rice blend. For a vegan version, swap out the steak for sautéed mushrooms or jackfruit and use plant-based cheese alternatives.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate or bowl
• Calories: 625
• Fat: 30
• Carbohydrates: 50
• Protein: 35

Keywords: steak, queso, rice, easy dinner, comfort food