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–+ servings
Steak & Queso Rice

Steak & Queso Rice

A delicious one-bowl meal featuring juicy steak, melted queso, and seasoned rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty meal prep option!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Mexican, Tex-Mex
Servings 4

Equipment

  • Skillet or grill pan
  • Rice cooker or pot
  • Cutting board & knife

Ingredients
  

For the Steak:

  • 1 lb steak sirloin or flank steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

For the Rice:

  • 1 cup long-grain rice or basmati rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt

For the Queso:

  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup milk
  • ¼ cup cream cheese
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon butter

For Garnish:

  • 1 tablespoon cilantro chopped
  • 1 lime cut into wedges
  • 1 jalapeño sliced (optional for heat)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook the Rice

  • In a pot or rice cooker, add rice, chicken broth, olive oil, and salt.
  • Cook according to the rice cooker's instructions or simmer on the stove for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 2: Prepare the Steak

  • In a skillet or grill pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
  • Season the steak pieces with salt, black pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  • Cook the steak for 4-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Queso Sauce

  • In the same skillet, add butter and melt over medium heat.
  • Add cream cheese and milk, stirring until smooth and melted.
  • Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook, stirring constantly, until the cheese is fully melted and the queso is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

  • In a large bowl or serving platter, layer the cooked rice at the bottom.
  • Top with the steak pieces and drizzle generously with the queso sauce.
  • Garnish with chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and sliced jalapeños (if using).

Serving Suggestions:

  • ✅ Serve with Mexican street corn or a simple side salad.
  • ✅ Pair with guacamole and tortilla chips for extra flavor.
  • ✅ For a spicier version, add hot sauce to the queso or on top of the steak.

Pro Tips:

  • ✔ For extra flavor, marinate the steak for 30 minutes in a mixture of lime juice, olive oil, and spices.
  • ✔ If you prefer a richer queso, add extra cream cheese or a little bit of sour cream for creaminess.
  • ✔ You can prep the rice and queso sauce in advance for a quicker assembly later.

Notes

Notes:

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk to loosen the queso sauce.
Keyword beef and cheese, cheesy rice, easy dinner, steak and queso rice
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