Name: Steak and Queso Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 lb sirloin steak; 1 cup long-grain white rice, cooked; 1 cup queso cheese (Monterey Jack or cheddar), shredded; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced (any color); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped; Sour cream; Avocado slices

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that brings together the hearty richness of tender steak with the creamy, dreamy allure of melted cheese, look no further than this irresistibly satisfying Steak and Queso Rice. This comforting one-pan meal effortlessly combines juicy, perfectly seared sirloin with a symphony of warm spices and velvety queso cheese, all nestled atop fluffy long-grain rice. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both simple to make and bursting with flavor, perfect for any night when you want a meal that feels special but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.

Steak and Queso Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every fantastic dish starts with ingredients that bring the magic to life, and Steak and Queso Rice is no exception. Each component plays a crucial role— from the tender steak adding hearty protein, to the cheese providing luscious creaminess, and the vegetables lending vibrant color and freshness. Keeping it simple ensures the flavors shine bright and the texture is just right.

1 lb sirloin steak: Choose a good-quality cut for the best flavor and tenderness.
1 cup queso cheese (Monterey Jack or cheddar): This melts beautifully, giving the dish its signature creamy texture.
1 cup long-grain white rice: Fluffy and light, it soaks up all the cheesy, spicy goodness.
1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings fragrant warmth and balances the richness.
1 tsp paprika: Offers a subtle smokiness that elevates the steak’s flavor.
1 tsp cumin: Adds earthy notes to complement the cheese beautifully.
1 tsp chili powder: Introduces a gentle kick without overpowering the dish.
1 bell pepper, diced (any color): Provides sweetness, crunch, and a pop of color.
2 tbsp olive oil: Perfect for searing your steak and sautéing veggies evenly.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.

How to Make Steak and Queso Rice

Step 1: Prepare Your Fresh Ingredients

Begin by dicing the onion and bell pepper into small, even pieces so they cook uniformly. Mince the garlic finely; this will ensure it blends seamlessly into the dish without any overpowering chunks. Taking some time here prevents surprises later during cooking.

Step 2: Sear the Steak to Perfection

Heat your olive oil in a sturdy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place the sirloin steak carefully and let it sear deeply for about 4-5 minutes on each side. This locks in the juices and creates a beautiful crust full of flavor. Once done, set the steak aside to rest—this step is crucial for tender slices.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Bell Pepper

In the same skillet, toss in your diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté them until they soften and become fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This builds the aromatic base that will infuse the rice with mouthwatering flavor, so don’t rush it.

Step 4: Combine Rice with Spices and Vegetables

Add your cooked rice to the skillet, followed by paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to evenly distribute the spices and blend the textures. This is where the steak and queso rice starts coming together into one harmonious dish.

Step 5: Melt in the Queso Cheese

Gradually stir in the queso cheese, letting it melt slowly into the warm rice and veggies. This creates an irresistibly creamy sauce that binds every bite with luxurious flavor. Keep stirring gently until the cheese is fully incorporated.

Step 6: Slice the Steak and Combine

Slice the rested steak against the grain into thin pieces to maximize tenderness. Fold the steak slices into the cheesy rice mixture, allowing the flavors to mingle and the steak to warm up. Serve immediately while it’s perfectly hot.

How to Serve Steak and Queso Rice

Garnishes

To brighten up the rich Steak and Queso Rice, top it with fresh cilantro for a burst of herbal freshness, creamy sour cream for tangy contrast, and slices of ripe avocado for buttery smoothness. These simple additions add layers of texture and flavor that elevate every mouthful.

Side Dishes

This dish stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, charred corn on the cob, or a zesty slaw to introduce refreshing crunch and balance. If you’re feeling adventurous, a side of black beans or grilled vegetables makes for a hearty complementary meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive twist, serve Steak and Queso Rice in mini bell peppers or inside crispy tortilla bowls, turning the meal into handheld delights ideal for gatherings. You can also layer it in a casserole dish, topping with extra queso and broiling briefly for a bubbly golden crust sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Steak and Queso Rice keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often meld even more deliciously overnight, making it a perfect next-day meal that’s quick to reheat.

Freezing

If you want to save this dish for longer, allow it to cool fully before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It freezes well for up to 2 months, making it a fantastic make-ahead option for busy days when convenience is key.

Reheating

Reheat your frozen or refrigerated Steak and Queso Rice gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to restore its creamy texture. Stir occasionally to warm it evenly without drying it out, preserving that cheesy, tender goodness.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?

Absolutely! While sirloin is tender and flavorful, flank or skirt steak can also work beautifully if sliced thinly against the grain. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid toughness.

Is it necessary to use queso cheese?

Queso cheese is ideal because of its meltability and mild flavor, but you can substitute a blend of Monterey Jack with mild cheddar if needed. Cream cheese or a cheese sauce can also work in a pinch for that creamy texture.

Can I make Steak and Queso Rice vegetarian?

While steak is the star, you can easily swap it out for grilled mushrooms, tofu, or plant-based meat alternatives and still enjoy a tasty, rich version of this dish.

What type of rice is best for this dish?

Long-grain white rice is preferred for its fluffy texture that soaks up the cheese and spices well. You can use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber, but cooking times may vary.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level is mild to moderate thanks to paprika, cumin, and chili powder. You can easily adjust the amount of chili powder or add fresh jalapeños if you want extra heat.

Final Thoughts

Steak and Queso Rice is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug after a long day—rich, comforting, and downright delicious. Once you try this recipe, it quickly becomes a beloved favorite because it combines bold flavors with simple ingredients and quick preparation. I can’t wait for you to make it your own and share it with friends or family for a cozy, tasty experience that hits all the right notes.

Steak and Queso Rice Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 13 reviews

Author: Julian
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

A hearty and flavorful dish combining tender sirloin steak with creamy queso cheese and seasoned rice, enhanced with sautéed vegetables and spices for a delicious, comforting meal.

Instructions

Prepare the ingredients: Dice the onion and bell pepper and mince the garlic finely to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
Sear the steak: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the sirloin steak with salt and pepper, then sear it for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned. Remove from the skillet and let it rest to retain juices before slicing thinly against the grain.
Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onions and bell peppers. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Add rice and spices: Stir in the cooked rice along with paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and cook until heated through, allowing the spices to evenly coat the rice and vegetables.
Melt the queso cheese: Gradually add the shredded queso cheese to the skillet, stirring continuously until it melts completely and blends into a creamy sauce enveloping the rice mixture.
Combine and serve: Add the sliced steak back into the skillet and gently fold it into the queso rice mixture. Serve hot topped with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and avocado slices for a fresh and rich finish.

Notes

For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños with the bell peppers.
Use freshly cooked rice for best texture; day-old rice can also work but may require slightly more moisture.
Monterey Jack cheese provides a creamier melt, while cheddar adds a sharper flavor to the queso.
Resting the steak after searing helps maintain juiciness and tenderness.
Optional garnishes like cilantro, sour cream, and avocado add freshness and balance the richness of the queso.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Searing and Sautéing
Cuisine: Tex-Mex