When I whipped up Steak Queso Rice for the first time, I couldn’t believe how quickly it became a go-to meal in our house. The tender sirloin steak paired perfectly with the fluffy basmati rice, and the creamy, indulgent white queso drizzled over the top was just the cherry on top.

It’s like comfort food, Tex-Mex style, right in one bowl. Every bite feels like a celebration of rich, bold flavors, and what’s even better? It’s super easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for the family or having friends over, this dish is set to steal the spotlight!

Ingredients You’ll Need

I’ve carefully chosen these ingredients to bring out the best in this recipe. Each plays a key role, so follow along for tips to make the most of them!

1 ½ cups basmati rice – Rinsing this rice first gives you that ideal fluffy texture.
3 cups chicken broth – Adds a rich, savory depth to the rice.
1 chicken bouillon cube – Enhances the flavor of the broth.
1 cup crushed tomatoes – Provides a slight tang and gorgeous color.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Adds warmth and aroma to the dish.
1 onion, finely chopped – For a base that’s sweet and savory.
1 teaspoon paprika – Gives that smoky kick to the rice.
½ teaspoon cumin – Just enough to add earthiness.
Salt and pepper to taste – Always adjust as needed.
2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing and toasting the rice.
1 pound sirloin steak, thinly sliced – Perfectly tender and bursting with flavor.
1 tablespoon butter – Adds richness when cooking the steak.
1 teaspoon Montreal steak seasoning – For bold, simple seasoning.
1 cup white queso, warmed – Creamy, cheesy goodness to finish the dish.
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped – A bright, fresh garnish.

Note: Makes 4 generous servings.

Recipe Variations

This recipe is incredibly adaptable, so feel free to experiment with it!

Vegetarian-Friendly: Swap the steak for grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or black beans for a hearty, meatless twist.
Turn Up the Heat: Add some diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or cayenne for a spicier kick.
Rice Alternatives: Jasmine rice or brown rice both work well if you don’t have basmati on hand.
Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based queso and skip the butter to make it dairy-free.

Cooking Time

Here’s the breakdown so you can plan ahead easily:

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Equipment You’ll Need

Here are the kitchen tools that will make cooking a breeze:

Large skillet or saucepan – Essential for cooking the flavorful rice.
Knife and cutting board – To prep your steak and veggies efficiently.
Measuring cups and spoons – To portion everything accurately.
Nonstick pan – For searing the steak to perfection.

How to Make Steak Queso Rice?

Making Steak Queso Rice is as simple as it is exciting. You’ll love how the flavors come together!

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

Start by rinsing the basmati rice under cold running water until it runs clear. This removes excess starch, keeping the rice light and fluffy instead of sticky when cooked.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Onion

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once warmed, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Cook them for around two minutes, stirring often, until they turn fragrant and just translucent. This base adds wonderful depth to the overall dish.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Add the rinsed rice to the skillet with the sautéed garlic and onion. Stir it constantly for about two minutes, allowing the rice to toast lightly. This step enhances the natural nuttiness of basmati rice.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

Pour in the chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, and crumble the bouillon cube into the mixture. Stir in paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce to low heat. Cover and simmer for about 18-20 minutes, letting the rice absorb all the liquid and flavors.

Step 5: Cook the Steak

While the rice is cooking, season the steak slices with Montreal steak seasoning. Heat butter and olive oil in a nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Sear the steak strips for about 4-5 minutes per side, adjusting cook time based on how you like your steak done.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and allow it to sit for about five minutes. Fluff it up using a fork, then plate it up. Top the rice with the seared steak strips and drizzle generously with hot queso. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and serve warm.

Credit: sweetteaandsprinkles.com

Tips to Make It Better

When I make this recipe, I always keep these tips in mind to ensure it’s a hit every time!

Always rinse your rice. It’s the magic step for that light, fluffy texture.
Don’t overcook the steak. Medium-rare to medium works best for tender, juicy pieces.
Taste and adjust as you cook. Seasoning is key, so don’t hesitate to tweak it!

How to Serve Steak Queso Rice?

Serve Steak Queso Rice in wide, shallow bowls for the best presentation. Neatly arrange the seared steak strips on top of the rice, then drizzle that creamy queso over everything. Add a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a burst of color. I love pairing it with warm tortillas on the side or slices of fresh avocado for an extra touch.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Steak Queso Rice offers a satisfying blend of flavors and nutrients.

Calories: 629
Protein: 33g
Carbohydrates: 78g
Fat: 19g

Make Ahead and Storage

Refrigerate Leftovers: Store the dish in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat over the stove or in the microwave with a splash of liquid for moisture.
Freezing Instructions: Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to two months. Simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here’s why you need to try this at least once (but probably more):

Quick and Easy: It’s simple to follow while delivering amazing, complex flavors.
Highly Versatile: You can modify it endlessly, from proteins to spice levels.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Portion it out for stress-free lunches or dinners later in the week.
Comfort Food Vibes: It’s an indulgent, hearty meal that leaves everyone feeling full and content.
Showstopper Presentation: It looks as good as it tastes, guaranteed to impress guests.

Get ready to turn your kitchen into your favorite Tex-Mex hotspot with this Steak Queso Rice recipe. Happy cooking!