
This Steak Queso Rice recipe makes a truly comforting rice bowl that combines juicy steak strips, creamy cheese sauce, and flavorful rice for a meal that feels extra special but is simple enough for any weeknight. I return to this recipe whenever I need something both satisfying and a little bit indulgent.
My family always lights up when they see steak queso rice on the stove. I made it for a birthday once and now it is the top-requested dish for celebrations.
Ingredients
- Steak strips: Using sirloin, flank or ribeye ensures tenderness. If you buy quality meat from a trusted butcher, you will taste the difference
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle earthiness and helps sear the steak well. Choose a brand with a peppery finish for best flavor
- Salt and black pepper: Enhance all the layers. Select kosher salt and freshly ground pepper if possible
- Garlic powder: Punched up with real depth. Opt for one without additives
- Paprika: Provides smokiness. Spanish paprika is worth seeking out
- Cumin: Gives warmth and a savory note. Buy ground cumin that smells robust and fresh
- Jasmine or basmati rice: Delivers fluffy grains with aroma. Look for aged rice for best texture
- Beef broth: Creates a rich and savory rice base. Go for a low sodium option if you prefer to control salt
- Butter: Makes the rice velvety. European butters offer extra creaminess
- Smoked paprika: Adds an extra burst of woodsy flavor
- White cheddar cheese: For the queso, brings sharpness. A block you grate yourself melts best
- Monterey Jack cheese: Gives extra melt and mild creaminess. Go for whole milk versions
- Heavy cream: Is the secret to a luscious queso. Use one with no stabilizers
- Cream cheese: Makes the sauce incredibly smooth and is key for the right texture
- Cayenne pepper (optional): For a gentle heat. Pinch from a fresh bottle for boldness
- Fresh cilantro, jalapeño, sour cream, and diced tomatoes: Make bright toppings that add contrast. Choose ripe tomatoes and fragrant cilantro for a fresh finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Rice:
- Bring beef broth, butter, salt, garlic powder and smoked paprika to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add jasmine or basmati rice and reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for fifteen to eighteen minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork for perfect texture then set aside while preparing the other components.
- Season and Cook the Steak:
- Mix steak strips with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika and cumin in a bowl to evenly coat. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium high heat until shimmering. Add the steak in a single layer and sear for three to four minutes per side until browned and cooked as desired. Remove from heat and allow to rest uncovered for five minutes to keep the steak tender and juicy.
- Prepare the Queso Sauce:
- Warm heavy cream over low heat in a small saucepan. Add cream cheese and stir patiently until melted and fully combined. Gradually add shredded white cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring nonstop until the sauce becomes glossy and smooth. Sprinkle in garlic powder and a pinch of cayenne pepper for depth then keep the sauce warm on very low heat so it stays creamy.
- Assemble the Steak Queso Rice Bowl:
- Spoon fluffy rice into bowls, making a bed for the toppings. Lay seared steak strips across the rice then pour warm queso sauce on top, making sure to coat each piece of steak for maximum flavor.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Top your bowl with chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños and a dollop of sour cream. The fresh pops of color and flavor make every bite exciting. Serve your bowls right away while everything is warm and melty.

You Must Know
- Loaded with protein and hearty enough to satisfy hungry eaters
- Flexible to adjust spice and toppings to your own taste
- Great for meal prep because components store well separately
My favorite part is always the queso I could eat it by the spoonful and my family loves to finish the pot with tortillas just to soak up every drop. This recipe has made its way to the center of our family dinner table more times than I can count it is pure comfort food.
Storage Tips
Keep leftover steak rice and queso sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The rice and steak will last for up to three days while the queso can be gently reheated with a splash of cream or milk to keep it smooth. Always reheat the meat and sauce over low heat to avoid drying out the steak or breaking the cheese sauce.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have sirloin ribeye or flank even skirt steak can be used for a different texture. For the rice try brown rice for more fiber or use chicken broth in a pinch. You can swap the cheeses for pepper jack for extra spice or use Colby cheese for mildness. Light cream works for the queso if you want it a bit lighter but keep cream cheese for smoothness.
Serving Suggestions
This bowl is a meal on its own but it pairs well with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. Tortilla chips on the side can turn this into a party dish for sharing. I sometimes serve little bowls of extra toppings like pickled onions or avocado slices so everyone can build their perfect bowl.

Cultural Context
Steak queso rice bowls take inspiration from Tex Mex cuisine combining the love of steak with creamy queso and seasoned rice. Similar recipes might show up in Southwest family kitchens served up for big gatherings or family game nights. It is the type of dish designed to bring everyone together around the table.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Which steak cut is best for this dish?
Ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak work well due to their tenderness and robust flavor when sliced thin.
- → How do I keep the queso sauce smooth?
Heat the sauce gently on low, stir constantly, and avoid boiling to prevent clumping or graininess.
- → Can I substitute the rice variety?
Jasmine and basmati offer great texture, but you may use long-grain white rice as an alternative.
- → What toppings pair well with this bowl?
Try fresh cilantro, jalapeño slices, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream for brightness and contrast.
- → How should I slice the steak for serving?
Let the steak rest, then cut against the grain for more tender bites and better presentation.
- → How spicy is the queso sauce?
The queso is mild; add cayenne pepper if you prefer more heat, or omit it for a gentler flavor.