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Steak Queso Rice Bowl Recipe

4.8 from 124 reviews

Steak Queso Rice is a savory and satisfying bowl combining tender, seasoned steak strips with flavorful jasmine rice and a rich, creamy queso sauce. Enhanced with optional fresh toppings like cilantro, jalapeños, and diced tomatoes, this dish offers a perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and heartiness in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Steak:

  • 1 lb steak strips (sirloin, flank, or ribeye)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cumin

For the Flavorful Rice:

  • 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Queso Sauce:

  • 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Optional Toppings:

  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon sour cream
  • ½ cup diced tomatoes

Instructions

  1. Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring beef broth, butter, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to a boil. Add the rice, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the liquid is fully absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside.
  2. Season and Cook the Steak: In a bowl, combine steak strips with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin, ensuring even coating. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until the steak is nicely browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove from heat and let the meat rest for 5 minutes.
  3. Prepare the Queso Sauce: Warm the heavy cream over low heat in a small saucepan. Stir in cream cheese until it melts smoothly. Gradually add shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring constantly until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Season with garlic powder and cayenne pepper (if using) for a hint of spice. Keep the sauce warm on low heat.
  4. Assemble the Steak Queso Rice Bowl: Portion the cooked rice into serving bowls. Top with steak strips, then generously drizzle with warm queso sauce.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Add optional toppings such as chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeño, and a spoonful of sour cream to personalize and enhance the flavors. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Notes

  • Choose your preferred steak cut based on tenderness and flavor; sirloin and ribeye are excellent choices.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper in the queso for desired spice level or omit for a milder sauce.
  • Letting the steak rest after cooking ensures juicier, more flavorful meat.
  • This recipe can be made dairy-free by substituting cheeses and creams with plant-based alternatives.
  • Use fresh herbs and toppings to add brightness and contrast to the rich queso sauce.

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