Steak & Queso Rice Bowl Recipe

Introduction

This Steak & Queso Rice Bowl is a comforting and flavorful meal that combines tender steak strips with creamy, cheesy sauce over fluffy seasoned rice. It’s perfect for a satisfying dinner that feels indulgent but is simple to prepare.

Ingredients

• 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
• 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 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)
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon sour cream
• ½ cup diced tomatoes

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium saucepan, combine beef broth, butter, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
2. Step 2: Add jasmine or basmati rice to the broth mixture. Cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.
3. Step 3: Season steak strips in a bowl with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin.
4. Step 4: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook steak strips for 3-4 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your liking. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
5. Step 5: Warm heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat. Gradually add cream cheese, stirring until melted. Slowly stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until smooth. Add garlic powder and cayenne pepper if using.
6. Step 6: Serve rice in bowls, top with sliced steak strips, then drizzle generously with the creamy queso sauce.
7. Step 7: Garnish with chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream. Add sliced jalapeños for extra heat if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use ribeye for a richer flavor, or flank steak for a leaner option.
• Substitute beef broth with vegetable broth for a lighter taste.
• For a spicier queso, increase cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños into the cheese sauce.
• Try adding black beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition in the bowl.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the queso sauce if it thickens upon cooling.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to swap in cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor and melt quality. Just choose cheeses that melt well for the best sauce consistency.

What cut of steak works best for this recipe?

Sirloin, flank, and ribeye are great choices. Sirloin and ribeye offer tenderness and flavor, while flank steak has a chewier texture but is still delicious when cooked properly.

Steak & Queso Rice Bowl Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 50 reviews

This Steak & Queso Rice Bowl is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender, seasoned steak strips served over fluffy jasmine or basmati rice, smothered in a rich and creamy homemade queso cheese sauce. With a harmonious blend of spices and fresh toppings like cilantro and diced tomatoes, it’s a perfect meal for a satisfying lunch or dinner that combines savory, smoky, and creamy elements in every bite.

• Author: Sienna
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Steak and Seasoning

• 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

Rice and Cooking Liquid

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

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)

Toppings

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

Instructions

1. Prepare the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine beef broth, butter, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low.
2. Cook the Rice: Add the jasmine or basmati rice to the simmering broth mixture. Cover the pot and let it cook gently for 15-18 minutes until the liquid is fully absorbed. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.
3. Season the Steak: In a bowl, toss the steak strips with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin to evenly coat them with the spices.
4. Cook the Steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak strips and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove from heat and let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
5. Make the Queso Sauce: In a small saucepan, gently warm the heavy cream over low heat. Gradually stir in the cream cheese until fully melted. Slowly add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with garlic powder and cayenne pepper to taste.
6. Assemble the Bowl: Spoon generous portions of the fluffy rice into serving bowls. Top with the sliced steak strips, then drizzle the warm queso cheese sauce over the entire bowl.
7. Add Toppings: Finish each bowl with fresh chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream. Add sliced jalapeños if desired for extra heat.

Notes

• Choose quality steak cuts such as sirloin, flank, or ribeye for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Adjust cayenne pepper to control the heat level in the queso sauce or omit if preferred.
• Use beef broth for cooking the rice to add depth of flavor compared to water.
• Letting the steak rest after cooking ensures juiciness and tenderness.
• Substitute dairy-free cheese and cream alternatives if you want to make a lactose-free version.

Keywords: Steak rice bowl, queso sauce, creamy cheese bowl, skillet steak recipe, easy dinner bowl, cheesy rice bowl, comfort food