Steak and Queso Rice is a hearty, satisfying dish that brings bold flavors to your table. This easy recipe blends tender steak, creamy queso, and perfectly seasoned rice. It turns any meal into a delicious experience. With simple steps and rich spices, this dish creates a memorable twist on classic comfort food.

What Makes Steak and Queso Rice So Irresistible
This recipe shines because it balances flavor, texture, and simplicity. The seasoned rice cooks to fluffy perfection. The steak adds savory depth. The smooth queso ties everything together. Every bite feels warm, rich, and satisfying.
Ingredients for the Perfect Steak and Queso Rice
You only need a few basic ingredients to craft this flavorful dish. They blend seamlessly to create a comforting meal.
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 chicken bouillon cube
- 14 oz crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 small chopped onion (optional)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound sliced sirloin steak
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Montreal steak seasoning
- White queso for topping
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Warm flour tortillas (optional)
How to Make Steak and Queso Rice
Prep the Rice
Rinse the basmati rice until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch and keeps the rice fluffy. It also helps the grains stay separate during cooking.
Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and onion. Stir for two minutes until the mixture smells fragrant. The onion should turn soft and translucent.
Toast the Rice
Add the rinsed rice to the skillet. Stir for two minutes to toast it lightly. This step builds flavor and enhances the texture.
Add Seasonings and Liquids
Pour in chicken broth and crushed tomatoes. Add the bouillon cube, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture well to combine everything evenly.
Cook the Rice to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let the rice cook for 18 minutes. Once done, turn off the heat and let it rest for five minutes. Fluff it with a fork afterward.
Prepare the Steak
Season the steak strips with Montreal seasoning. Heat oil and butter in a separate skillet. Cook the steak for five minutes per side for medium-rare. Adjust the cooking time to match your preference.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked steak over the rice. Drizzle warm white queso on top. Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with tortillas for a more filling meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container. They stay fresh in the fridge for three days. Reheat the dish in the microwave or a skillet. Add a splash of broth to prevent dryness.
Freezing and Make-Ahead Options
This dish freezes well. Store it in freezer-safe bags for two months. Thaw it overnight before reheating. You can also prepare the steak and rice in advance. Reheat and assemble them when needed for an easy meal-prep solution.
Simple Substitutions and Tasty Variations
This recipe adapts well to different preferences. Swap steak with tofu or grilled vegetables for a vegetarian version. Switch to jasmine or long-grain rice. Add jalapeños or chili flakes if you love heat.
Helpful Tips for the Best Results
Rinse the rice for a fluffy texture. Use a large skillet to ensure even cooking. Check the steak often to achieve your desired doneness. Taste as you cook and adjust seasonings.
Nutrition Information
Each serving offers:
- 629 calories
- 78g carbohydrates
- 33g protein
- 19g fat
- 87mg cholesterol
- 900mg sodium
Steak and Queso Rice is a flavorful dish that transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying meal. Enjoy this recipe when you crave bold flavors and comforting textures.
PrintBold & Flavorful Steak and Queso Rice Recipe
A rich and flavorful Steak & Queso Rice dish made with tender steak strips, seasoned basmati rice, creamy queso, and fragrant spices. Perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients
2 cups basmati rice
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 chicken bouillon cube
14 oz crushed tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, chopped (optional)
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound sirloin steak, sliced
2 tablespoons butter
Montreal steak seasoning
White queso, for topping
Fresh cilantro
Flour tortillas, optional
Instructions
1. Rinse the basmati rice until the water runs clear.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté garlic and onion.
3. Add rinsed rice and toast for two minutes.
4. Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth.
5. Add bouillon cube, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes.
7. Let rice rest for five minutes, then fluff.
8. Season steak with Montreal seasoning.
9. Heat oil and butter in another skillet and cook steak strips for 4–5 minutes per side.
10. Add cooked steak over the rice and drizzle with white queso.
11. Garnish with cilantro and serve with tortillas.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat with a splash of broth to keep rice moist.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Prep rice and steak ahead for easy assembly.
Add jalapeños or chili flakes for extra heat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 629
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 900
- Fat: 19
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 0.2
- Carbohydrates: 78
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 33
- Cholesterol: 87
