If you’ve ever craved a meal that’s rich, satisfying, and full of bold Tex-Mex flavor, look no further than Steak & Queso Rice. This dish is everything you want in a comfort bowl—juicy steak, fluffy basmati rice, and a warm blanket of creamy white queso. It’s simple enough for a weeknight and flavorful enough to impress at any gathering.
Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just want a new go-to recipe, this guide will walk you through everything from picking the right steak to nailing the queso drizzle. 🌮
🔥 Why Is Steak & Queso Rice So Addictive?
What makes this dish irresistible is the contrast of textures and flavors: tender strips of steak, fluffy grains of rice, and creamy queso layered into every bite.
Inspired by Tex-Mex cuisine, this dish is a social media sensation. It has blown up on TikTok and Pinterest thanks to its affordability, simplicity, and visual appeal. And once you try it, you’ll understand why—it’s like a cheesier, cozier version of a burrito bowl.
Don’t skip the rice prep—using the right grain is crucial! Basmati rice is ideal due to its ability to stay fluffy and absorb flavor without getting mushy. Need help? Check out this guide to cooking perfect basmati rice.
🧀 Let’s Talk Queso (It’s the Star of the Show)
Queso is what sets this dish apart. This isn’t just melted cheese—it’s the creamy glue that binds steak and rice into a unified flavor experience.
A good white queso sauce uses a mix of white American cheese and Monterey Jack, with a splash of cream. Want a little heat? Add diced jalapeños or chili flakes. Queso’s creamy texture works beautifully here because it coats the grains of rice without overpowering the beef.
Wondering if queso is worth it? This breakdown of cheese nutrition facts shows that it’s both flavorful and satisfying in moderation.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s your shopping list to make this delicious bowl come alive:
2 cups basmati rice
2 ½ cups chicken broth
1 cube chicken bouillon
1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb sirloin steak, thinly sliced
2 tbsp butter
Montreal steak seasoning, to taste
White queso (store-bought or homemade)
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Warm flour tortillas (optional)
👨🍳 How to Make Steak & Queso Rice
- Prep the Rice Like a Pro
Rinse basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear
Sauté garlic and onion in olive oil
Toast the rice for 2 minutes
Add tomatoes, broth, bouillon, and spices
Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 20 minutes
Rest for 5 minutes, then fluff
- Cook the Steak to Perfection
Season the sirloin with Montreal steak seasoning
(Need help? Here’s a great seasoning tip guide)
In a hot skillet with butter and oil, sear the steak strips for 4–5 minutes per side
Let rest before serving
- Time to Build the Bowl
Spoon the fluffy tomato-infused rice into bowls
Add the sizzling steak on top
Drizzle generously with white queso
Garnish with cilantro and serve with warm tortillas
💡 Pro Cooking Tips
Rinse your rice – Removes starch and prevents clumping
Toasting = flavor – Toasting rice before boiling enhances nuttiness
Let the rice rest – Creates perfect texture
Add queso right before serving – Keeps it creamy and melty
🌀 Recipe Variations to Try
Want to get creative? Try these variations:
- 🌶️ Mexican Steak & Rice Bowl
Add black beans, corn, jalapeños, lime juice
Finish with extra queso and chopped cilantro
- 🍲 Crockpot Cheesy Steak & Queso Rice
Layer all ingredients in a slow cooker (except queso)
Cook on low for 3–4 hours
Stir in queso at the end
- ⚡ Simple Cheesy Steak Bowl
Minimalist version: steak, rice, cheese—done in 25 minutes
🧂 Serving Ideas & Pairings
Looking to build out your meal? Here are some great pairings:
Drinks
Mexican lager or citrusy iced tea
Sides
Mexican street corn
Black bean and avocado salad
Green salad with lime vinaigrette
Tortilla Wrap Option
Wrap leftovers in a flour tortilla for a next-day burrito
🧊 Storage, Reheating & Meal Prep
Refrigeration:
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Freezing:
Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months
Thaw in fridge overnight before reheating
Reheating Tips:
Microwave: Add a splash of broth to revive queso
Skillet: Heat gently with olive oil until warm
Great for meal prep and weekday lunches!
🧠 Nutrition & Health Breakdown
One serving (with steak and queso) contains:
Calories: ~620
Protein: ~38g
Carbs: ~55g
Fat: ~28g
Fiber: ~3g
Lighten it up:
Use reduced-fat cheese
Spray olive oil instead of pouring
Add sautéed peppers or steamed broccoli for volume
Frequently Asked Questions ❓
Can you eat cheese and rice together?
Yes! Many cuisines do it—think Italian risottos and paneer biryani. Queso adds richness and flavor.
What cheese works best with steak?
White queso made from white American and Monterey Jack offers the best melt and flavor profile.
Do steak and rice go together?
Absolutely! The combo balances protein and carbs and lets you build flavor with seasonings.
Is queso good on rice?
It’s fantastic. Queso brings creaminess and savoriness that rice absorbs beautifully.
Can I use ground beef instead?
Yes! It’s budget-friendly and still delicious with queso and rice.
✅ Final Thoughts
Steak & Queso Rice is one of those dishes that delivers every single time—whether you’re serving it to guests or meal-prepping for the week. With a few pantry staples and a bit of flair, you’ll be rewarded with a bowl full of comfort, flavor, and cheesy goodness. Try a variation, spice it up, or keep it classic—this dish adapts to you.
