Steak Queso Rice Bowl

This steak queso rice bowl brings together juicy seared steak strips, fluffy seasoned rice, and a silky homemade queso sauce—everything layered in one irresistible bowl. It is exactly the sort of meal I reach for when I want comfort food with steakhouse flavor but do not want to eat out. Each bite delivers creamy cheese, savory steak, and plenty of room for personalizing with your favorite toppings.

I first tossed this bowl together after a grocery run to use up some steak and leftover cheeses. It instantly became a family favorite. We all love customizing our bowls and drizzling on extra queso.

Ingredients

• Steak strips: From sirloin flank or ribeye bring tenderness and bold beefy flavor Choose marbled cuts for juiciness
• Olive oil: Helps brown the steak beautifully and imparts a subtle fruitiness Always use extra virgin for best results
• Salt: Seasons both steak and rice providing balanced flavor I like kosher for even sprinkling
• Black pepper: Adds a warm complex note Grind it fresh for the most flavor
• Garlic powder: Brings unbeatable savory depth and mixes smoothly with other spices
• Paprika: Infuses smokiness and a pop of color Hungarian styles have sweet undertones
• Cumin: Infuses earthy warmth and that signature steakhouse taste For punch use whole seeds that you grind fresh
• Jasmine or basmati rice: Forms the fluffy fragrant base Go for high quality long grain for the lightest texture
• Beef broth: Dials up richness in the rice Try homemade or low sodium for more control
• Butter: Adds gloss and flavor to the rice Use real butter for best taste
• Smoked paprika: Gives subtle smoky flavor to the rice Seek one labeled sweet or mild to avoid too much heat
• Shredded white cheddar: Creates creamy sharp queso Use block cheese and shred it yourself for a smoother melt
• Monterey Jack cheese: Adds sweetness and excellent melt to the queso
• Heavy cream: Forms a silk base for your cheese sauce Opt for one that is very fresh and high in fat
• Cream cheese: Lends extra body and smoothness to the queso Buy full fat for richness
• Cayenne pepper: Optional for spice Select freshly ground
• Fresh cilantro: Offers a burst of green and lifts all the flavors
• Jalapeño slices: Provide crunchy heat and vibrant color
• Sour cream: Creates a creamy cooling finish on top
• Diced tomatoes: Bring juicy zing Choose firm ripe tomatoes for the brightest topping

Instructions

Cook the Rice:

Bring beef broth butter salt garlic powder and smoked paprika to a boil in a medium saucepan Stir in jasmine or basmati rice Lower the heat cover and let simmer about eighteen minutes The rice should absorb the liquid and turn fluffy Let it rest covered for five minutes Fluff with a fork so each grain is separate

Season and Cook the Steak:

In a bowl combine steak strips salt black pepper garlic powder paprika and cumin Toss to thoroughly coat Heat olive oil in a large skillet on medium high Add the steak in a single layer Let it sear undisturbed for four minutes Flip and cook four minutes on the second side until brown at the edges and juicy inside Rest the steak five minutes before slicing to retain moisture

Prepare the Queso Sauce:

Pour heavy cream into a small saucepan Warm gently on low heat until steaming but not bubbling Whisk in cream cheese stirring until completely smooth Start adding shredded white cheddar and Monterey Jack a handful at a time Stir constantly for a lump free sauce Finish with a shake of garlic powder and optional cayenne for heat Keep warm over low so it does not thicken too much

Assemble the Steak Queso Rice Bowl:

Scoop hot fluffed rice into serving bowls Top with generous slices of steak Drizzle warm queso sauce over both let some run down into the rice

Garnish and Serve:

Top the bowls with fresh cilantro diced tomatoes jalapeño slices or a dollop of sour cream Serve right away for the best taste and texture

The real magic in this dish is the queso I always make extra because my kids ask for a second drizzle every time. I remember one night we turned this recipe into a build your own bowl party and everyone had fun picking their own toppings.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days For top results keep steak rice and queso separated and mix only when reheating Gently rewarm queso in a saucepan with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess Steak and rice can heat together in the microwave

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of steak swap in grilled chicken or roasted veggies For a vegetarian bowl use black beans or pan seared mushroom strips Any cheese that melts well will work in queso Regular cheddar or pepper jack are delicious swaps You can also use short grain rice or brown rice for more texture and fiber

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy as a standalone meal for lunch or dinner Pile on avocado chunks or extra hot sauce for more kick Use the components as a filling for burritos or let everyone build tacos for taco night Serve sides of grilled vegetables or a tangy slaw for a full table

This steak queso rice bowl is one of those dishes you want to make again and again because it always brings people together around the table and everyone can make it their own.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ What type of steak is best for this bowl?

Sirloin, flank, and ribeye are all excellent choices for tenderness and rich flavor in the steak strips.

→ Can I use another kind of rice?

Jasmine or basmati provide aromatic bases, but short-grain, brown, or plain white rice work as well.

→ How can I make the queso sauce spicy?

Add extra cayenne pepper or diced jalapeño while preparing the queso for a noticeable kick.

→ What cheeses melt best for creamy sauce?

White cheddar and Monterey Jack ensure a smooth, velvety sauce, though cheddar or pepper jack are tasty options too.

→ Which toppings work well for extra flavor?

Fresh cilantro, jalapeño slices, diced tomato, and sour cream add color, spice, and creaminess to every bowl.

→ Can the dish be prepared ahead of time?

Yes; cook steak, rice, and sauce ahead, store separately, and reheat gently before assembling to maintain best texture.