Introduction
Steak and Queso Rice is a perfect harmony of flavors and textures, bringing a taste of Tex-Mex right to your kitchen. The rich, savory notes of steak combined with creamy queso create a dish that satisfies both hunger and cravings for something indulgent.
Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or impressing guests, this recipe offers simplicity without sacrificing flavor. Let’s dive into the ingredients that make up this delightful dish and the steps to prepare it seamlessly at home.
Ingredients
- 1 lb skirt steak or flank steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup shredded queso cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Directions & Preparation
- Begin by seasoning the steak with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub the spices evenly over the meat.
- Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned steak and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your preferred level of doneness. Remove from the skillet and let it rest.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the rice and toast it for 2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes with their juices. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- While the rice is cooking, slice the rested steak against the grain into thin strips.
- Once the rice is done, remove it from the heat and stir in the queso cheese until melted and creamy.
- To serve, spoon the queso rice onto plates, top with the sliced steak, and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick.

FAQs
What kind of steak is best for this recipe?
Skirt steak or flank steak are ideal due to their tenderness and flavor.
How can I make the rice even creamier?
You can add a bit more queso cheese or a splash of cream at the end.
What should I do if my rice is too sticky?
If your rice is too sticky, ensure you’re using the right water-to-rice ratio when cooking.
Can I use brown rice instead?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time and water accordingly, as brown rice typically takes longer.
What if I don’t have diced tomatoes with green chilies?
You can substitute with regular diced tomatoes and add a pinch of jalapeño or hot pepper to taste.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Certainly! Bell peppers or corn can make a delicious addition; sauté them along with the rice.
What should I do if the queso is too thick?
If the queso is too thick, you can stir in a little warm chicken broth to loosen it up.
Conclusion
Making Steak and Queso Rice at home is a rewarding experience that brings together flavors everyone will love. With each bite, you will appreciate the blend of spices and creamy queso.
This dish not only satisfies your hunger but also leaves room for creativity, allowing you to customize it to your liking. Enjoy your culinary adventure and share the deliciousness with friends and family!
Recipe Card
Crispy Meat Pies Filled with Flaky Goodness
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter cold and cubed
- 6 –8 tablespoons ice water
- 1 pound ground meat beef, lamb, or chicken
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the pastry dough.
- Cook the filling mixture.
- Roll out the dough.
- Assemble the pies.
- Prepare for baking.
- Bake the pies.
- Cool and serve.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
