This Steak and Queso with Rice recipe is the perfect blend of savory, creamy, and satisfying all on one plate. Imagine tender, perfectly seared flank steak paired with fluffy white rice and smothered in luscious queso cheese sauce. It’s a dish that hits all the right notes—comforting, flavorful, and easy enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to impress guests. Whether you’re craving a quick meal or looking to elevate your dinner routine, this recipe delivers bold flavors with minimal fuss.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
- Rich, creamy queso cheese sauce: It adds a velvety texture that complements the juicy steak beautifully.
- Perfectly seasoned flank steak: Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper bring out the natural flavors of the meat without overpowering it.
- Simple yet hearty: With just a handful of ingredients, this dish comes together quickly but feels indulgent.
- Versatile serving: Enjoy it as a complete meal or pair it with a fresh salad or steamed veggies for a balanced dinner.
- Fresh cilantro garnish: Adds a pop of color and a subtle herbal brightness to every bite.
What Goes In
- 1 lb flank steak – thinly sliced against the grain for tenderness
- 1 cup cooked white rice – fluffy and ready to soak up all the flavors
- 1 cup queso cheese sauce – creamy and cheesy, the star of the show
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – for searing the steak to perfection
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – adds a warm, savory depth
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – enhances the meat’s natural flavors
- Salt and pepper to taste – essential seasonings for balance
- Fresh cilantro for garnish – brightens and freshens the dish
Gear Up: What to Grab
- Large skillet or cast iron pan – for searing the steak evenly
- Medium saucepan – to heat the queso cheese sauce if needed
- Sharp knife – for slicing the flank steak thinly
- Cutting board – a safe surface to prep your meat
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep the recipe precise and easy
- Spatula or tongs – for flipping and handling the steak
Cook Steak and Queso with Rice Like This
Step 1: Prep the Flank Steak
Start by patting your flank steak dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear. Then, slice the steak thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness once cooked. Season the slices evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
Place your skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Allow the oil to heat until shimmering but not smoking. This ensures the steak cooks quickly and develops a flavorful crust.
Step 3: Sear the Steak
Add the steak strips to the hot pan in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Let the steak sear undisturbed for about 2 minutes, then flip and cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes until browned but still juicy. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Warm the Queso Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, gently warm your queso cheese sauce over low heat. Stir occasionally to keep it smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk or water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Place the cooked white rice on your serving plates, top with the seared steak slices, and generously drizzle the warm queso cheese sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions
- Flank steak: Try skirt steak or sirloin for similar texture and flavor.
- White rice: Brown rice or cauliflower rice can be used for a healthier twist.
- Queso cheese sauce: Substitute with a homemade cheese sauce or a dairy-free alternative if preferred.
- Olive oil: Avocado oil or grape seed oil work well for high-heat cooking.
- Fresh cilantro: Parsley or green onions can be used if you’re not a fan of cilantro.
Don’t Do This
- Don’t slice the steak before cooking without going against the grain—it can make your meat tough.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing; this causes the steak to steam rather than brown.
- Don’t overheat your queso cheese sauce; high heat can cause it to separate.
- Resist the urge to skip seasoning the steak; it’s key to building the dish’s flavor.
Cooling, Storing & Rewarming
Allow leftovers to cool to room temperature before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Steak and Queso with Rice will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the queso sauce from clumping. You can also microwave it covered, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
FAQ
Can I use another cut of steak?
Absolutely! Skirt steak, sirloin, or even ribeye can be great alternatives. Just adjust cooking times based on thickness to maintain tenderness.
Is it okay to use leftover cooked rice?
Yes! Leftover rice works perfectly and can even be preferable since it’s drier and less likely to clump together when reheated.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the steak seasoning or serving with pickled jalapeños on the side for a spicy kick.
What if I don’t have queso cheese sauce?
You can make a quick cheese sauce using shredded cheese, milk, and a little flour to thicken, or opt for a store-bought alternative that melts smoothly.
Cook This Next
- Garlic Butter Steak And Mushroom Skillet With Rice – for another hearty steak and rice combo with rich mushroom flavors.
- Cheesy Chicken And Rice Stuffed Peppers – a comforting, cheesy meal that’s perfect for meal prep.
- Sticky Honey Soy Salmon Rice Bowls – a sweet and savory seafood option that pairs beautifully with rice.
Next Steps
Ready to dive into this Steak and Queso with Rice recipe? Gather your ingredients and kitchen tools, and start cooking up a meal that’s sure to become a favorite. Don’t forget to experiment with your favorite toppings or side dishes to make it uniquely yours. Happy cooking!
This Steak and Queso with Rice is sure to satisfy your cravings with its juicy steak, creamy cheese, and fluffy rice. It’s a simple yet indulgent dish perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
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Steak and Queso with Rice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by patting your flank steak dry with paper towels. Slice the steak thinly against the grain for tenderness. Season evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place your skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Add the steak strips in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes, then flip and cook another 1-2 minutes until browned but juicy. Remove from pan and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, gently warm the queso cheese sauce over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or water if too thick.
- Place cooked rice on serving plates, top with steak slices, and drizzle with warm queso sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper to the steak seasoning or serve with pickled jalapeños.
- Substitute flank steak with skirt steak or sirloin for similar results.
- Leftover rice works great and reheats well in a skillet or microwave.
