My favorite method for how to cook Steak & Queso Rice. Steak is surprisingly easy to prepare and cook in the pan to your desired degree of doneness 100%, and just as delicious as ever!
Tender steak bites into medium sized pieces to perfection and topped with a rice for a quick, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing meal.

You know that one dish that shouldn’t work but somehow totally does and this is exactly it because it’s a mix of steak and queso and rice which might sound like a random bundle of cravings but honestly that’s how it all began since it was a Friday night and the fridge was nearly empty except for some leftover steak I had completely forgotten about and I was just about to give in and order takeout again.
the lightbulb went off because I’m not saying I invented something fancy but the moment that melty queso hit the skillet everything changed and even my husband who is super picky and proudly calls himself a steak purist went back for seconds and then even thirds which says a lot so there was definitely no shame.
Have you ever tossed a few ingredients together while expecting something average and instead ended up with a total flavor bomb because that’s exactly the vibe here since it’s gooey and savory and a little smoky and just plain comforting like a big cheesy hug packed with protein.
And if your queso spills over and forms a crispy edge in the pan don’t worry because that’s actually the best part and you’ve just got to trust me on that one.
Ingredients :
- 1 lb steak sirloin or flank, thinly sliced
- 2 cups cooked white rice jasmine or basmati works best
- 1 cup queso cheese sauce store-bought or homemade
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional :
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 cup black beans
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
How to Make Steak & Queso Rice
Step 1
The first thing you need to do is cook the rice according to the package instructions. Fluff it with a fork and set aside. Now, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced steak and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.

Step 2
Sear the steak for 2-4 minutes on each side until well browned and cooked through. Remove from heat. Then, in a saucepan, heat the queso fresco until warm and smooth. You can add a splash of milk if you prefer it thinner.
Step 3
Let’s build your dish: Start with a layer of rice, then top with the cooked steak, pour the warm queso over it, and sprinkle with green onions, cilantro, or black beans, if desired. Finally, serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy flavor!


Kitchen Equipment Needed :
To make these yummy Steak & Queso Rice, you’ll only need a few basic kitchen tools
- Medium skillet or frying pan
- Saucepan for queso
- Rice cooker or pot (to cook rice)
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Bowls for serving
Tips for the Best Steak & Queso Rice
Want a crunch? Top with crushed tortilla chips or crispy onions.
Use brown rice or cauliflower rice if you want a healthier twist.
Marinate the steak for 30 minutes in lime juice, olive oil, and garlic for extra flavor.

What to Eat with Steak & Queso Rice ??
Honestly, I love eating this Steak & Queso Rice alone because it’s so filling. Sometimes I crave enjoying it with a delicious salad, and I usually have a delicious dessert and a cold fruit juice or a cold drink afterward. Even my kids have started asking me for it.
FAQ’S
Can I use leftover steak for this recipe ?
Yes! Leftover steak works great. Just slice it thinly and reheat it gently so it doesn’t get tough.
How do I make homemade queso ?
Melt shredded cheddar cheese with milk or cream, then add cornstarch and optional ingredients like green chilies or jalapeños. Stir until smooth.
Can I make this dish spicy ?
Yes! Add hot sauce, chili flakes, or sliced jalapeños to turn up the heat.
What if I don’t eat beef ?
No problem! You can swap the steak with chicken, turkey, shrimp, or even tofu.
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Steak & Queso Rice
Course: Main CourseCuisine: American, Tex-MexDifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes25
minutes580
kcal40
minutesA quick and cheesy steak and rice dish topped with warm queso and your favorite toppings perfect for a family-friendly dinner that’s full of flavor!
Ingredients
1 lb steak sirloin or flank, thinly sliced
2 cups cooked white rice jasmine or basmati works best
1 cup queso cheese sauce store-bought or homemade
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1/2 cup black beans
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Directions
- The first thing you need to do is cook the rice according to the package instructions. Fluff it with a fork and set aside. Now, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced steak and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Sear the steak for 2-4 minutes on each side until well browned and cooked through. Remove from heat. Then, in a saucepan, heat the queso fresco until warm and smooth. You can add a splash of milk if you prefer it thinner.
- Let's build your dish: Start with a layer of rice, then top with the cooked steak, pour the warm queso over it, and sprinkle with green onions, cilantro, or black beans, if desired. Finally, serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy flavor!
Notes
- Slice steak thinly against the grain for tender, easy-to-chew pieces.
- Use freshly cooked rice or reheat leftover rice with a splash of water to fluff it up.
- Don’t overcook the steak—2 to 4 minutes per side is usually enough for thin slices.
- Add a splash of milk if your queso thickens too much when reheating.



