Steak and Cheese Rice

Name: Steak and Cheese Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 450g (1 lb) flank or sirloin steak; 1 tsp paprika; A sprinkle of salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tsp ground cumin; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1½ cups whole milk; A pinch of salt and pepper, to taste; ½ tsp ground cumin; 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded; 2 tbsp butter; 1 tsp chili powder; 2 garlic cloves, chopped finely; 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded; 2 cups broth (or water); A bit of salt, as needed; 1 cup long-grain white rice; Fresh cilantro, chopped, for serving; Wedges of lime, for serving; Slices of avocado, for serving; Cut jalapeños, for serving

Posted on June 29, 2025

Delicious Steak and Cheese Rice served in a bowl with fresh ingredients

recipes

Juicy steak and creamy cheese come together perfectly in this Steak and Cheese Rice recipe. It’s a delightful dish that’s hearty and comforting. With tender strips of seasoned steak, fluffy rice, and a rich cheese sauce, it’s just what you need for a filling meal any night of the week. This combination is not only satisfying but also allows you to customize it with fresh toppings like cilantro, jalapeños, avocado, and lime. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table. What’s more, it’s simple enough for a beginner cook to tackle, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat.

Why Make This Recipe

You should make this Steak and Cheese Rice because it’s a well-rounded meal that satisfies both hunger and taste buds. The savory steak pairs wonderfully with the cheesy sauce, while the rice acts as a perfect base to soak in all the flavors. Plus, it’s an easy recipe, requiring no special skills or equipment. In just a short amount of time, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right at home.

How to Make Steak and Cheese Rice

Ingredients:

450g (1 lb) flank or sirloin steak
1 tsp paprika
A sprinkle of salt and pepper, to your taste
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1½ cups whole milk
A pinch of salt and pepper, to your liking
½ tsp ground cumin
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
2 tbsp butter
1 tsp chili powder
2 garlic cloves, chopped finely
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
2 cups broth (or water if you prefer)
A bit of salt, as needed
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 tsp garlic powder
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Wedges of lime
Slices of avocado
Cut jalapeños

Directions:

Make the queso
Grab the skillet you used for the steak and melt butter over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic, letting it cook until fragrant, about a minute. Stir in the milk, bringing it to a light simmer.
Cook the rice
Wash the rice under cold water to rinse off the extra starch. Heat some olive oil in a pot, then stir in your rice and garlic powder to coat it well. Let the grains toast lightly for a couple of minutes before adding the broth or water. Bring it to a boil, cover the pot, and simmer on low for 18-20 minutes until soft.
Rest and slice the steak
After cooking, put the steak on a board and let it sit for 5-10 minutes so the juices don’t run out when cutting. Slice it into thin strips across the grain to keep it tender.
Prepare the steak
Dry off the steak with paper towels and rub it with a little olive oil. Sprinkle the paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over both sides, pressing it into the meat.
Finish the queso
Slowly stir in the shredded cheeses, adding a handful at a time. Let it melt completely before adding the next. Keep stirring until smooth, then season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
Add the toppings
Toss on fresh cilantro, some jalapeños for heat, avocado slices for creaminess, and lime for a zesty pop. Serve it up hot while the sauce is melty and the steak is warm.
Cook the steak
Heat a large skillet until very hot, then cook your seasoned steak for 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on how thick it is and your preferred doneness.
Put it together
Pile some rice onto each plate, add your steak strips, and drizzle warm, cheesy queso sauce over everything. The flavors blend perfectly, and the rice soaks up all the goodness.

How to Serve Steak and Cheese Rice

Serve Steak and Cheese Rice hot on plates. You can add fresh toppings as desired to personalize each serving. Consider putting out bowls of chopped cilantro, slices of avocado, wedges of lime, and jalapeños so guests can choose their favorites. This gives everyone the chance to create their ideal bite. It makes for a fun and interactive dining experience, and the extra toppings add a burst of flavor and freshness.

How to Store Steak and Cheese Rice

To store leftover Steak and Cheese Rice, allow it to cool completely first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. When ready to eat, you can reheat it in the microwave until warm or on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months, but note that the texture of the cheese sauce may change slightly upon thawing.

Tips to Make Steak and Cheese Rice

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh steak and high-quality cheese to enhance the flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Steak: Keep an eye on the steak while cooking to avoid it becoming tough. Use a meat thermometer for best results if you’re not sure.
Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different kinds of cheeses such as Pepper Jack or gouda for a unique twist on the queso.
Season the Rice Well: Don’t skimp on seasoning the rice with garlic powder or broth for extra flavor.
Customize Your Toppings: Personalizing the toppings allows everyone to enjoy the dish to their liking, so consider adding corn, diced tomatoes, or black beans for added texture.

Variation

For a spicy version, consider adding chipotle peppers to your queso or using spicy cheese blends. You can also replace the steak with chicken or tofu to accommodate different dietary preferences.

Conclusion

Steak and Cheese Rice is a delightful dish that combines savory steak, creamy cheese, and fluffy rice into a satisfying meal. With its easy preparation and endless possibilities for customization, it’s perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Get started on making this hearty dish today and elevate your dinner game! Your taste buds will thank you!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute flank or sirloin steak with chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
How can I make the queso spicier?
Add more chili powder or include diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can cook the steak, rice, and queso in advance and keep them stored separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve alongside Steak and Cheese Rice?
A fresh salad or grilled vegetables make a great side dish to complement the main meal.