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Steak Queso Rice Bowl

Steak Queso Rice Bowl

The Steak Queso Rice Bowl is a hearty and comforting dish combining tender, juicy steak with a creamy queso cheese sauce over fluffy rice, accented by fresh vegetables and zesty lime juice. Quick to prepare and fully customizable, this flavorful bowl is perfect for busy weeknights or indulgent meals that satisfy cravings for warmth and richness.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb skirt or flank steak

Grains

  • 1 cup long-grain or jasmine rice

Queso Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
  • 1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based for dairy-free)
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese blend
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder

Seasonings

  • 1 tsp salt (divided)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder

Fresh Vegetables & Garnishes

  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup diced onions
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Optional: sliced green onions, diced avocado, jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice: Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water to remove excess starch and prevent clumping. Cook the rice according to package instructions until fluffy. Set aside.
  2. Season and Cook the Steak: Generously season the steak with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, aiming for medium-rare to medium doneness based on thickness. Remove from heat and let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain for tenderness.
  3. Make the Queso Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add 1 1/2 cups of milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens. Stir in shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese blend along with garlic powder and chili powder. Continue stirring until smooth and creamy. Keep warm until serving.
  4. Assemble the Bowl: Place cooked rice at the bottom of each bowl. Top with sliced steak and generously drizzle warm queso cheese sauce over the top. Scatter diced tomatoes, onions, and chopped cilantro. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice to add brightness and zest.

Notes

  • Rest your steak after cooking to lock in juices and enhance tenderness.
  • Use sharp cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a queso sauce with extra flavor depth.
  • Adjust the amount of milk in the queso sauce to control sauce thickness.
  • Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the steak and queso for a smoky flavor boost.
  • Cook rice and queso sauce ahead of time to speed up assembly when ready to eat.

Nutrition

Keywords: steak, queso, rice bowl, Tex-Mex, easy recipe, comfort food, quick dinner, cheesy sauce, weeknight meal