Steak Queso Rice Bowl

This Steak Queso Rice Bowl delivers a bold, comforting meal that feels straight out of your favorite Tex-Mex restaurant. Tender sirloin, fluffy seasoned rice, and creamy white queso come together for a dinner that’s easy to prepare but packed with flavor. Whether it’s a weeknight or a special occasion, this dish satisfies every craving for something hearty and homey.

I first created this during lockdown while craving my favorite restaurant dish and now we make it almost every Friday night to celebrate the weekend with something comforting but effortless.

Ingredients

• Long grain white rice: Fluffy and light it soaks up flavor while staying separate
• Olive oil and butter: The combination brings both richness and balance for toasting and cooking
• Sirloin steak: Lean and tender it cooks quickly and stays juicy without being expensive
• Montreal steak spice: One blend that delivers layers of savory spice and makes seasoning simple
• Chicken broth: Adds body and depth to the rice that water just cannot provide
• Tomato sauce: Gives the rice its vibrant color slight tang and a rich undertone
• Panchos White Queso: Creamy smooth and indulgent it ties all elements together just like at the restaurant
• Fresh cilantro: Bright herbal and cooling it finishes the dish with a perfect fresh contrast

Step-by-Step Instructions

Toast the Rice:

Heat olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the rice and stir constantly for about three minutes until it becomes lightly golden. This step develops a nutty undertone and helps keep the rice fluffy.

Create the Flavor Base:

Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic to the toasted rice. Keep heat at medium low and cook for about five minutes stirring often until onions soften and garlic releases fragrance without browning. This builds the savory base of the dish.

Develop the Rice Mixture:

Stir in chicken broth and tomato sauce making sure to mix well so every grain is coated. Add salt pepper cumin and dried cilantro if using. Let it boil hard for two minutes which activates flavor absorption.

Perfect the Rice:

Reduce heat to the lowest setting and cover tightly. Simmer undisturbed for twenty minutes so the rice cooks evenly. Once done turn off heat but leave covered for ten more minutes to let steam finish cooking and develop texture.

Cook the Steak:

While rice finishes cooking melt butter in another skillet over medium high heat. Add thinly sliced sirloin in a single layer and season well with Montreal steak spice. Cook for two to three minutes per side until browned and just cooked through. Rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving.

Assemble the Dish:

Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Spoon it onto a platter or plates and layer the cooked steak evenly on top. Warm the queso and drizzle generously. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro to finish and enjoy immediately.

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I’ll never forget the first time I made this with my husband. I grabbed the wrong queso and it was blazing hot. His face turned bright red but he finished every bite with a smile. Now it’s a running joke but also our go to dinner when we want something delicious and easy.

Storing Leftovers

Keep rice and steak in separate containers to maintain texture. Store rice for up to four days and steak for two to three. To reheat rice add a spoonful of water and steam lightly covered. Warm steak briefly in a pan or microwave at low power. Queso should be stored in its own container and gently reheated before serving. This keeps the dish tasting fresh and well balanced.

Make It Your Own

Swap the steak for other proteins like grilled chicken pork or even shrimp. If steak spice is unavailable use a homemade blend of salt garlic powder pepper and paprika. Tomato sauce can be substituted with salsa for extra heat or diced tomatoes for a fresher bite. Vegetarian versions work well with portobello mushrooms or grilled zucchini for great texture and flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside warm tortillas for a build your own taco night. Add a scoop of black beans or fresh avocado for richness and nutrition. A citrus dressed green salad balances the richness of the queso. For parties set up a build your own bar with all components separate so guests can assemble their own bowls or wraps based on preference.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the rice from burning when toasting
Keep it moving constantly and do not walk away. Use medium heat and watch closely for color change.

Can I use a different cut of steak
Yes flank skirt or ribeye all work great just adjust cook time to your liking.

What if I do not have Pancho’s Queso
Any white queso or cheese sauce will work. Choose one with a smooth pourable consistency.

Can I make this in advance
Yes prepare rice and steak ahead then reheat gently and finish with fresh queso before serving.

How spicy is this dish
Mild to moderate depending on the steak spice and queso used. You can increase or decrease heat with hot sauce or chili powder.

Is there a vegetarian option
Swap steak for grilled vegetables and use vegetable broth. Keep the queso or try a plant based version.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of steak?

Yes, flank steak, ribeye, or filet mignon all work well. Just adjust the cooking time based on thickness and preference.

→ What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat rice with a splash of water to prevent drying out. Warm steak separately to avoid overcooking, then combine with fresh queso.

→ Can I substitute the queso with something else?

Yes, any creamy cheese sauce or shredded cheese melted over the dish works. White cheddar or Monterey Jack are great alternatives.

→ Is this dish good for meal prep?

Absolutely. Store the components separately and reheat just before serving. Flavors often deepen after resting overnight.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add hot sauce, diced jalapeños, or chili powder to the rice or steak seasoning for a spicier kick.

→ Is there a vegetarian version?

Swap steak with portobello mushrooms or grilled tofu, and use vegetable broth. It still delivers rich flavor and satisfying texture.