Savory Steak Queso Rice Bowl

Indulge in the irresistible Tex-Mex flavors of Steak & Queso Rice — a dish that marries tender sirloin with perfectly seasoned rice, all united by a creamy white queso drizzle. Picture this: juicy steak mingling with fragrant rice, each bite a symphony of savory goodness that’s sure to delight your taste buds.

Crafted during lockdown to bring the essence of our favorite restaurant meal home, Steak & Queso Rice has since become a beloved Friday night tradition in our household. It’s the kind of dish that strikes the perfect balance between comforting familiarity and impressive flair, making any evening feel special without the need to venture out.

As you savor each mouthful of this memorable meal, reminiscing over past dinner adventures, remember that Steak & Queso Rice isn’t just a recipe — it’s a story waiting to be shared. Whether you’re recreating a cherished memory or creating new ones, this dish is a delicious reminder that sometimes the best moments are found right at the dining table.

Quick Benefits

• Elevates home cooking with Tex-Mex flair
• Versatile – allows for ingredient substitutions and customization
• Easy to prepare and store for busy weeknights
• Interactive serving style makes it great for entertaining

Why You’ll Love This Savory Steak Queso Rice Bowl Recipe

• Memorable Tex-Mex Flavors: This recipe combines tender sirloin steak, perfectly seasoned rice, and creamy white queso for a memorable Tex-Mex inspired meal that is both comforting and impressive.
• Restaurant-Quality Meal at Home: Recreate your favorite restaurant meal in the comfort of your own home with this recipe, perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
• Personal Touch: Create lasting memories with loved ones – the story behind this dish adds a personal touch that makes it even more special.
• Versatile and Customizable: Swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it easy to adapt the recipe to your preferences or dietary needs.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Store leftovers easily and reheat components separately to preserve textures and flavors, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
• Interactive Serving Style: Serve alongside tortillas, pico de gallo, and avocado for an impressive spread, allowing guests to customize their plates to suit their tastes.
• Comforting and Flavorful: The mix of rich queso, tender steak, and flavorful rice in this dish creates a comforting and satisfying meal that will undoubtedly become a favorite.

Ingredients for Savory Steak Queso Rice Bowl

Main Ingredients

• 8 ounces tomato sauce
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 cup long grain white rice
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon dried cilantro
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 small onion, finely chopped

Protein and Condiments

• Pancho’s White Queso, sufficient for drizzling
• Montreal steak spice, to taste
• Flour tortillas, for serving
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnishing
• 1 pound sirloin steak, sliced

Pro Tips for Savory Steak Queso Rice Bowl

To ensure the rice is perfectly cooked and flavorful, stir it continuously while toasting it over medium heat. This method helps achieve even browning and prevents the rice from burning, resulting in a delicious base for the dish.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cuts of meat to suit your taste preferences. Substitute sirloin steak with flank steak, ribeye, or even a tender cut like filet mignon for varied textures and flavors in your Steak & Queso Rice.

If you can’t find Pancho’s White Queso, feel free to substitute it with any white queso or cheese sauce of your choice. This allows you to personalize the dish with your favorite cheese dip while maintaining the creamy and rich element that ties the meal together.

How to Make Savory Steak Queso Rice Bowl

Step 1: Rice Preparation

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add rice and stir constantly until lightly browned. Then, add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent on medium-low heat.

Step 2: Cooking the Rice

Add chicken broth and tomato sauce to the skillet with the rice. Stir to combine. Bring to a boil and cook for 2 minutes. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Step 3: Steak Preparation

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Add sliced sirloin steak and season with Montreal steak spice. Cook steak, stirring occasionally, until desired doneness. Remove cooked steak from skillet.

Step 4: Finalizing the Rice

Simmer the rice for 20 minutes, then let it sit covered off the heat for an additional 10 minutes.

Step 5: Assembly and Service

Fluff the rice with a fork and transfer it to a serving platter. Top with cooked steak, drizzle with Pancho’s White Queso, sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro, and serve with warm flour tortillas.

Storage Tips

After preparing the Steak & Queso Rice, store any leftovers in separate airtight containers. The rice can be kept fresh for up to 4 days, while the steak is best consumed within 2-3 days. To maintain the dish’s textures, reheat the components separately. Add a splash of water to the rice before reheating to restore moisture and warm the steak briefly to prevent overcooking. Warm the queso before adding it to the reheated components for the best results.

This versatile recipe allows for various customizations based on your preferences and ingredient availability. You can swap the sirloin steak for other cuts like skirt steak, ribeye, or even chicken thighs, adjusting the cooking times accordingly. If you don’t have Montreal steak spice, create your own blend using common pantry spices. Vegetarians can substitute steak with portobello mushrooms for a meatless version that maintains the dish’s textural appeal.

For an impressive meal spread, serve the Steak & Queso Rice alongside warm flour tortillas, fresh pico de gallo, and sliced avocado. Consider adding a side of black beans or a crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. When entertaining, present the components in separate serving dishes to allow guests to customize their plates. This interactive serving style enhances the dining experience and accommodates different dietary preferences.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a different protein option, consider substituting the sirloin steak with flank steak, ribeye, or even a tender cut like filet mignon. These variations will bring a different texture and flavor profile to the dish, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or what you have available.

If you can’t find Pancho’s White Queso, feel free to use any white queso or cheese sauce of your choice. Look for a creamy cheese dip that complements the flavors of the dish and provides that satisfyingly cheesy finish. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands or homemade queso recipes to find the perfect match for your steak and rice.

To make a vegetarian version of this dish, swap out the steak for grilled vegetables or your favorite plant-based protein. Additionally, using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth will keep the dish entirely meat-free while maintaining the rich flavors and textures that make it so enjoyable. This adaptation allows you to enjoy a delicious meatless meal without compromising on taste or satisfaction.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative twist on serving this Steak & Queso Rice dish, try turning it into Tex-Mex style burrito bowls. Start with a base of the flavorful rice and top it with slices of the tender sirloin steak. Drizzle generous amounts of the creamy white queso over the top and finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro. Serve with warm flour tortillas on the side for a fun and interactive meal that allows everyone to customize their own burrito bowls with their favorite toppings.

Another creative way to enjoy this dish is by transforming it into a Tex-Mex inspired steak and queso rice skillet. Simply layer the seasoned rice at the bottom of a cast-iron skillet, arrange the cooked sirloin steak slices on top, and drizzle with a generous amount of the creamy white queso. Place the skillet under the broiler for a few minutes to melt the cheese and create a golden crust on top. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve straight from the skillet for a cozy and visually appealing presentation that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones.

FAQs for Savory Steak Queso Rice Bowl

Can I substitute sirloin steak with other cuts of beef?

Yes, you can substitute sirloin steak with flank steak, ribeye, or even a tender cut like filet mignon for variations.

What is Pancho’s White Queso and can I use a different type of cheese sauce?

Pancho’s White Queso is a creamy cheese dip. You can substitute it with any white queso or cheese sauce of your choice.

Can I prepare the rice and steak in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the rice and steak in advance. Store them separately, then reheat and assemble with queso and garnishes when ready to serve.

How can I customize the spice level of the dish?

You can customize the spice level by adjusting the Montreal steak spice or adding chili powder or hot sauce to the rice or steak according to your preference.

Conclusion

As you embark on creating your own version of Steak & Queso Rice, remember that the heart of this dish lies in the fusion of flavors and the joy of a shared meal. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this dish your own by incorporating your favorite ingredients or making adaptations to suit your preferences. Embrace the process of cooking and enjoy the aromas that will fill your kitchen as you bring together the elements of tender steak, seasoned rice, and creamy queso. Let the memories you create around this dish be as delightful as the flavors themselves.

So, gather your loved ones, set the table with care, and savor each bite of this delicious Steak & Queso Rice. May the shared moments and the delightful flavors of this dish bring you closer together and create lasting memories around your table.