Steak Queso Rice Skillet

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What I love about this recipe is how quick and easy it is to make, yet it feels indulgent with all the cheesy goodness. The steak is perfectly seasoned and seared, while the rice cooks in a flavorful beef broth and salsa combination. The real magic happens when the cheddar cheese and queso dip melt into the rice, creating a creamy, cheesy base that perfectly complements the steak. It’s a dish that’s full of bold flavors, and I get to make it all in one skillet — making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients

• 1 lb flank or sirloin steak, thinly sliced

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1/2 cup salsa (mild or medium)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup prepared queso dip (store-bought or homemade)

• 1/4 cup chopped green onions

• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. I begin by seasoning the steak slices with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin.

2. In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium-high heat. I sear the steak until it’s browned and just cooked through, about 4–5 minutes, then remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

3. In the same skillet, I add minced garlic and uncooked rice. I toast the rice for 1–2 minutes until it becomes fragrant.

4. I stir in beef broth and salsa, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. I cover the skillet and let it simmer for 15–18 minutes, until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.

5. Once the rice is ready, I stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and queso dip, mixing until the cheese melts and the rice becomes creamy.

6. I return the steak to the skillet, toss everything together, and top with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

• Servings: 4 servings

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: I can easily make this dish vegetarian by swapping the steak for black beans or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.

• Add More Heat: If I want to spice it up, I can add jalapeños to the rice or stir in a bit of hot sauce to the queso mixture.

• Cheese Variations: I can swap the cheddar for a different cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for an extra creamy and flavorful dish.

• Substitute Salsa: If I want a chunkier texture, I can use pico de gallo instead of salsa for a fresher take on the dish.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water if necessary to keep the rice from drying out. I can also microwave individual portions for a quick reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes! Flank steak and sirloin are great options, but I can also use ribeye, skirt steak, or even ground beef for a different texture and flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, I can prepare the rice mixture and store it in the fridge. When ready to eat, I just reheat it and add the seared steak and cheese mixture.

Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Definitely! I can add extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or even a chopped jalapeño to the steak for an added kick of spice.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

I can use brown rice, but I will need to adjust the cooking time and amount of liquid. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook, so I may need to simmer it for 35–40 minutes instead of 15–18 minutes.

What can I serve this with?

This dish is filling on its own, but I like to serve it with a side of crispy tortilla chips, guacamole, or a simple salad to round out the meal.

Conclusion

This Steak Queso Rice Skillet is the perfect combination of bold flavors, cheesy goodness, and satisfying texture. The juicy steak, creamy queso rice, and zesty salsa make it an irresistible dinner option that’s sure to become a new favorite. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s an ideal meal for any busy weeknight or casual gathering.