What cheese is good with steak?

When it comes to pairing cheese with steak, white queso is hands down one of the best choices—especially in dishes like steak and queso rice . Its smooth texture and mild spice melt beautifully over hot meat, locking in flavor without overpowering it. Other great options include Monterey Jack, mozzarella, provolone, or a sharp cheddar if you’re going for stronger flavor. But for creamy, melt-in-your-mouth comfort? Queso wins every time. It's why it’s become a staple in easy steak and queso rice recipes everywhere.

What pairs with steak and rice?

Steak and rice are a strong duo on their own, but they really shine when paired with the right extras. Think of sautéed peppers, black beans, roasted vegetables, or even a zesty salsa to balance out the richness. Want to go lighter? A citrusy side salad adds contrast. For something indulgent, warm flour tortillas let you scoop everything up or turn it into a burrito. These additions work great when you’re serving steak and queso rice as a full dinner or stretching leftovers into something new the next day.

Do rice and steak go together?

They sure do—and not just in steak and queso rice . Across many cultures, rice and steak are paired to create balanced, filling meals. The firm texture and mild flavor of rice act as the perfect base to soak up the juices and seasoning from well-cooked steak. In this dish, the seasoned sirloin adds boldness, while the rice provides comfort and structure. It’s why variations like steak and rice recipes with gravy or steak cheese and rice Mexican-style meals are always in demand. When done right, it’s the perfect bite.

Is queso good with rice?

Absolutely. Queso and rice are a natural match, especially when you're working with seasoned or tomato-based rice like the one in our steak and queso rice recipe. The creaminess of queso blends into the rice, coating each grain with richness and flavor. Whether you use homemade white queso or a store-bought version, it acts like a savory, cheesy sauce that enhances the dish without overwhelming it. In fact, that balance of smooth cheese and seasoned rice is part of what makes this dish so popular among lovers of simple steak and rice recipes .

Steak and Queso Rice – The Best Cheesy Recipe (2025)

Steak and Queso Rice: Irresistibly Flavorful and Easy Weeknight Favorite

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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Diet: Halal

Description

This savory one-pan steak and tomato rice is packed with bold spices, juicy sirloin strips, creamy white queso, and fresh cilantro. Perfect for a hearty dinner or flavorful meal prep! #steakricebowl #quesorice

Ingredients

Units Scale

2 cups Basmati Rice
2 1/2 cups Chicken Broth
1 cube Chicken Bouillon
1 can (14 oz) Crushed Tomatoes (or diced tomatoes/tomato sauce)
2 cloves Garlic, minced
1 small Onion, finely chopped (optional)
1 teaspoon Paprika
1/2 teaspoon Cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons Olive Oil
1 pound Sirloin Steak, cut into thin strips
2 tablespoons Butter
Montreal steak seasoning, to taste
White Queso, for topping
Fresh Cilantro, for garnish
Flour Tortillas, optional for serving

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Instructions

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion (if using) and sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
Add the rinsed rice and toast for about 2 minutes, stirring continuously to coat it in the oil and flavors.
Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Crumble in the chicken bouillon cube. Add paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Once cooked, remove from heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Meanwhile, season the sirloin steak strips generously with Montreal steak seasoning.
In a separate skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Sear steak strips for 4–5 minutes per side or until cooked to desired doneness.
Fluff the rice and top with cooked steak. Drizzle generously with white queso.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with warm flour tortillas if desired.

Notes

You can substitute tomato sauce or diced tomatoes based on your preferred texture and flavor intensity.
Letting the rice rest covered after cooking helps it stay fluffy and prevents mushiness.
Use a meat thermometer to check steak doneness if unsure (135°F for medium-rare).
Make it spicier by adding chili powder or cayenne with the seasonings.
Great for meal prep—store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 610
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 820mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 95mg

Find it online: https://www.cookingflash.com/steak-and-queso-rice/

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