Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips

If you’re looking for a hearty and satisfying meal that brings comfort and bold flavor to the table, this creamy queso rice with steak strips is exactly what you need. Juicy, perfectly seared strips of steak are nestled over a bed of rich and cheesy rice, creating a combination that’s both indulgent and easy to love. The creamy queso sauce infuses every bite of rice with a velvety, savory goodness, making it a standout centerpiece for any meal.

What’s even better is that this dish is easy to make and comes together in a single pan, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy. It’s a restaurant-quality dinner that you can pull off right in your own kitchen without complicated steps or ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or entertaining friends for a casual dinner, this steak and queso rice dish is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

For the Steak Strips:

• 1 pound flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Juice of half a lime (optional, adds brightness and flavor)

For the Creamy Queso Rice:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth or water
• ½ cup milk or heavy cream
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican cheese blend
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro or chopped green onions, for garnish

Instructions

For the Steak Strips:

1. Season the steak: In a bowl, mix the sliced steak with olive oil, garlic powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for 10 to 15 minutes.
2. Cook the steak: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak strips and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until nicely browned and cooked to your liking. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside. For extra flavor, squeeze lime juice over the cooked steak before serving.

For the Creamy Queso Rice:
3. Sauté aromatics: Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
4. Cook the rice: Stir in the rice and toast it for 1 to 2 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a gentle simmer, then cover and cook for 15 to 18 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Add cream and cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the milk or cream, shredded cheese, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the cheese melts and the rice becomes creamy.

To Serve:
6. Plate the creamy queso rice and top it with the cooked steak strips. Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

• Steak choice: Flank or sirloin steak works best for this dish. You can also try skirt steak or ribeye depending on your preference.
• Rice: Long-grain rice gives the best texture, but jasmine or basmati rice are good alternatives.
• Cheese: Sharp cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend adds the most authentic flavor.
• Add some heat: If you like spice, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños.
• Vegetarian option: Replace the steak with sautéed mushrooms or grilled vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Storing leftovers: For best results when reheating, store the steak and rice separately to keep their textures fresh.

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Conclusion

Creamy queso rice paired with tender, flavorful steak strips makes a comforting and delicious meal everyone will love. The cheesy rice adds richness that perfectly complements the juicy, spiced meat, creating a well-rounded dish full of satisfying flavors. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to serve when entertaining guests. Give it a try and enjoy a new favorite that will quickly become a regular at your table.