This Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips is a mouthwatering delight! The warm, cheesy rice pairs perfectly with tender steak, making it a dish everyone will love.
You can’t go wrong with melty cheese and juicy steak, right? I like to add some fresh veggies on top to brighten it up. It’s like a fiesta, and who doesn’t love a good party in a bowl? 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Long-grain white rice: This rice cooks up fluffy and absorbs flavors well. If you prefer, jasmine or basmati rice can be used for a slightly different taste and aroma.
Queso cheese: I love using queso cheese for its melty consistency, but Monterey Jack is a perfect alternative. If you’re looking for a spicy kick, pepper jack cheese can add some heat!
Flank steak or sirloin: I usually opt for flank steak as it’s tender and flavorful, but sirloin works great too. For a lighter option, you can switch to chicken or even sautéed vegetables.
Cream cheese and heavy cream: Cream cheese makes the rice super creamy; if you’re looking to lighten it up, Greek yogurt can work as a lower-fat substitute. You can use half-and-half in place of heavy cream.
How Can I Make Sure My Steak is Juicy and Tender?
Getting perfect steak strips requires a little attention to detail. Here’s how to achieve juicy, flavorful results:
- Make sure to slice the steak against the grain to enhance tenderness.
- Marinate or season the steak well with spices before cooking for better flavor.
- Sear the steak on medium-high heat for just a few minutes on each side. Overcooking can dry it out!
- Allow the steak to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain juices.
These steps will help you create perfectly tender and juicy steak strips every time!
Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Queso Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup shredded queso cheese (or Monterey Jack cheese)
- 1/4 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
For the Juicy Steak Strips:
- 12 oz (about 340g) flank steak or sirloin, sliced into thin strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1/2 lime
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful meal takes about 30-40 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes getting everything ready, and then about 20-30 minutes cooking. Just enough time to whip up a delicious, comforting dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak Strips:
In a bowl, mix together the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the olive oil over the steak strips and toss to coat them well with the spice mixture. Set the seasoned steak aside for a moment so the flavors can soak in.
2. Cook the Rice:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they become fragrant and translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Stir in the rice, making sure each grain gets coated with that buttery mixture.
3. Simmer the Rice:
Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and bring to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is nice and tender and all the liquid has been absorbed. Once done, take the saucepan off the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Make it Creamy:
Now it’s time to fluff things up! Use a fork to gently fluff the rice. Stir in the cream cheese, queso cheese, and heavy cream until everything is beautifully melted and creamy. Give it a taste and add salt and pepper as you like. If you’re using it, this is a great time to fold in the chopped cilantro for a fresh touch!
5. Cook the Steak:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the seasoned steak strips in a single layer. If your skillet isn’t big enough, you might want to cook them in batches. Sear the steak strips for about 2-3 minutes per side until they’re nicely browned and juicy. Once cooked, remove from heat and drizzle with lime juice.
6. Assemble and Serve:
Time to enjoy your creation! Serve the creamy queso rice on plates or in bowls, and top generously with the juicy steak strips. For a finishing touch, feel free to garnish with extra cilantro or some sliced green onions. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!
Thanks for joining me in making this cozy, cheesy dish of Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips! You’re going to love it! 😊
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice usually requires about 40-45 minutes to cook and may need an additional cup of broth or water. Be sure to check for doneness!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the steak with sautéed veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also use black beans or chickpeas for added protein. Just season your vegetables similarly to the steak for a delicious vegetarian option!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or warm on the stove with a splash of broth or water to maintain the creamy texture.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Rice?
Yes, feel free to customize your quesos rice! You can add in cooked corn, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture. Just mix them in when you’re making the rice creamy for a fun twist!
