This dish is a warm hug in a bowl! Creamy queso rice topped with juicy steak strips makes for a filling meal that everyone will love. It’s cheesy, hearty, and oh-so-satisfying!
I can’t resist sneaking in extra cheese on top! It’s the kind of meal that brings family together, and trust me, it’s a perfect choice for cozy nights in. Give it a try, and enjoy every bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Long-grain white rice: This is the base of your creamy dish. You can swap it with brown rice for a nuttier flavor, but remember it needs more cooking time and liquid.
Queso cheese blend: I love using Monterey Jack and white cheddar, but feel free to mix it up with Cheddar or Pepper Jack for a little heat!
Steak: Flank steak or sirloin works great, but you can also use chicken or shrimp if you want a different protein. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Cream cheese: You want this for creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can replace it with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese, but the flavor will differ a bit.
How Do I Make the Queso Rice Creamy and Delicious?
Getting that perfect creamy texture is key here! Start by cooking your rice correctly; using broth instead of water adds extra flavor.
- When the rice is warm, mix in the queso blend and cream cheese gradually. This helps it melt evenly without clumping.
- Add milk or cream as needed to reach your desired creaminess—there’s no need to rush, just stir until smooth!
- Season with garlic and onion powder, plus salt and pepper for that delicious flavor boost.
How Can I Cook the Steak Just Right?
Cooking steak can be tricky, but it’s all about high heat and timing. Here’s how to get it perfect:
- Let the steak marinate for at least 10 minutes! This adds tons of flavor.
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot—this helps achieve a nice sear.
- Cook the steak in batches if needed. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of searing.
- Keep an eye on the doneness: about 2-3 minutes per side works well for tender and juicy strips.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a tasty dish that’s sure to impress! Enjoy your creamy queso rice with tender steak strips!
How to Make Creamy Queso Rice with Tender Steak Strips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Queso Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup shredded queso cheese blend (such as Monterey Jack and white cheddar)
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Steak:
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced into strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing and marinating the steak, and about 15-20 minutes cooking the rice and assembling everything. The result is a quick but satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
In a medium saucepan, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice and butter, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for about 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed. Once done, remove it from heat and set aside.
2. Make the Queso Rice:
While the rice is still warm, stir in the shredded queso cheese, cream cheese, milk or cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until the cheeses melt and combine well, creating a creamy texture. Keep the queso rice warm.
3. Prepare the Steak:
In a mixing bowl, toss the thinly sliced steak strips with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder (if you’re feeling adventurous), and salt. Let them marinate for about 10-15 minutes to soak in all the flavors.
4. Cook the Steak:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated steak strips to the hot skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; if needed, cook the steak in batches. Once cooked, remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes.
5. Assemble the Dish:
In serving bowls, spoon generous amounts of the creamy queso rice. Top each serving with the tender steak strips. If you have any juices left from the steak, feel free to drizzle that over the top for extra flavor!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finish off your dish by garnishing with chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh touch. Serve with lime wedges on the side if you’d like a burst of tangy flavor.
7. Enjoy:
Serve the dish immediately and dig into your comforting, creamy queso rice with tender steak strips! It’s sure to be a hit.
FAQ for Creamy Queso Rice with Tender Steak Strips
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! If you choose brown rice, just keep in mind that it requires more cooking time and additional liquid. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually about 30-40 minutes, before combining it with the queso ingredients.
What If I Can’t Find Queso Cheese Blend?
No worries! You can substitute it with a combination of shredded Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. For a spicier kick, consider using Pepper Jack cheese instead of just Monterey Jack.
Can I Marinate the Steak Overnight?
Yes, marinating the steak overnight can enhance its flavor! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container or Ziplock bag in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking for even doneness.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The queso rice might thicken as it cools, so you can add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to bring back its creaminess. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
