This Creamy Queso Rice is a fun and cheesy dish that features fluffy rice mixed with creamy queso and juicy steak strips. It’s comforting and oh-so-indulgent!
I mean, who can resist cheesy goodness? The steak adds a nice touch of protein, making it a perfect meal. I love to sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a pop of color and flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: Long-grain white rice is ideal for this dish, giving a nice fluffy texture. However, you can substitute with jasmine or basmati rice for a different aroma. Just be mindful of the cooking times!
Steak: Flank or sirloin steak works great here. If you’re looking for alternatives, chicken strips or grilled shrimp can make for tasty substitutions that are also quick to cook.
Queso Cheese: Monterey Jack is my favorite for its meltiness, but feel free to use a Mexican blend or even provolone. For a lighter option, try reduced-fat cheese, which still melts well!
Heavy Cream: If heavy cream is not available, half-and-half is a suitable substitute. You can also use sour cream for a tangy twist or even a dairy-free cream to fit dietary needs.
Green Chilies: These add a lovely flavor, but you can omit them or swap with diced bell peppers for a milder crunch if you prefer!
How Do I Get My Steak Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking steak strips perfectly can make a big difference! Here’s how to do it right:
- Always start with room-temperature steak to ensure even cooking.
- Season your steak generously with salt and pepper right before cooking. This improves flavor and tenderness.
- Use a hot skillet to get a nice sear. A cast-iron skillet is excellent for this.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches if needed to avoid steaming.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side. A good tip is to be patient; let it sear without moving it around.
- Let the cooked steak rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy!
Following these tips will give you perfectly tender steak strips that complement your creamy queso rice!
How to Make Creamy Queso Rice with Tender Steak Strips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water or beef broth
For the Steak:
- 8 oz steak (flank or sirloin), cut into thin strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For the Creamy Mixture:
- 1 cup shredded queso cheese (Monterey Jack or Mexican cheese blend)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/4 cup diced green chilies (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter (for sautéing)
For Garnishing:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
- Juice of half a lime (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes in total. Expect 15-18 minutes for cooking the rice, with additional 10-15 minutes to prepare the steak and mix everything together. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until it runs clear. Then, in a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or beef broth to a boil. Add the rice and 1/2 teaspoon of salt, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Once done, remove it from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
2. Prepare the Steak:
While the rice is cooking, season the thin steak strips with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if you like), and a touch of olive oil. This will give the steak great flavor and help it cook well!
3. Cook the Steak:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Once hot, add the steak strips in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Remove the steak from the pan and keep it warm, so it doesn’t lose its juices!
4. Make It Creamy:
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to burn the garlic. Next, add the cooked rice along with the heavy cream and shredded queso cheese. Stir gently until the cheese melts and everything is nicely combined. If you want some extra flavor, mix in the diced green chilies at this point!
5. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked steak strips to the skillet and toss everything together gently, making sure the steak is well coated in the creamy queso rice mixture. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Drizzle with lime juice before serving for a fresh finish!
6. Garnish:
Finally, garnish your creamy queso rice with chopped cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting and delicious meal!
FAQ for Creamy Queso Rice with Tender Steak Strips
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes! Just note that brown rice will take longer to cook—about 40-45 minutes. You’ll also need to adjust the water or broth slightly, using about 2.5 cups for 1 cup of brown rice.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’re looking for some heat, consider adding jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for the steak. You can also use spicy queso cheese or add a few dashes of hot sauce while mixing the creamy queso rice!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the rice and steak in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, combine in a skillet with the cream and cheese, reheating gently until warmed through.
What Can I Serve This Dish With?
This creamy queso rice pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for added color and nutrition. If you’re feeling adventurous, top it with some avocado or serve alongside crispy tortilla chips for a fun crunch!
