This creamy queso rice is a warm hug for your tummy, topped with tender steak strips that add a delicious twist. It’s cheesy, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying!
I love how quick and easy this dish is to whip up. Plus, who can resist that melted cheese goodness? It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or even a cozy lunch!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: Long-grain white rice is great for this dish, but you can use brown rice if you want something heartier. Just remember, brown rice will need a bit more cooking time.
Steak: Flank steak or sirloin are perfect choices for tenderness. You could also use chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian option, seasoned similarly!
Cheese: Shredded Monterey Jack or white cheddar give a lovely melt. If you’re in a pinch, pre-shredded cheese works well too, but fresh cheese melts better. A vegan cheese can work for a dairy-free version.
Spices: Cumin and smoked paprika add depth. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika or chili powder can step in, just tweak the amount to your taste!
How Do I Get My Steak Just Right?
Cooking steak strips to perfection is simple if you follow a few steps. First, it’s all about the cut and thickness. Thin strips cook quickly, so keep an eye on them.
- Heat your skillet to medium-high heat before adding oil to ensure you get a nice sear.
- Cook the strips for about 2-3 minutes on each side; they should be nicely browned. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming.
- Let the steak rest for a minute after cooking; it helps keep the juices in.
With these tips, you’ll have tender, flavorful steak strips to enjoy on your creamy queso rice dish!
Creamy Queso Rice with Tender Steak Strips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
For the Steak:
- 1/2 pound flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced into strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For the Creamy Queso Sauce:
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack, white cheddar, or a queso blend)
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons butter
For the Vegetables:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional, for a little heat)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take about 30-40 minutes total. You’ll spend around 15-18 minutes cooking the rice and about 10-15 minutes preparing the rest. It’s a quick and tasty dinner solution!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the Rice:
Start by rinsing the long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove excess starch and keeps your rice from getting gummy. Drain well after rinsing!
2. Cook the Rice:
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and water or chicken broth. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork once done.
3. Prepare the Steak:
While the rice is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your tender steak strips with salt, pepper, cumin, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. This will give them great flavor!
4. Cook the Steak:
Add the seasoned steak strips to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Once cooked, remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
5. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, reduce your heat to medium, then add the butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped jalapeño (if using). Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
6. Make the Queso Sauce:
Lower the heat and add the cream cheese and milk or heavy cream to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese has melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is the base of your delicious queso sauce!
7. Add the Cheese:
Stir in the shredded cheese until it has melted and the queso sauce is well combined. You’ll want it nice and creamy, ready to coat the rice!
8. Combine the Rice and Queso:
Gently fold the cooked rice into the queso sauce in the skillet, making sure that each grain of rice is coated in the creamy cheese sauce. Everything should look luscious and inviting!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the creamy queso rice and top each serving with the tender steak strips. Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions for a fresh pop of color, and serve with lime wedges on the side if you like a little tangy zest!
Enjoy this comforting, cheesy rice dish enhanced with flavorful steak strips for a satisfying meal! It’s a delicious treat for the whole family.
FAQ for Creamy Queso Rice with Tender Steak Strips
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice for a heartier option! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as brown rice typically takes about 40-45 minutes to cook. Use 2.5 cups of water or broth instead of 2 cups, and check for tenderness at the end of cooking.
What Can I Substitute for the Steak?
If you’re looking for alternatives to steak, boneless chicken breast or thighs work well and can be seasoned similarly. For a vegetarian version, try using chickpeas or grilled vegetables instead. Just sauté them until heated through and nicely browned.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to maintain creaminess.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the queso sauce and cook the steak ahead of time. Simply store them separately in the fridge and combine them with freshly cooked rice when you’re ready to serve. This makes for a quick and easy dinner on busy nights!
