This creamy queso rice is a warm and comforting dish, topped with tender steak strips for a delightful twist. The cheesy goodness wraps around every grain, making it extra tasty!
Honestly, who can resist a bowl full of cheesy rice and juicy steak? It’s perfect for busy days when you want something cozy without spending hours in the kitchen!
I love how quick this meal comes together. Just cook the rice, add the queso, and sear the steak—it feels like a treat any night of the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Long-Grain White Rice: This type of rice cooks up fluffy, perfect for absorbing flavors. You can use brown rice for a healthier option, but remember it may need more cooking time and liquid.
Chicken Broth: I love chicken broth for its rich flavor, but feel free to swap in vegetable broth for a vegetarian take, or even water if you’re in a pinch.
Queso Cheese: Shredded queso fresco has a mild flavor, but Monterey Jack works great too. If you can’t find these, try mozzarella or another mild cheese. Just keep it creamy!
Steak: Sirloin and flank steak are my favorites here, but you can replace them with chicken, shrimp, or even tofu if you want a different protein or a meatless option.
How Do You Make Rice Extra Creamy?
To achieve the creamy texture, you’ll want to stir in the queso cheese and heavy cream at the end once the rice is cooked. This is the magic moment where everything comes together!
- Make sure your cheese is shredded for even melting.
- Keep the heat low when stirring in the cheese and cream—this prevents it from clumping.
- Don’t be shy about adjusting the cream! If you want it extra creamy, add more!
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 chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded queso cheese (such as queso fresco or a mild white cheese blend)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Steak Strips:
- 1 lb steak (such as sirloin or flank), cut into thin strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro or chopped green onions (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy and delicious dish takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes getting your ingredients ready and cooking the steak, while the rice will cook for about 15-18 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the Rice:
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch, making the rice less sticky and fluffier when cooked.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, which should take about 3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant—this adds great flavor!
3. Cook the Rice:
Add the rinsed rice to the onion and garlic mixture. Stir it well to coat the rice in the butter and onion flavors and cook for 1-2 minutes while stirring frequently. Now, pour in the chicken broth, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 15-18 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
4. Season and Cook the Steak:
While the rice is cooking, it’s time to prepare the steak. Season the steak strips with salt, pepper, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder if you want a little kick. In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil, then add the seasoned steak strips. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they reach your desired doneness. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
5. Mix in the Creamy Ingredients:
Once the rice is cooked, remove it from heat and stir in the shredded queso and heavy cream. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and the mixture reaches a creamy consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve It Up:
Now it’s time to dish it out! Serve the creamy queso rice in bowls or on plates and top it generously with the tender steak strips. For a lovely finish, garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions if you like.
7. Enjoy!
Sit back, relax, and enjoy this comforting and cheesy Creamy Queso Rice with Tender Steak Strips. It’s a dish that brings warmth and a smile to any meal!
FAQ for Creamy Queso Rice with Tender Steak Strips
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that brown rice will require more cooking time and liquid—about 25-30 minutes of simmering with 2 1/2 cups of liquid should do the trick.
What Can I Substitute for Queso Cheese?
If you can’t find queso cheese, feel free to use Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even cheddar for a different but still delicious flavor. Make sure it’s a cheese that melts well for that creamy texture!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to keep it creamy as you heat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the steak with your choice of protein like sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or black beans, and keep all the other ingredients the same. Enjoy a delicious vegetarian twist!
