Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips

© Original recipe by Golden Whisk Co. ©

Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips 🍚🥩🧀

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful meal that combines tender steak, cheesy goodness, and perfectly cooked rice, then this steak queso rice recipe is your new favorite. This dish is a delicious blend of creamy, cheesy sauces with juicy meat, making it an ideal comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at your next gathering, this recipe offers a perfect balance of richness and texture — satisfying all your savory cravings.

2. Ingredients for Creating the Perfect Creamy Queso Rice and Juicy Steak Strips

• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
• 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, sliced into strips
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips

Preparing the Rice

Cook the rice according to package instructions until fluffy. For added flavor, cook the rice in beef broth or add a pinch of salt to the water. Once cooked, set aside.

Searing the Steak Strips

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the sliced steak with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cumin. Sear the steak strips for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned and juicy. Remove from the skillet and keep warm.

Creating the Creamy Queso Sauce

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combining Everything

Add the cooked rice to the queso sauce, stirring well to combine. Return the steak strips to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the cheesy sauce. Allow everything to heat through for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the steak remains juicy and tender.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Creamy Queso Rice and Juicy Steak

If you have leftovers, transfer the dish to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. This creamy, cheesy rice and meat combo can be stored for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short bursts or reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.

5. Serving Suggestions

This steak queso rice pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables. For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top before serving. You can also serve it with warm tortillas or as a filling for burritos. For a complete meal, check out this easy garlic Parmesan chicken skewers recipe for a protein-packed addition.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about Steak Queso Rice

Can I substitute the steak with other meats?

Absolutely! Ground beef, chicken breast, or even shrimp work wonderfully in this dish, adding different textures and flavors while keeping it hearty and satisfying.

What are suitable dairy-free alternatives?

You can use coconut cream or dairy-free cheese options along with plant-based proteins like grilled tofu or tempeh to make this recipe dairy-free and vegan-friendly.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

Overall, this steak queso rice recipe takes approximately 30-40 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy weeknight dinner.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rice and steak separately and combine them with the cheese sauce just before serving. Reheat gently to preserve the juices in the steak.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — Perfect for reheating leftovers or cooking steak quickly and evenly, enhancing your kitchen efficiency.
• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — This durable cookware set helps you cook your rice and steak effortlessly without sticking or burning.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer — Ideal for grilling steak indoors and ensuring juicy, flavorful meat for your dish.
• KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer — Useful for preparing various components if you want to extend your cooking skills beyond this recipe.

8. Final Tips for the Best Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips

• Use high-quality cheese for the creamiest sauce and rich flavor.
• Always let the steak rest after cooking to keep it juicy.
• Add fresh herbs or hot sauce for an extra flavor boost.
• Adjust the cheese and seasoning to suit your personal taste preferences.

9. Conclusion

This steak queso rice recipe is a deliciously hearty and flavorful meal that combines the best of cheesy comfort with juicy meat. Its creamy texture and savory flavors make it a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can easily create this irresistible dish at home. For more inspiring recipes, explore our collection of one-pan creamy pasta dishes and other quick dinner ideas. Enjoy cooking and indulging in this cheesy, meaty delight!

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