This creamy queso rice paired with tender steak strips is a warm hug on a plate! The cheesy sauce makes each bite super comforting, and the steak adds a hearty touch.
Cooking this dish feels like a fun fiesta! I love serving it with some fresh veggies on the side. Trust me, you’ll want to make it again once you taste that cheesy goodness! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak or Sirloin: Both are great choices for this dish. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using chicken breast or even tofu for a vegetarian twist!
White Cheese: Monterey Jack is my go-to for its smooth meltability. However, you can substitute with white Cheddar or even pepper Jack for an extra kick.
Cream Cheese: This gives the rice a nice creaminess. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using a dairy-free cream cheese instead!
Chicken Broth: Using broth adds depth of flavor. For a vegetarian version, simply swap in vegetable broth or water.
How Can I Make Sure My Rice Comes Out Perfectly Creamy?
Getting that creamy texture in your rice is all about cooking it the right way. Here’s how you can achieve it:
- Start with a medium pot and melt the butter before adding onions and garlic — this builds a flavorful base!
- Once you add the rice, make sure to coat it well with the butter for best results.
- After pouring in the broth, let it come to a gentle boil then cover and reduce the heat immediately. Low heat is key for even cooking!
- Once done, stir in the cheeses and cream until everything is melted and smooth for that perfect creamy finish.
Trust me; these tips will help you nail this creamy queso rice every time!
Creamy Queso Rice with Tender Steak Strips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Steak Strips:
- 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced into strips
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Queso Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded white cheese (Monterey Jack or white Cheddar)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for mild heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 20-25 minutes to cook. It’s a total of around 30-35 minutes to make! Quick enough for a weeknight dinner and fancy enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice:
In a medium pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onions and sauté until they’re nice and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, throw in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Cook the Rice:
Stir in the rice, ensuring each grain is coated with the butter and onion mixture. This step adds a great flavor! Now, pour in the chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
3. Cook the Steak Strips:
While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic, then toss in the steak strips along with the smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the steak evenly. Cook the steak strips for about 3-4 minutes per side (or until browned and tender) and then remove them from heat to keep warm.
4. Make It Creamy:
Once the rice is done cooking, stir in the cream cheese, shredded cheese, and milk (or heavy cream) until everything melts and becomes smooth. This is the magic part where it all comes together!
5. Add Flavor:
If you’re feeling adventurous, mix in the chopped jalapeño and cilantro for extra flavor and color. Adjust the salt to taste and stir until combined.
6. Serve It Up:
Serve your creamy queso rice warm and topped with the tender steak strips. For a lovely finishing touch, feel free to garnish with extra cilantro or sliced green onions. Enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite!
Dig in and savor the creamy goodness that’s perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time! You’ll need to adjust the liquid amount to about 2.5 cups and cook it for around 40-45 minutes, or until tender. Just ensure to check on it occasionally to avoid drying out!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you want to turn up the heat, consider using a spicier cheese like pepper Jack or adding extra jalapeños! You can also incorporate diced serrano or habanero peppers for an intense kick or sprinkle some red pepper flakes while cooking the steak.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Absolutely! You can cook the rice and steak strips ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave. Avoid mixing them until you’re ready to serve to keep the texture just right!
What Should I Serve with Creamy Queso Rice?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, guacamole, or sautéed vegetables for added color and nutrition. For a complete meal, you can serve it with tortilla chips or warm tortillas for scooping!
