This creamy queso rice is packed with flavor and topped with tender steak strips. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun family meal!
I love how the creamy queso mixes beautifully with the rice. Plus, let’s be real—the steak strips make it feel a bit fancy. Who needs a restaurant when you can whip this up at home? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Long-Grain White Rice: This rice provides a nice texture and absorbs flavors well. If you don’t have it, you can use jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant twist. Just remember to adjust cooking time as needed!
White Cheddar Cheese: It gives the creamy and rich flavor to the dish. If you can’t find it, queso blanco or Monterey Jack cheese works nicely as substitutes. For a sharper taste, try a bit of grated Parmesan.
Flank Steak/Sirloin: I love flank steak for its tenderness and flavor, but sirloin also works well. If you prefer a budget-friendly option, you might choose chicken or tofu, seasoned the same way!
Milk or Cream: For creaminess, use whole milk or heavy cream. You can swap it with half-and-half or even a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk for a lighter version, just be aware that it may alter flavor slightly.
How Do I Ensure My Rice Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking rice can be tricky, but with the right steps, you’ll get it just right! Here’s how:
- First, rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. This helps prevent stickiness.
- Toast the rice briefly after adding it to the onion and garlic. It adds depth to the flavor!
- When you add water or broth, keep the heat high until it boils, then lower it to simmer. No peeking; cover the pot!
- Let it cook undisturbed for 15-18 minutes. Avoid stirring, as this releases steam.
- Once cooked, let it sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. This helps even out moisture!
How to Make Creamy Queso Rice with Tender Steak Strips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Creamy Queso Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water or beef broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese or queso blanco
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Steak Strips:
- 12 oz flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced into strips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or olive oil (for cooking steak)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and approximately 20-25 minutes to cook, for a total of around 35-40 minutes. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s ready in no time!
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 and keeps the rice fluffy. In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat, then add the diced onion. Cook until softened, usually about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Garlic and Toast Rice:
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, stir in the rice and toast it lightly for about 1-2 minutes, which gives it a nice nutty flavor.
3. Cook the Rice:
Add the water or beef broth, season with a pinch of salt, and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it boils, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid too often, as steam is essential for cooking!
4. Prepare the Steak Strips:
While the rice cooks, season the thinly sliced steak with cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper in a bowl. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and add the seasoned steak strips. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned and cooked to your liking. Remove the steak from the skillet and keep it warm.
5. Make the Queso Rice Creamy:
Once the rice is done, stir in the shredded cheese and milk or cream until everything is melted and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
6. Serve It Up:
To serve, place a generous scoop of the creamy queso rice on each plate, then top with the tender steak strips. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley and a squeeze of lime juice if desired. It adds a lovely freshness!
7. Enjoy!
Dig into your rich and comforting Creamy Queso Rice with Tender Steak Strips. This is comfort food at its best!
FAQ for Creamy Queso Rice with Tender Steak Strips
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice! However, keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook. You’ll need to adjust the liquid ratio and cooking time to about 40-45 minutes, so be sure to check it for doneness!
What Can I Substitute for the Steak?
If you prefer a different protein, chicken breast or shrimp are great alternatives! For a vegetarian option, try using grilled vegetables or tofu, seasoned similarly for extra flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave on medium power or warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the creaminess.
Can I Make This Dish Spicy?
Absolutely! You can increase the chili powder or add a diced jalapeño or some cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Adjust the spices to your personal heat preference!
