This Creamy Queso Rice is a warm and cheesy dish, mixed with tender steak strips for extra yum! It’s like a hug in a bowl, perfect for a cozy dinner. 😋
Making it is a breeze! Just cook the rice, stir in the gooey queso, and top it with juicy steak. I love how it’s satisfying and hearty—great for sharing with friends or enjoying on my own! 🥩🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: I prefer long-grain white rice for its fluffy texture. You can substitute it with brown rice for a healthier option, but adjust the cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook.
Cheese: Monterey Jack is my go-to for its meltiness. If you’re looking for a spicier touch, try pepper jack. For a different flavor, mix in some cheddar or even a creamy queso dip!
Steak: Flank steak is lean and flavorful, but you can also use sirloin or even chicken if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking times for different meats.
Cream Cheese: This ingredient adds richness and creaminess. If avoiding dairy, try cashew cream or a vegan cream cheese alternative.
How Do I Make the Queso Sauce Creamy and Delicious?
Crafting a delicious queso sauce is key to this dish! Here’s how to achieve that creamy texture:
- Start by sautéing onions until soft; this builds a flavor base. Don’t rush it!
- Wait until the cream cheese is fully melted before adding the Monterey Jack. This ensures a smooth blend.
- Adjust the milk gradually. Start with the recommended amount, then add more for your desired creaminess.
Remember to stir well to keep everything melted together!
How to Make Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
For the Queso Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or a Mexican queso blend)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup milk (more if needed for creaminess)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Steak:
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced into strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for steak)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare. Cooking the rice takes around 15-20 minutes, and while it simmers, you can whip up the queso sauce and cook the steak. It’s a quick meal that’s packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Start by bringing the water or chicken broth to a boil in a medium pot. Once boiling, add the long-grain white rice along with a pinch of salt. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid. After it’s cooked, remove it from heat and let it sit, still covered, for a few more minutes.
2. Prepare the Queso Sauce:
While the rice is cooking, grab a skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, letting the wonderful aroma fill your kitchen.
3. Make it Creamy:
Now, reduce the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until it’s melted and creamy. Gradually add the shredded Monterey Jack cheese, mixing until everything is smooth and delicious. Pour in the milk and continue to stir until you achieve your desired creamy consistency. Don’t forget to season with a little salt and pepper!
4. Combine Rice and Queso:
Once the queso is ready, take your cooked rice and gently fold it into the cheese sauce. Mix until all the rice is coated evenly. Keep the heat low to keep it warm while you finish the steak.
5. Cook the Steak Strips:
In another bowl, season the thinly sliced steak with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak strips in a single layer and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked to your liking. Remove them from the heat.
6. Serve It Up:
Time to enjoy your meal! Scoop the creamy queso rice onto a plate, and top it with the juicy steak strips. For a fresh touch, garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions. Serve immediately and dig in!
Enjoy your comforting, cheesy Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips! It’s sure to warm your heart and fill your belly!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can definitely use brown rice for a healthier option! Just remember that brown rice takes longer to cook—approximately 40-45 minutes. Adjust the liquid accordingly, using about 2.5 cups of broth or water for 1 cup of brown rice.
What If I Don’t Have Monterey Jack Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute it with other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a spicier kick. A Mexican queso blend works wonderfully too for that creamy texture and flavor!
Can I Make the Queso Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the queso sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heat distribution. Enjoy it the next day as a delicious lunch!
