Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips – Bold, Comforting & Irresistibly Cheesy

Some dinners just make you stop mid-bite and smile, and this Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips is one of them. Imagine tender slices of seared steak laid over a bed of golden, fluffy rice, all smothered in a velvety homemade queso sauce that melts into every grain. It’s rich, savory, and bursting with flavor—like your favorite restaurant dish but made right at home.

This recipe brings together two of my greatest comfort food loves: creamy cheese sauce and perfectly cooked steak. It’s indulgent enough for a weekend dinner, yet simple enough for busy weeknights. Every bite delivers that magical balance of creamy, spicy, and smoky, making this dish a total Pinterest favorite for steak lovers everywhere!

Why You’ll Love It

• Bold and Flavorful: Juicy steak strips, seasoned rice, and creamy queso make every bite satisfying.
• One-Pan Convenience: Simple prep and easy cleanup—perfect for busy nights.
• Restaurant Quality: Brings that Tex-Mex steakhouse flavor straight to your kitchen.
• Customizable: Swap steak for chicken, shrimp, or roasted veggies.
• Family-Friendly: A comforting meal everyone at the table will love.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Keeps beautifully for leftovers or next-day lunches.

Time Needed

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4 bowls

Ingredients

For the Steak:

• 1 lb steak strips (sirloin, flank, or ribeye)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cumin

For the Flavorful Rice:

• 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Queso Sauce:

• 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
• ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)

Optional Toppings:

• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 jalapeño, sliced
• ½ cup diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon sour cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Rice In a medium saucepan, bring beef broth, butter, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to a gentle boil. Add rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15–18 minutes until tender and fluffy. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
2. Season and Cook the Steak In a bowl, toss steak strips with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and juicy. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
3. Make the Queso Sauce In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream and cream cheese over low heat until smooth. Gradually whisk in cheddar and Monterey Jack until creamy. Stir in garlic powder and cayenne for a touch of spice.
4. Assemble the Dish Divide the rice into bowls. Top with juicy steak strips, then drizzle generously with warm queso sauce. Add cilantro, tomatoes, or jalapeños if desired.
5. Serve and Enjoy Serve hot and enjoy this creamy, cheesy, steak-filled comfort bowl!

Variations to Try

• Chicken Queso Rice: Substitute grilled chicken for steak for a lighter twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or chipotle powder to the queso sauce.
• Veggie Style: Swap steak for sautéed mushrooms and peppers.
• Tex-Mex Bowl: Add black beans, corn, and avocado slices for extra color and flavor.

Tips from Chef Emma

• Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest queso.
• Always let steak rest before slicing to lock in its juices.
• Warm the queso on low heat to prevent curdling.
• Leftovers reheat beautifully in a skillet with a splash of broth.

Nutrition Info per Serving

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 380
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 520mg

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: Can I use pre-cooked steak?
  A: Yes! Simply warm it in a skillet for a few minutes before adding to your rice bowl.
• Q: What’s the best rice for queso bowls?
  A: Jasmine or basmati rice works best for fluffy texture and subtle aroma.
• Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
  A: Absolutely—store the steak, rice, and queso separately, then reheat and assemble when ready.
• Q: How do I make the queso spicier?
  A: Add diced jalapeños, extra cayenne, or a splash of hot sauce to the queso sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips is pure comfort in a bowl—cheesy, hearty, and full of flavor. It’s a meal that feels indulgent yet easy enough for any night of the week. Serve it with fresh lime wedges or a side salad for the ultimate Tex-Mex comfort dinner. Save this recipe to your dinner board so it’s ready the next time you’re craving something creamy and satisfying!

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