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Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips – Bold, Cheesy, and Comfort-Filled

If you’re craving a meal that’s rich, satisfying, and packed with bold flavor, Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips is the ultimate comfort dish. This recipe brings together tender, perfectly seasoned sirloin steak and ultra-creamy queso-style rice infused with spices, cheese, and a gentle kick of heat. Every bite delivers warmth, richness, and balance—exactly what comfort food should be. What makes this dish special is the layered flavor experience. The rice absorbs savory beef broth and spices, then gets transformed with cream cheese, heavy cream, sour cream, and melty cheeses into a luxurious, velvety base. On top, juicy steak strips add hearty protein and deep savory notes, while fresh cilantro and jalapeño brighten everything up. Perfect for cozy dinners, impressive weeknight meals, or when you want something indulgent and unforgettable, this queso rice with steak is a true crowd-pleaser.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Prepare and measure all ingredients before starting.
For the Steak
  • 1 lb sirloin steak cut into thin strips
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon salt
For the Queso Rice
  • 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 teaspoons powdered garlic
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
Creamy Queso Base
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon sour cream
  • ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese shredded
  • 1 cup white cheddar cheese shredded
Fresh Add-Ins & Garnish
  • ½ cup tomatoes diced
  • 1 jalapeño finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped
Ingredient Notes:
  • Sirloin steak is tender and flavorful without being overly fatty.
  • White cheddar and Monterey Jack create a smooth bold queso-style sauce.
  • Jalapeño adds heat without overpowering the dish.

Equipment

  • To prepare this creamy queso rice with steak, you’ll need:
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Medium saucepan with lid
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Whisk
  • Tip: A heavy-bottomed pan helps prevent the cheese sauce from sticking or burning.

Method
 

  1. Follow these steps carefully for perfect creamy queso rice with juicy steak strips.
Step 1: Cook the Rice
  1. Rinse the rice under cold water.
  2. In a saucepan, combine rice, beef broth, powdered garlic, salt, and cayenne pepper.
  3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
  4. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  5. Remove from heat and keep covered.
Step 2: Season the Steak
  1. In a bowl, toss steak strips with:
  2. Salt
  3. Black pepper
  4. Paprika
  5. Smoked paprika
  6. Cumin
Step 3: Cook the Steak
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add steak strips in a single layer.
  3. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side, until browned and juicy.
  4. Remove steak from skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Queso Sauce
  1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
  2. Add butter and let it melt.
  3. Stir in cream cheese until softened.
  4. Add heavy cream and sour cream, whisking until smooth.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
  1. Gradually stir in Monterey Jack and white cheddar cheese.
  2. Stir constantly until melted and creamy.
  3. Do not boil.
Step 6: Combine with Rice
  1. Add cooked rice to the skillet with the queso sauce.
  2. Stir gently until rice is fully coated and creamy.
Step 7: Finish the Dish
  1. Fold in diced tomatoes and chopped jalapeño.
  2. Return steak strips to the skillet.
  3. Gently stir and cook for 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
  1. Remove from heat.
  2. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro.
  3. Serve hot.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat
Add a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce
Tip: Avoid high heat to keep the queso smooth.
🥄 Variations
Customize your creamy queso rice with steak:
Spicier Version
Add extra jalapeño or cayenne pepper
Chicken Option
Replace steak with grilled chicken strips
Extra Cheesy
Add more cheddar or Monterey Jack
Veggie Boost
Add bell peppers or corn
Low-Carb Twist
Replace rice with cauliflower rice
❓ 10 FAQs
What cut of steak works best?
Sirloin is ideal for tenderness and flavor.
Is this dish very spicy?
It’s mildly spicy and easy to adjust.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but reheat gently.
Why rinse the rice?
It removes excess starch for better texture.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Cream gives best richness, milk will thin the sauce.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, reduce jalapeño for mild flavor.
Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is not recommended due to cheese.
What cheese melts best?
Monterey Jack and white cheddar melt smoothly.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger skillet.
What pairs well with this dish?
A fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
🏁 Conclusion
This creamy queso rice with juicy steak strips is the definition of indulgent comfort food. With tender steak, rich cheese sauce, and perfectly seasoned rice, it delivers bold flavor and satisfying texture in every bite.
Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or simply treating yourself, this dish brings warmth, richness, and excitement to the table. Once you try it, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your comfort-food rotation.