If you’re on the hunt for indulgent yet easy dinner ideas, look no further than this Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips. It’s a one-pan wonder that delivers bold Tex-Mex flavor, comforting creaminess, and satisfying protein—all in under an hour.
This dish will quickly become a family favorite, perfect for weeknights when you need something hearty yet special. Whether you’re cooking for your partner or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this creamy and savory recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Steak Strips:
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1 lb (450g) sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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½ teaspoon cumin
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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Juice of ½ lime (optional for added brightness)
For the Creamy Queso Rice:
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1 tablespoon butter
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
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2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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½ cup shredded Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese
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1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chiles (e.g., Rotel), drained
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¼ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish
Required Kitchen Tools
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Large skillet or sauté pan (with lid)
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Medium bowl for marinating steak
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Wooden spoon or spatula
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Cutting board and sharp knife
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Steak
In a medium bowl, toss the steak strips with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and lime juice (if using). Let marinate while preparing the rice (at least 15 minutes).
Step 2: Cook the Rice Base
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Stir in the uncooked rice and toast for 1–2 minutes, allowing the grains to absorb the flavor. Then add the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
Step 3: Make it Creamy and Cheesy
Once the rice is cooked, stir in the drained diced tomatoes with green chiles, heavy cream, chili powder (if using), cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and keep warm while you cook the steak.
Step 4: Sear the Steak Strips
In a separate skillet (or the same one if the rice is transferred to another dish), heat a drizzle of oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated steak strips in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming.
Step 5: Assemble and Garnish
Serve the creamy queso rice in bowls or on plates, topped generously with juicy steak strips. Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions for a fresh finish.
Helpful Tips for Making or Serving the dinner ideas Recipe
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Use quality steak: Sirloin, flank, or even ribeye all work well. Just be sure to slice thinly across the grain for the most tender result.
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Spice it up: Want more heat? Add diced jalapeños to the rice or use Pepper Jack cheese for an extra kick.
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Make it a bowl: Add black beans, grilled corn, or avocado slices for a Tex-Mex rice bowl.
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Time-saving tip: Use pre-cooked rice to speed things up. Simply heat with the cream and cheeses to create the queso base.
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Add crunch: Top with crushed tortilla chips or crispy onions for extra texture.
Approximate Nutritional Value (Per Serving, makes 4 servings) dinner ideas
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Calories: 620
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Protein: 33g
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Fat: 38g
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Carbohydrates: 38g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugar: 4g
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Sodium: 890mg
Note: Nutrition may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Conclusion
When it comes to dinner ideas that are both comforting and elevated, this Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips checks every box. It’s creamy, cheesy, full of bold flavor, and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or even casual entertaining, this dish turns simple ingredients into something unforgettable.