Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips: Easy & Flavorful

Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips is the answer if you’re tired of bland dinners that leave you uninspired.
Hi, I’m Sam, and I’m so glad you’re here! At dishfoody.com, I create feel-good recipes that make cooking joyful and eating memorable. This dish combines rich, cheesy rice with perfectly cooked, tender steak strips — a cozy, comforting dinner that’s quick enough for busy weeknights yet impressive enough to serve guests.
In this post, I’ll share why this recipe works, how to choose the best steak, step-by-step tips, creative flavor twists, serving ideas, and FAQs.

Why This Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips Recipe Works

  • Uses affordable, easy-to-find cuts of beef
  • Steak is ready in 15 minutes for maximum tenderness
  • Perfect for weeknight dinners or a weekend feast

Choosing the Right Steak for Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips

Best Cuts for This Recipe

Flank steak or sirloin strips — both cook quickly and stay juicy.

Buying Tips

Look for beef that’s bright red with minimal connective tissue. Ask your butcher to slice into thin strips if desired.

Substitutions

Swap chicken breast strips or portobello mushrooms for a lighter version.

Ingredients & Prep for Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips

Meat Prep Essentials

Trim excess fat, pat steak dry, and slice thinly against the grain.

Marinades/Rubs

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Pinch of salt and pepper
    (Marinate for at least 15 minutes)

Pantry Staples

  • 1 1/2 cups uncooked rice
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 tbsp butter
Creamy queso rice with juicy steak strips

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips

Pre-Cooking Prep for Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips

Bring steak to room temperature. Prepare rice according to package directions.

Cooking Method for Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips

Heat skillet on medium-high. Sear steak strips for ~2 minutes per side until browned. Set aside.

Doneness Check for Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips

Internal steak temperature should reach 145°F for medium-rare.

Resting for Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips

Let steak strips rest 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices.

Pro Tips for Perfect Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips

Avoiding Dry Steak

Don’t overcrowd the pan and use high heat to sear quickly.

Tool Recommendations

Use a cast-iron skillet for the perfect sear and even heat.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Flavor Variations for Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips

VariationHow to Make It
Spicy TwistAdd diced jalapeños to the queso rice
Keto-FriendlySwap rice for cauliflower rice
Global FlavorsAdd cumin and cilantro for Tex-Mex vibe

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips

Serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad
Pair with sparkling water or iced tea
Perfect for family dinners, date nights, or meal prep lunches

FAQs about Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips

Can I use frozen steak?
Yes — thaw completely before cooking for best results.

How do I fix tough steak?
Slice thinner and marinate longer for more tenderness.

Is this recipe safe for kids?
Absolutely — it’s wholesome and family-friendly.

Conclusion

Fire up your skillet and make this creamy, cheesy, steak-packed dinner tonight! Join thousands of home cooks who love this recipe — and check out our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake: Juicy, Crispy, and Irresistibl next!

Print

Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips: Easy & Flavorful

Creamy queso rice with juicy steak strips cheesy, comforting, and easy! A flavorful dinner perfect for weeknights or family meals.

  • Author: ssam
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  •     1 lb flank or sirloin steak, thinly sliced,
  •     1 tbsp olive oil,
  •     1 tsp garlic powder,
  •     1/2 tsp smoked paprika,
  •     Salt and pepper to taste,
  •     1 1/2 cups uncooked rice,
  •     2 cups shredded cheddar cheese,
  •     1/2 cup milk,
  •     1 tbsp butter

Instructions

  • Trim and marinate steak with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for 15 minutes.
  • Cook rice according to package directions. Stir in butter, milk, and cheese to make queso rice.
  • Heat skillet over medium-high and sear steak strips 2 minutes per side. Let rest for 5 minutes.
  • Serve steak over creamy queso rice and enjoy!

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 servings
  • Calories: 520 kcal
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 620 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Carbohydrates: 48 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

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