If you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and downright comforting, this Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips is about to become your new favorite meal. Imagine tender steak seared to perfection, mixed with creamy, melty queso rice infused with spices and bursting with flavor. It’s hearty, it’s cozy, and it’s surprisingly easy to pull together in just 35 minutes.

This dish has become a trending comfort-food staple because it blends Tex-Mex goodness with classic steakhouse satisfaction. One bite and you’ll understand why people are obsessed.

Why This Queso Steak Rice Recipe Deserves a Spot in Your Kitchen

This dish is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy richness and savory steak. It’s a weeknight-friendly recipe that feels like a restaurant-quality treat. The bold spices, soft rice, and silky queso sauce create a mouthwatering combo you’ll keep coming back to.

Ingredients Overview

Protein Essentials

1 lb sirloin steak strips
Sirloin cooks quickly and stays tender, making it ideal for quick meals.

Fresh Produce

2 tbsp fresh cilantro
1 jalapeño, diced
½ cup tomatoes
These add freshness, color, and a bit of heat.

Dry & Pantry Staples

1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
Spices:
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp cayenne
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp cumin

Dairy for the Queso Base

¾ cup heavy cream
½ cup Monterey jack
1 cup white cheddar
2 tbsp cream cheese
1 tbsp sour cream

Creaminess overload — in the best way possible.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1 — Season the Steak

Pat steak strips dry and coat evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, smoked paprika, cayenne, and cumin.

Step 2 — Sear to Perfection

Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the steak strips until browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 3 — Cook the Rice in Flavorful Broth

Add butter to the same pan. Toast the rice for a minute, then pour in beef broth. Cover and cook until fluffy.

Step 4 — Build the Creamy Queso Sauce

Stir in heavy cream, cream cheese, shredded cheeses, tomatoes, and diced jalapeño. Let everything melt into a smooth, silky sauce.

Step 5 — Combine, Stir, and Serve

Fold the steak strips back into the cheesy rice. Add cilantro. Mix well until completely creamy.

Expert Tips to Elevate Your Queso Rice

Choose High-Melting Cheeses

Freshly shredded cheese melts better than packaged.

Adjust Spice Levels

Remove jalapeño seeds for a mild version. Add extra cayenne for a kick.

Don’t Overcook the Rice

A fluffy texture makes the queso coating even better.

Variations and Creative Add-Ins

Veggie-Packed Version

Add bell peppers, corn, or spinach.

Spicy Twist

Mix in chipotle peppers or spicy salsa.

Alternative Proteins

Try chicken, shrimp, or even tofu strips.

Serving Suggestions

Add-Ons

Extra cheese
Fresh lime
More cilantro
Crunchy jalapeños

Pairings

Serve alongside tortilla chips, grilled veggies, or a fresh green salad.

Storing & Reheating the Dish

Refrigeration Tips

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating for Creaminess

Add a splash of broth or cream while reheating to restore the silky texture.

Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips – The Comfort Food You Didn’t Know You Needed

Author: By Cora

Print Recipe

Description

This creamy queso rice with juicy steak strips blends rich cheeses, spices, and tender steak into the ultimate 35-minute comfort meal.

Instructions

1. Season steak strips with spices.

2. Heat olive oil and sear steak until browned; remove.

3. Melt butter and toast rice in the same pan.

4. Add beef broth and cook rice until tender.

5. Stir in heavy cream, cheeses, jalapeño, and tomatoes.

6. Mix until smooth and creamy.

7. Fold steak back into the rice and add cilantro.

8. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting.

Add extra jalapeño or cayenne if you want it spicy.