Tender, seasoned steak strips served over rich and creamy queso-style rice for a bold, comforting, and satisfying meal that’s easy enough for weeknights.
Author:Mayaa
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:25 minutes
Total Time:40 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Tex-Mex
Diet:Halal
Ingredients
For the steak:
1 1/2 pounds sirloin or flank steak, sliced into strips
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
0.5 teaspoon paprika
0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
0.5 teaspoon salt
0.25 teaspoon black pepper
For the queso rice:
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon butter
0.5 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
0.5 cup Monterey Jack cheese
0.25 teaspoon cumin
0.25 teaspoon salt
0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Optional toppings:
Chopped cilantro
Diced tomatoes
Sliced jalapeños
Instructions
Cook the rice in chicken broth according to package instructions until tender and fluffy.
While the rice cooks, toss the steak strips with olive oil, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak strips for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove and let rest.
Once the rice is cooked, stir in butter, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, cumin, salt, and black pepper until melted and creamy.
Spoon the creamy queso rice into bowls and top with the steak strips.
Garnish with cilantro, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
Do not overcook the steak to keep it tender and juicy.
Add sautéed bell peppers and onions for a fajita-style variation.
Use brown rice or cilantro-lime rice for a different flavor profile.
Reheat rice with a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess.
Adjust spice level by adding cayenne or extra jalapeños.