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A black skillet filled with Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips shows browned Steak pieces over Cheesy Rice with tomatoes and herbs, an easy Weeknight Dinner that looks like Ultimate Comfort Food.

Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips


  • Author: Sarah
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips is the definition of a one-pan wonder, a complete meal that brings savory, cheesy goodness to your table with minimal fuss. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner when you’re craving something truly satisfying.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, cut into strips
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
  • 2 1/2 cups beef broth
  • 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chiles
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar + Monterey Jack)
  • 1/4 cup queso dip or cheese sauce
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak strips in a single layer and sear until browned but still slightly pink. Remove from pan and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add remaining tablespoon of oil. Add diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper. Sauté until softened and onion is translucent.
  3. Stir in uncooked rice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Toast rice for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  4. Add beef broth and diced tomatoes with juices. Stir, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes.
  5. Once rice is tender, turn off heat. Stir in shredded cheese and queso dip until melted and creamy.
  6. Return steak strips to the skillet, nestling into the rice. Cover and let sit for 2–3 minutes to warm through.
  7. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro and serve hot from the skillet.

Notes

To save time, prep the steak and veggies in advance. Adjust spice level to taste. Substitute with chicken or shrimp for variation.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 540
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 750mg
  • Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: queso rice, steak, one-pan dinner, cheesy skillet, weeknight meal