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Creamy queso rice topped with flavorful steak for a hearty meal.

Creamy Queso Rice with Juicy Steak Strips

A delightful dish featuring creamy rice, tender steak, and a rich queso drizzle, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Mexican
Servings 4 servings
Calories 650 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Rice

  • 2 cups basmati rice Long grain, aromatic, and fluffy when cooked.
  • 2.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth Infuses the rice with flavor.
  • 1 cube chicken bouillon, crumbled Adds concentrated taste.
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes Adds moisture and vibrant color.
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced Elevates overall taste.
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced Optional; brings warmth and complexity.
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika Adds color and mild sweetness.
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground cumin Adds warmth and nuttiness.
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil For sautéing.
  • Salt and black pepper To taste.

For the Steak

  • 1 pound sirloin steak, sliced into thin strips Juicy and tender centerpiece.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter Enhances flavor and creaminess.
  • Montreal steak seasoning To taste.
  • White queso sauce For drizzling.
  • Fresh cilantro leaves For garnish.
  • Warm flour tortillas (optional) For serving.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a large pot, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. If using, add the diced onion along with the minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, around 2-3 minutes.
  • Stir in the rinsed basmati rice and toast it gently for about 2-3 minutes.
  • Add sweet paprika and ground cumin; cook for another 30 seconds to release the essential oils.
  • Mix in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and crumbled bouillon cube. Bring to a gentle boil, then cover and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for 18-20 minutes.
  • Season steak strips with Montreal seasoning.
  • In another skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium-high heat and sear the steak strips for 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
  • Once the rice has cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Serving

  • Ladle creamy rice into bowls. Top with steak, drizzle with white queso sauce, and garnish with cilantro. Serve with warm tortillas.

Notes

Rinse basmati rice before cooking for fluffiness. Keep ingredients ready to improve the cooking process. Adjust seasoning to personal taste.
Keyword Comfort Food, Creamy Queso Rice, Family Dinner, Quick Meal, Steak Strips