Smoky Cajun Steak with Cheesy Garlic Butter Rice
Ingredients:
1 lb ribeye or sirloin steak, cut into strips
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp butter
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 1/4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup Velveeta, cubed
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
3 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Optional: 1 tsp lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes
Directions:
Cook the Rice: In a saucepan over medium heat, bring beef broth to a boil. Stir in the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
Make the Cheesy Sauce: Once rice is tender, stir in heavy cream, cheddar cheese, Velveeta cubes, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder.
Stir constantly over low heat until cheese is melted and rice is thick and creamy. Cover to keep warm.
Cook the Steak: While rice cooks, heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Toss steak strips with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Sear steak in the hot skillet for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your liking. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 3 tbsp butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in fresh parsley and, if desired, a splash of lemon juice or red pepper flakes for a spicy citrus kick.
Assemble and Serve: Spoon a generous serving of cheesy rice onto each plate. Top with the smoky Cajun steak strips and drizzle garlic butter sauce over everything.
Garnish with a little extra parsley and serve.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4 | Calories: ~780 per serving