Honey BBQ Steak Rice with Creamy Sauce

Welcome to a delightful culinary experience with our Creamy Honey BBQ Steak Rice recipe! Picture this: tender slices of flank steak bathed in a luscious honey BBQ sauce, nestled on a bed of creamy cheddar rice—all cooked up in a single skillet for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. This dish strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet, making it a hit with both little ones and grown-ups alike.

I discovered this One-Skillet Creamy Honey BBQ Steak Rice on a quest for a comforting yet hassle-free dinner option, and it quickly became a household favorite. The magic unfolds as the honey and BBQ flavors meld seamlessly with the steak drippings, creating a mouthwatering medley that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re looking to elevate a weeknight meal or impress guests with minimal effort, this recipe promises to deliver on both taste and convenience.

Versatile and adaptable, our Creamy Honey BBQ Steak Rice allows for ingredient swaps to suit your preferences—think sirloin strips, chicken breast, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Pair it with a side salad or roasted veggies, and perhaps some warm bread to savor every last drop of the velvety sauce. So, roll up your sleeves, fire up that skillet, and get ready to indulge in a symphony of flavors that will surely have you coming back for seconds!

Quick Benefits

  • Convenient one-skillet meal – minimal cleanup required
  • Versatile protein options – swap steak for chicken or tofu for dietary preferences
  • Delicious leftovers – reheats well and maintains creamy texture
  • Customizable heat level – adjust chili powder or add jalapeños for extra spice

Why You’ll Love This Honey BBQ Steak Rice with Creamy Sauce Recipe

  • Convenient One-Skillet Meal: Perfect for busy nights with minimal cleanup required, making it a great option for weeknight dinners.
  • Combination of Flavors: Juicy steak, creamy cheddar rice, and a sweet smoky barbecue finish create a delicious and satisfying meal.
  • Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults, making it a versatile dish for the whole family to enjoy.
  • Great Leftovers: The dish reheats well and maintains its flavors, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or lunch the next day.
  • Versatile Protein Options: Can be customized with different proteins like chicken or tofu to suit personal preferences or dietary restrictions.
  • Easy Ingredient Substitutions: Offers flexibility with ingredient swaps like jalapeno jack cheese for cheddar and Greek yogurt for heavy cream.
  • Comforting and Cozy: Evokes classic steakhouse flavors in a comforting and convenient weeknight dinner setting.
  • Balanced Meal: Can be paired with a variety of sides like salad, roasted vegetables, or bread to create a well-rounded and satisfying dinner.
  • Restaurant-Quality Taste: Provides a restaurant-quality taste and presentation that’s achievable at home with simple steps.
  • Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the spice level by increasing chili powder or adding jalapeños for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their dishes.

Ingredients for Honey BBQ Steak Rice with Creamy Sauce

Steak and Marinade

  • 450g flank steak, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • 30ml soy sauce
  • 15ml olive oil
  • 15ml Worcestershire sauce
  • Black pepper, to taste

Honey BBQ Sauce

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 30ml honey
  • 15ml apple cider vinegar
  • 15ml Dijon mustard
  • 0.5 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
  • 120ml barbecue sauce

Rice and Creamy Base

  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 15g unsalted butter
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 50g shredded cheddar cheese
  • 180g uncooked white rice
  • 120ml heavy cream
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 420ml low-sodium beef broth
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Pro Tips for Honey BBQ Steak Rice with Creamy Sauce

Pro Tip 1: For maximum flavor, marinate the flank steak for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This will help tenderize the meat and infuse it with delicious savory notes before cooking.

Pro Tip 2: To achieve a creamy and rich texture in the rice, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese gradually, allowing them to melt and blend into the rice mixture. Be sure to adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavors of the dish.

Pro Tip 3: Customize this recipe to suit your preferences by exploring different protein options like sirloin strips, chicken breast, or tofu. Additionally, feel free to experiment with alternative cheeses such as jalapeño jack for a spicy kick, or substitute heavy cream with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter twist. Serve the dish with complementary sides like green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread for a well-rounded meal.

How to Make Honey BBQ Steak Rice with Creamy Sauce

Step 1: Marinate Steak

In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add thinly sliced flank steak and toss to coat. Marinate in the refrigerator for 15–60 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare Honey BBQ Sauce

Combine barbecue sauce, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and optional chili powder in a bowl. Set aside.

Step 3: Sear Steak

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Sear marinated steak in a single layer for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to preferred doneness. Remove steak from skillet and loosely cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 4: Cook Aromatics

Lower the heat to medium. Add butter, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until onion is soft, garlic is fragrant, and browned bits are scraped up for flavor.

Step 5: Toast and Cook Rice

Stir uncooked white rice into the skillet with butter and aromatics. Toast for 1–2 minutes until slightly golden. Pour in beef broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.

Step 6: Add Cream and Cheese

Combine heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese with cooked rice until cheese melts and mixture is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Combine with Steak and Sauce

Add the seared steak back to the skillet along with any juices. Pour in the honey BBQ sauce, stir to combine, and simmer for 2–3 minutes to thicken and meld flavors.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Take the skillet off the heat. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve while hot.

Storage Tips

After enjoying your One-Skillet Creamy Honey BBQ Steak Rice, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to enjoy the dish again, gently reheat it on the stove with a splash of extra broth or cream to revive the sauciness. A quick stir in a nonstick skillet will help bring back the creamy texture perfectly, ensuring that your meal tastes just as delicious as when it was freshly made.

If you are looking to make variations to this dish, feel free to swap flank steak for sirloin strips or chicken breast, or even try a vegetarian version with firm tofu. Substituting heavy cream with plain Greek yogurt can work in a pinch, just remember to add it off the heat to prevent curdling. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, jalapeno jack cheese can provide a nice twist instead of cheddar. This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or warm dinner rolls, offering a variety of complementary flavors and textures to your meal.

The Creamy Honey BBQ Steak Rice recipe is versatile and can be prepared ahead of time, as it can be refrigerated for up to two days. When reheating, remember to gently warm it in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency. For those who prefer a spicier kick, consider increasing the chili powder or adding diced jalapeños during the sautéing process. Whether enjoyed as a standalone one-pan meal or paired with additional side dishes, this comfort food dish brings together classic steakhouse flavors in a convenient and satisfying way.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a different type of meat, sirloin strips or chicken breast can be used instead of flank steak in this recipe. Tofu can also be a great vegetarian alternative by cutting it into cubes and searing until golden.

In place of heavy cream, plain Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute. Remember to add it off the heat to prevent curdling. For a different flavor profile, try using jalapeno jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicy twist.

When it comes to sides, consider serving this dish with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed greens to complement the creamy and smoky flavors of the meal. Additionally, warm dinner rolls or crusty bread can be a nice addition to soak up the delicious sauce.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try plating the Creamy Honey BBQ Steak Rice in individual mini cast-iron skillets or ramekins for a charming and rustic presentation. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Pair this dish with a side of crispy garlic breadsticks or cornbread muffins to soak up every last bit of the creamy sauce.

To elevate the flavors of this dish, consider serving it with a side of tangy pickled red onions or quick-pickled jalapeños for a burst of acidity and heat that complements the sweet and smoky BBQ sauce. You can also top each serving with a dollop of tangy sour cream or a drizzle of zesty lime crema to add a creamy and citrusy contrast to the dish. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful meal with a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the steak and creamy rice.

FAQs for Honey BBQ Steak Rice with Creamy Sauce

Can I use a different cut of meat instead of flank steak?

Yes, sirloin or ribeye work well, although flank steak provides a tender bite and absorbs the marinade nicely.

Can I use a lighter alternative to heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a plant-based alternative for a lighter, dairy-free option, though the sauce will be less rich.

What are some good side dishes to serve with this creamy honey BBQ steak rice?

Fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or steamed greens pair well, balancing the creamy and smoky flavors of the dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate it for up to two days. Gently reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.

Conclusion

Creamy Honey BBQ Steak Rice is a delightful dish that brings together the best of both worlds – tender steak, creamy rice, and a sweet smoky barbecue sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe and make it your own. Experiment with different cuts of meat, cheeses, or even spice levels to suit your taste preferences. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility and ability to adapt to your personal flavor profile.

So, don your apron, fire up the stove, and let the aromas of Creamy Honey BBQ Steak Rice fill your kitchen. One bite of this delicious meal, and you’ll understand why it has become a staple on many dinner tables. Cheers to good food, good company, and many more delightful culinary adventures to come!

Honey BBQ Steak Rice with Creamy Sauce

Honey BBQ Steak Rice with Creamy Sauce

Creamy Honey BBQ Steak Rice – Juicy steak, creamy cheddar rice, and sweet BBQ sauce come together for a comforting one-pan meal bursting with flavor.
Prep Time20 Minutes
Cook Time25 Minutes
Total Time45 Minutes
CuisineAmerican
Skill LevelEasy
Servings4 Servings (One large skillet meal)

Ingredients

Steak and Marinade

  • 450g flank steak, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • 30ml soy sauce
  • 15ml olive oil
  • 15ml Worcestershire sauce
  • Black pepper, to taste

Honey BBQ Sauce

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 30ml honey
  • 15ml apple cider vinegar
  • 15ml Dijon mustard
  • 0.5 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
  • 120ml barbecue sauce

Rice and Creamy Base

  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 15g unsalted butter
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 50g shredded cheddar cheese
  • 180g uncooked white rice
  • 120ml heavy cream
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 420ml low-sodium beef broth
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

  1. Marinate Steak: In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add thinly sliced flank steak and toss to coat. Marinate in the refrigerator for 15–60 minutes.
  2. Prepare Honey BBQ Sauce: Combine barbecue sauce, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and optional chili powder in a bowl. Set aside.
  3. Sear Steak: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Sear marinated steak in a single layer for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to preferred doneness. Remove steak from skillet and loosely cover with foil to keep warm.
  4. Cook Aromatics: Lower the heat to medium. Add butter, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until onion is soft, garlic is fragrant, and browned bits are scraped up for flavor.
  5. Toast and Cook Rice: Stir uncooked white rice into the skillet with butter and aromatics. Toast for 1–2 minutes until slightly golden. Pour in beef broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
  6. Add Cream and Cheese: Combine heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese with cooked rice until cheese melts and mixture is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Combine with Steak and Sauce: Add the seared steak back to the skillet along with any juices. Pour in the honey BBQ sauce, stir to combine, and simmer for 2–3 minutes to thicken and meld flavors.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Take the skillet off the heat. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve while hot.