Description
A rich and creamy Garlicky Steak Bites Mac and Cheese that combines tender, flavorful steak bites with a cheesy, garlicky pasta. This dish is the perfect comfort food—savory, indulgent, and packed with bold flavors. The juicy steak is seared to perfection, while the mac and cheese is made extra creamy with a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Whether for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 lb ribeye or sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 12 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Red pepper flakes
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Steak Bites
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the steak cubes in a single layer and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
- Reduce heat to medium, add butter and minced garlic, and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Remove the steak bites from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
- Slowly pour in milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Reduce heat to low and gradually add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and mix until fully coated.
- Gently fold in the steak bites, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Garnish with fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, or extra Parmesan if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness!
Notes
- Steak Choice: Ribeye, sirloin, or strip steak works best for tender bites.
- Cheese Variations: You can swap cheddar for gouda or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
- Make It Spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: ~720 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 125mg