Before diving into the delicious world of steak mac and cheese, let’s talk about pairings that elevate this dish to new heights. Here are a few ideas that dance harmoniously alongside your favorite cheesy delight, amplifying flavors and making your meal unforgettable.
- Garlic Bread: This is a classic pairing. The crispiness of garlic bread balances out the creamy texture of mac and cheese perfectly. It’s also just a fantastic way to soak up any excess cheesy goodness!
- Steamed Broccoli: Adding a side of vibrant green broccoli not only brightens your plate but also provides a crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the mac and cheese. Plus, you’re sneaking in some veggies!
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a zesty vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the cheese and steak. Opt for a salad loaded with fresh veggies like tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion for a refreshing crunch.
- Wine Pairing: If you’re feeling a bit fancy, consider a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon or a rich Chardonnay. Both wines complement the richness of the cheese and steak nicely.
Now that your taste buds are tingling, let’s dig into the main event: steak mac and cheese!
Picture this: a chilly evening, and you’re craving something warm and comforting. The idea of a big bowl of creamy mac and cheese hits, but wait, let’s elevate it with juicy steak! This dish combines everything we love about two comfort-food classics into one decadent meal. Ever since I stumbled upon this recipe while hunting for cozy winter meals, it has firmly established itself in my kitchen. The combination of beef and cheese works wonders. Trust me; your palate will do a little dance when you taste it.
Let’s take a journey through the world of steak mac and cheese. Not only will I provide a detailed recipe, but I’ll share my experiences and expertise as a registered dietitian and food enthusiast. You’ll learn why this recipe absolutely works and how to make it shine on your dining table.
Why This Recipe Works?
This recipe isn’t just a lucky guess; it holds specific elements that contribute to its deliciousness.
1. Perfect Balance of Flavors: The creamy cheese sauce meets the savory depth of the steak. Together, they create a dish that’s savory and satisfying without being overwhelmingly rich.
2. Texture Reign: Tender pieces of steak mixed in with creamy pasta and cheese offer a wonderful variety in each bite. You’ll enjoy the contrast of textures, from creamy to crunchy, which keeps the dish interesting.
3. Versatile Ingredients: The ingredients are easily accessible and can be adapted to suit your preferences. If you prefer a different type of pasta or cheese, you can swap them out without losing the dish’s integrity.
4. Comfort Food with an Upgrade: Traditional mac and cheese is a classic, but adding steak takes it to a new level of gourmet comfort. It transforms a simple dish into something special that you can serve at a dinner party or whip up on a cozy Wednesday night.
How Does It Taste?
Imagine a creamy, cheesy coating that wraps around every piece of pasta. The sharpness of the cheddar complements the earthy flavors of the steak. Every forkful is rich and indulgent, with hints of garlic bringing everything to life. The mild saltiness plays nicely against the fresh parsley, making every bite an adventure. It’s comforting yet sophisticated; a real crowd-pleaser.
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What Sets This Recipe Apart from Other Steak Mac and Cheese Variations?
While many steak mac and cheese recipes exist, this one emphasizes whole ingredients and layers of flavor without overpowering the main components. Instead of just dumping steak and cheese together, it integrates the flavors through careful preparation. With an experience-led touch from my time in the kitchen, I wanted this dish not just to fill bellies but to create smiles.
The Ingredients
You’ll need these ingredients to get started:
- 16 ounces sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 14 ounces whole wheat elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 4 tablespoons flour (whole wheat optional)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 3/4 cup water or beef/chicken broth (only if needed)
- 2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
Gathering these ingredients forms the cornerstone of this hearty dish.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, toss in the whole wheat elbow macaroni. Cook the pasta until it’s al dente, following the package instructions. Make sure to stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick together. When done, drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Steak
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized pieces of sirloin. Sear until they are browned and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Make sure to season well with salt. Once done, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same skillet, use the leftover drippings (that’s where the flavor is!) and add remaining butter. After it’s melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in flour, whisking constantly for about one minute. This creates a roux that will thicken the sauce.
Step 4: Add Milk
Slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking continuously. This prevents lumps from forming. Cook until the mixture thickens, roughly 4-5 minutes. Be patient. We want a smooth and luscious texture.
Step 5: Incorporate Cheese
After thickening, reduce the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep mixing until all the cheese has melted and is thoroughly combined.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Steak
Now, combine the drained pasta, cooked steak, and chopped parsley with the cheese sauce. Stir them gently until everything is evenly coated in that glorious cheese sauce.
Step 7: If Necessary, Adjust Consistency
If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a splash of water or the broth you set aside to loosen it up just a bit.
Step 8: Serve
Garnish with additional parsley if you like and serve immediately. Enjoy every bite!
Notes
Here are some tips that will help enhance your cooking experience:
- Quality Matters: Use high-quality steak and cheese for the best flavor. It makes a significant difference in this dish.
- Watch the Pasta: Don’t overcook your pasta. Al dente is the way to go since it will continue to cook in the oven if baked.
- Experiment with Cheeses: While sharp cheddar is fantastic, mixing in some mozzarella or gouda could add depth.
- Leftover Steak: This recipe is perfect for using leftover steak from another meal. Just chop it into small pieces and incorporate!
- Feel Free to Customize: Add vegetables like spinach or peas for extra nutrients and color. They pair beautifully with the steak and cheese.
Nutrition Information
Here’s a rough nutrition breakdown per serving:
This mac and cheese packs a good punch with protein and fills you up with a balanced meal. Enjoy it, knowing you’re treating yourself to comforting yet hearty nourishment.
How Do You Store This Steak Mac and Cheese?
If you have leftovers (which may be hard to believe), you can easily store them:
- In the Fridge: Allow it to cool and transfer it to an airtight container. It will last for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Warm it in a saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to three months. Make sure to divide it into portions before freezing.
Sides for Steak Mac and Cheese
Looking for sides to complement this dish? Here are my top three favorites:
- Garlic Green Beans: These are not only easy to make but also add a great crunch. Sautéing fresh green beans with garlic brings out their vibrant flavor.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides the perfect crunch and a bright contrast to the creaminess of mac and cheese, making each bite feel fresh.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Those tiny sprouts get deliciously crispy when roasted. Tossing them with olive oil, salt, and pepper is enough to turn them into a must-have side.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients?
Maybe you don’t have everything listed? No problem. Here are some alternatives:
- Steak to Chicken: If you prefer, you can swap sirloin for juicy chicken breast. Cook it up the same way!
- Cheese Variety: If you don’t have cheddar, try using a combination of parmesan and mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Pasta Options: Any pasta shape works. Fusilli, penne, or even gluten-free pasta will do the trick.
- Milk Choices: For those who are dairy-free, plant-based milk like almond milk or oat milk can substitute. Just ensure it’s unsweetened.
Steak Mac and Cheese Recipe
Equipment
- Whisk
- Skillet
Ingredients
- 16 ounces sirloin steak cut into bite-sized pieces
- 14 ounces whole wheat elbow macaroni
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
- 3 cloves garlic finely minced
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 3/4 cup water or beef/chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, toss in the whole wheat elbow macaroni. Cook the pasta until it’s al dente, following the package instructions. Make sure to stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick together. When done, drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Steak
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized pieces of sirloin. Sear until they are browned and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Make sure to season well with salt. Once done, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In the same skillet, use the leftover drippings (that’s where the flavor is!) and add remaining butter. After it’s melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in flour, whisking constantly for about one minute. This creates a roux that will thicken the sauce.
Step 4: Add Milk
- Slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking continuously. This prevents lumps from forming. Cook until the mixture thickens, roughly 4-5 minutes. Be patient. We want a smooth and luscious texture.
Step 5: Incorporate Cheese
- After thickening, reduce the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep mixing until all the cheese has melted and is thoroughly combined.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Steak
- Now, combine the drained pasta, cooked steak, and chopped parsley with the cheese sauce. Stir them gently until everything is evenly coated in that glorious cheese sauce.
Step 7: If Necessary, Adjust Consistency
- If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a splash of water or the broth you set aside to loosen it up just a bit.
Step 8: Serve
- Garnish with additional parsley if you like and serve immediately. Enjoy every bite!
Notes
- Quality Matters: Use high-quality steak and cheese for the best flavor. It makes a significant difference in this dish.
- Watch the Pasta: Don’t overcook your pasta. Al dente is the way to go since it will continue to cook in the oven if baked.
- Experiment with Cheeses: While sharp cheddar is fantastic, mixing in some mozzarella or gouda could add depth.
- Leftover Steak: This recipe is perfect for using leftover steak from another meal. Just chop it into small pieces and incorporate!
- Feel Free to Customize: Add vegetables like spinach or peas for extra nutrients and color. They pair beautifully with the steak and cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms can enhance the nutritional value. Just sauté them before adding to the cheese sauce.
Can I bake steak mac and cheese?
Yes! For a baked version, transfer it into a baking dish after mixing all the ingredients. Top with extra cheese and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be refrigerated for a few days and reheated on the stovetop. For a fun twist, you can stuff the mac and cheese into peppers and bake them!
How long does this dish take to make?
From start to finish, expect about 30-40 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner while still feeling special!
Conclusion
Steak mac and cheese is not just a meal; it’s an experience. It perfectly marries creamy, cheesy goodness with the savory flavor of steak, making it a standout dish worth celebrating.
Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a cozy night at home, or a dinner party, steak mac and cheese manages to impress without overcomplicating the cooking process. With a little flair, this dish can be a conversation starter and a plate of happiness. Trust me; you will want to make this recipe part of your cooking repertoire. Grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s create something special together!
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My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more