“Juicy, seasoned steak bites paired with creamy, indulgent mac and cheese—comfort food at its finest!”

This dish is the perfect blend of bold flavors and creamy textures. Succulent steak bites seasoned to perfection are served atop rich, cheesy mac and cheese for an irresistible meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

For the Steak Bites:

• 2 NY Strip steaks, cut into 1/4–1/2 inch cubes
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 tablespoon Lite Creole Seasoning (such as Tony Chachere’s)
• Avocado oil (as a binder)

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 16 oz pasta of choice (elbow, penne, or shells work well)
• Pinch of kosher salt (for boiling water)
• 2/3 stick unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 3–4 cups lukewarm whole milk
• 2 slices pepper jack cheese
• 8 oz each: shredded Gouda, Gruyere, sharp cheddar, and mozzarella cheeses
• 1 1/2 cups reserved shredded cheese mixture

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Steak Bites

1. Cut the steaks into 1/4–1/2 inch cubes.
2. Place the steak cubes in a bowl and season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and Creole seasoning.
3. Drizzle with avocado oil and mix until the steak is evenly coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the mac and cheese.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a pinch of kosher salt.
2. Add the pasta and cook for 10–12 minutes, or until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for 1–2 minutes while whisking constantly.
3. Stir in the same seasoning blend used for the steak bites to add extra flavor to the sauce.
4. Gradually whisk in lukewarm milk, a little at a time, until the mixture is smooth.
5. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens.
6. Add the pepper jack cheese and stir until melted.
7. Slowly add the shredded Gouda, Gruyere, sharp cheddar, and mozzarella cheeses, one handful at a time, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
8. Reserve 1 1/2 cups of this cheese sauce for topping later.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the remaining cheese sauce.
2. If desired, stir in an extra 2/3 cup of shredded cheese for a cheesier mac and cheese.
3. Divide the mixture into oven-safe serving bowls.
4. Top each bowl with the reserved cheese sauce.

Step 5: Bake the Mac and Cheese

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Place the serving bowls on a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbling and slightly golden.
4. For a crispier top, broil for an additional 5 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Step 6: Cook the Steak Bites

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the steak bites in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
3. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to your liking.
4. Remove the steak bites from the skillet and cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 7: Serve

1. Remove the mac and cheese from the oven.
2. Top each serving with the warm steak bites.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy this indulgent, flavorful dish!

Notes

• Steak Substitutions: If NY Strip isn’t available, you can use sirloin, ribeye, or flank steak.
• Make Ahead: The mac and cheese can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Customizable Pasta: Choose any pasta shape that holds sauce well, such as cavatappi or rigatoni.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Hearty: The combination of tender steak bites and creamy mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food.
• Easy to Customize: Adjust the spice level or swap in your favorite cheeses to make it your own.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this dish always satisfies.

Enjoy this Steak Bites with Mac N Cheese—a decadent, comforting meal that’s sure to become a household favorite! 🥩🧀✨