Garlic Steak Bites with Mac & Cheese

Why make this recipe

Garlic Steak Bites with Mac & Cheese is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of perfectly cooked steak and creamy macaroni and cheese. This recipe is not just quick to prepare, but it also appeals to both adults and kids, making it a great meal for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The garlic butter sauce adds a punch of flavor that elevates the steak bites, while the cheesy pasta brings comfort to the table. It’s a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed fresh or as leftovers, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

How to make Garlic Steak Bites with Mac & Cheese

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds sirloin steak (cubed)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
• 1/2 cluster garlic (minced)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp ground mustard (optional)
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

Directions:

1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, toss the steak cubes with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
3. Heat the olive oil in a 12-inch jumbo cast iron or jumbo cooker over medium-high heat. Add the steak cubes in a single layer. You may need to do this in batches or use multiple pans.
4. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. For meal prepping, it’s best to cook the steak through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
5. In the same pan, lower the heat to medium. Add the butter, minced garlic, and chili flakes.
6. Stir until fragrant, about 1 minute. Toss the cooked steak bites back into the pan and coat with the garlic butter sauce. Remove from heat and set aside.
7. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in the flour. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
8. Slowly add the milk, whisking until smooth. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens.
9. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, salt, pepper, ground mustard, and smoked paprika. Mix until melted and creamy.
10. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.
11. Divide the mac & cheese into four meal prep containers, topping each with garlic steak bites. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 4 days.

How to serve Garlic Steak Bites with Mac & Cheese

This dish can be served hot right after cooking. You can plate it up for individual servings or keep it in a big bowl for all to share. It pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

How to store Garlic Steak Bites with Mac & Cheese

Store any leftovers in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, just put it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. It can also be frozen for longer storage; just be sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

Tips to make Garlic Steak Bites with Mac & Cheese

• Make sure to let the steak rest for a couple of minutes after cooking for a juicier bite.
• Adjust the amount of garlic and red pepper flakes according to your preference for spice.
• For extra creaminess in the mac and cheese, consider adding another type of cheese like gouda or cream cheese.

Variation

You can easily switch up the type of pasta used in this recipe. Penne or shell pasta can make a fun change. Also, consider adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli to the mac and cheese for added nutrition.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different cut of steak?
A: Yes, you can use other cuts like ribeye or tenderloin if you prefer.

Q: Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
A: Absolutely! You can replace the steak with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based meat substitutes and still enjoy the cheesy pasta.

Q: Can I make the mac & cheese without the steak?
A: Certainly! The mac & cheese is delicious on its own and can be served as a side or main dish without the steak.

Garlic Steak Bites with Mac & Cheese

Print Recipe

A delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of perfectly cooked steak and creamy macaroni and cheese, perfect for family dinners.

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds sirloin steak (cubed)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
• 1/2 cluster garlic (minced)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp ground mustard (optional)
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, toss the steak cubes with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak cubes in a single layer and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, lower the heat to medium, add the butter, minced garlic, and chili flakes. Stir until fragrant, about 1 minute. Toss the cooked steak back into the pan and coat with the garlic butter sauce. Remove from heat.
5. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the additional butter and whisk in the flour. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
6. Slowly add the milk, whisking until smooth. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, salt, pepper, ground mustard, and smoked paprika until melted and creamy.
8. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.
9. Divide the mac & cheese into four containers, topping each with garlic steak bites. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Notes

Let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking for juicier bites. Adjust garlic and red pepper to taste.

• Author: jessica-baker
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Searing & Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: None

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: Steak, Mac and Cheese, Comfort Food, Family Dinner, Easy Recipe