Steak Mac and Cheese Recipe

I can’t tell you how many times this Steak Mac and Cheese Recipe has saved dinner night in our house. It’s the perfect blend of rich, creamy mac and cheese paired with tender, smoky steak bits that just melt in your mouth. Whenever I want to impress friends or treat the family to something cozy yet indulgent, this recipe is my go-to. It’s comfort food with a little gourmet twist that works for casual weeknights or even weekend hangouts.

What really makes this Steak Mac and Cheese Recipe special is that amazing cowboy butter rub seasoning that coats the steak and sneaks its way into the cheese sauce. It’s a flavor combo you don’t want to miss if you love bold, savory meals. Plus, once you get the technique down, it’s surprisingly quick to pull together, so you don’t have to sacrifice taste for convenience.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

This Steak Mac and Cheese Recipe relies on ingredients that balance comfort and flavor. I love that the cowboy butter rub is a game changer for both the steak and the cheese sauce, bringing all the elements together. Also, choosing a sharp cheddar complements the smooth mozzarella perfectly, while bacon bits add a smoky crunch.

• Steak: Pick your favorite cut—ribeye or sirloin work great; just make sure it’s nicely marbled for juicy bites.
• Cowboy Butter Rub: This seasoning is the recipe’s secret weapon, delivering bold, buttery spices.
• Canola Oil: Neutral oil to help sear the steak without overpowering other flavors.
• Macaroni Elbows: The classic shape holds onto the cheese sauce so well.
• Sharp Cheddar: Brings tang and intensity to the creamy cheese blend.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Adds stretchiness and smooth melt to the sauce.
• Whole Milk: Essential for richness and creamy texture.
• Bacon Bits: Adds smoky flavor and crispy texture contrast.
• All Purpose Flour: Thickens the cheese sauce to silky perfection.
• Unsalted Butter: Builds the roux base for the sauce, controlling salt levels.
• Dijon Mustard: A subtle tang that brightens the cheese sauce without overpowering.
• Chopped Parsley: Fresh garnish that adds color and a hint of herbaceous brightness.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love trying little variations on this Steak Mac and Cheese Recipe depending on my mood or what’s in the fridge. Don’t hesitate to make it your own—you’ll be surprised how flexible the flavors are.

• Variation: Sometimes I swap in smoked gouda with the cheddar for a smoky cheese twist that really amps up the warmth.
• Spice Level: Add a pinch of cayenne or chipotle powder to the cowboy butter rub for a smoky heat kick.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the steak and add roasted mushrooms or grilled zucchini with the same spice rub; it still feels hearty and satisfying.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and pasta to accommodate dietary needs—just be sure your roux thickens properly.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Steak Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Season and Sear Your Steak

First, take your steaks and slather them in a little canola oil—this helps the seasoning stick and promotes a good sear. Generously coat each side with the cowboy butter rub; don’t be shy here as this seasoning is key to flavor. Heat your grill (or stovetop grill pan) to about 400°F for that perfect sear. Cook steaks for 2-3 minutes per side until they reach about 120°F internal temperature—this keeps the meat juicy and medium-rare. Then, let them rest a few minutes to lock in juices before thinly slicing into bite-sized pieces. Keep these warm while you make your mac and cheese sauce.

Step 2: Make the Cowboy Butter Cheese Sauce

Place a skillet on your grill or stovetop and melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the cowboy butter rub and let it cook for a minute to form a flavorful paste. Slowly whisk in about 3/4 of your whole milk in small batches, allowing the sauce to thicken gradually—this patience makes the sauce super creamy and lump-free. Once thickened, add Dijon mustard for a subtle tang, then slowly stir in your shredded cheddar and mozzarella until silky and smooth. Finish by thinning out the sauce with the remaining milk if needed to get just the right consistency.

Step 3: Combine, Bake, and Serve

In another skillet or large bowl, mix your cooked macaroni elbows with about two-thirds of the cheese sauce—this makes sure every noodle is smothered. Fold in the thinly sliced steak pieces and bacon bits for that smoky punch. Top everything with remaining cheese sauce and extra shredded cheese for that irresistible crust. Pop the dish in a 400°F oven for about 10 minutes; this step is what gives you that golden, bubbly, crispy top layer that’s totally mouthwatering. Once out, sprinkle with chopped parsley for freshness, then dig in!

How to Serve Steak Mac and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

I always top mine with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley. It adds a lovely pop of green and a fresh, slightly herbaceous note that cuts through the richness. Sometimes I toss on extra crispy fried onions or even a drizzle of a smoky hot sauce for a little kick depending on who’s at the table.

Side Dishes

Since this Steak Mac and Cheese Recipe is pretty rich, I like to pair it with lighter sides like a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some steamed green beans with a squeeze of lemon. Sometimes roasted Brussels sprouts tossed with a little balsamic glaze complement it beautifully too.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I love serving this in individual ramekins topped with extra cheese and bacon, then broiled for that personal golden crust. It also works great layered in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic vibe. Big gatherings? Turn the mac and cheese into stuffed peppers or even a loaded baked potato topper with the steak on top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I like to store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The steak stays juicy and the mac and cheese remains creamy, but I do recommend reheating gently to keep it from drying out.

Freezing

This recipe freezes surprisingly well! Just transfer cooled leftovers into a freezer-safe container or bag. When I’ve frozen it, I’ve found it best to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

I usually reheat Steak Mac and Cheese Recipe in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to keep moisture, for about 20 minutes. Stir halfway through so it heats evenly. Microwave works in a pinch, but be mindful it can get rubbery if overheated.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Steak Mac and Cheese Recipe is honestly one of those dishes I reach for when I want something that feels both homey and a little special without hours of fuss. It’s got that unbeatable combo of tender steak, creamy cheese sauce, and a crisp, cheesy crust that everyone smiles about. If you try it once, I bet it’ll become your cozy night favorite too—trust me, your dinner table just got a little more delicious!

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