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+ servings
Steak & Pepper Jack Queso Mac

Steak & Pepper Jack Queso Mac: Comfort Food with a Twist

Enjoy a comforting and hearty Steak & Pepper Jack Queso Mac that combines creamy queso, savory steak, and macaroni for a delightful twist on classic mac and cheese.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 620

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Elbow Macaroni The perfect shape to hold onto that creamy sauce; shells or penne can be used instead.
For the Steak
  • 1 lb Diced Beef Steak Choose tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye for best results.
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil Essential for sautéing the steak without sticking.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Diced Bell Peppers Mix red and green peppers for variety.
  • 1 cup Diced Onion Enhances the savory base of the mac.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 cups Shredded Pepper Jack Cheese Fine shreds melt more smoothly.
  • 1 cup Whole Milk Adjust for your preferred thickness.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Adds savory depth.
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder A must for comfort food.
To Taste
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Pepper
For Garnish
  • 1 tbsp Chopped Green Onions Offers a fresh and vibrant finish.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • colander
  • large skillet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically about 7-8 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
  2. Sauté the Steak: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the diced beef steak with salt and pepper before adding it to the hot skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: Using the same skillet, add the diced bell peppers and onions, sautéing for 4-5 minutes until softened. The onions should be translucent and the peppers vibrant.
  4. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low, and stir in 1 cup of whole milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and shredded pepper jack cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is creamy.
  5. Combine Ingredients: Fold the cooked steak and drained elbow macaroni into the skillet with the cheese sauce. Stir until everything is well-coated. Taste and add additional salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Serve and Garnish: Serve the dish hot in individual bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 620kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

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