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Few things beat the joy of juicy garlic butter steak bites served with a bowl of ultra-creamy mac and cheese on a chilly evening. Rich steak drippings mingle with velvety cheese sauce for a meal that brings everyone to the table fast and disappears just as quickly. This dish is your answer to that tug for something comforting yet a little bit special – perfect for both weeknight dinners and cozy gatherings.
This has fast become my go-to for family movie nights. The first time I made it my partner said it tasted like something from a fancy bistro and honestly it is just that good but easy. My kids beg for the leftovers in their lunchboxes the next day.
Ingredients
- Ribeye steak: gives unbeatable tenderness and a rich beefy flavor Choose cuts with visible marbling for the best results
- Cajun seasoning: brings complex savory heat Make your own or buy a high-quality blend for best flavor
- Unsalted butter: means you control the salt and adds richness Choose a brand you trust for freshness
- Fresh garlic: delivers punchy aroma Avoid pre-minced for best taste
- Fresh parsley: brightens and balances the savory notes Use flat-leaf if possible
- All-purpose flour: creates a silky cheese sauce Use unbleached for subtle flavor
- Garlic powder and smoked paprika: deepen flavor layers Choose good quality spices for boldness
- Whole milk or evaporated milk: keeps the sauce creamy without heaviness Look for local or organic if available
- Heavy cream: adds an extra layer of luxury and smoothness
- Mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully for creaminess Shred it yourself for the best melt
- Colby Jack cheese: brings mellow flavor and a gooey texture
- Sharp cheddar cheese: punches up the flavor and gives the classic tang Choose extra sharp if you love a strong cheddar note
- Elbow macaroni: holds up perfectly to extra sauce Look for traditional shapes
- Salt and black pepper: to taste Season at each stage for the best flavor balance
- Olive oil: helps the steak sear evenly Choose extra virgin for richness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare The Steak Bites:
- Pat your steak cubes dry with paper towels This helps form a beautiful crust Massage with olive oil and Cajun seasoning making sure every piece is well coated Set aside while your pan heats up
- Sear The Steak:
- Heat a heavy skillet on high until barely smoking Lay steak cubes in a single layer so they do not crowd Let them cook undisturbed for a deep sear then flip quickly Do not let the steak overcook Transfer bites to a plate to rest
- Make Garlic Butter Sauce:
- Turn heat to medium and melt the butter Scrape all the tasty brown bits off the pan Stir in the fresh garlic and cook just until the aroma is strong Sweating the garlic gently keeps it sweet and not bitter
- Finish Steak Bites:
- Return the steak and its juices to the pan Toss in the warm garlic butter until every piece glistens Scatter fresh parsley over the top Cover the pan loosely and keep warm
- Make Cheese Sauce:
- In a saucepan melt butter over medium-low Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly letting the roux bubble gently You want it just pale and fragrant but not brown
- Season And Add Dairy:
- Stir in garlic powder and smoked paprika giving them a moment in the hot roux so their flavor blooms Slowly pour in the milk whisking hard as you go to prevent lumps Warm through then add heavy cream
- Melt The Cheese:
- With the sauce just steaming stir in cheese by small handfuls letting each melt before adding more Patience here means your sauce is creamy with no gritty bits Taste and adjust with salt and pepper
- Finish The Macaroni:
- Boil pasta in well-salted water until just al dente so it stays sturdy in the sauce Drain well and fold into the cheese sauce Every noodle should be thoroughly coated
- Assemble And Bake Optional:
- For extra decadence layer half the mac and cheese in a baking dish top with more cheese pour on the rest and finish with more cheese Cover and bake for gooey comfort or broil just until bubbly and golden
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My favorite part is the first whiff of real garlic hitting hot butter Nothing beats that smell My little one loves to sprinkle the parsley on top just before serving it always turns into a giggly kitchen moment for us
Storage Tips
Store leftover steak bites and mac and cheese separately if possible to keep the steak juicy and the pasta creamy. In airtight containers leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Add a splash of milk before reheating the pasta to restore that freshly made creaminess. Steak tastes best when reheated in a low oven covered to avoid drying out.
Ingredient Substitutions
If ribeye is out of reach try sirloin or strip steak. Even stew meat will work if you cut it small and cook it hot for minimal time. For variety or allergies mix up the cheese with gouda fontina pepper jack or Swiss. You can make your own Cajun-style seasoning with a blend of smoked paprika cayenne garlic and onion powder.
Serving Suggestions
This meal really shines with a crunchy salad to cut the richness or with roasted broccoli with a squeeze of fresh lemon. When I am serving a crowd I like to offer hot sauce or pickled vegetables on the side so everyone can adjust the zing and tang to their taste. For a playful finish serve with sweet iced tea or a tangy lemonade.
Cultural Context
Macaroni and cheese has deep roots in southern American cooking and is beloved everywhere for its creamy nostalgic comfort factor. Pairing it with quick-seared steak bites takes inspiration from steakhouse menus adding a family-friendly casual twist that is still impressive enough for company.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What cut of steak works best?
Ribeye is preferred for tenderness and flavor, but sirloin or strip steak are great alternatives for this dish.
- → Can I use different cheeses in the macaroni?
Yes, feel free to substitute options like Gouda or fontina for a unique twist. Mixing cheeses adds depth and creaminess.
- → How do I prevent my cheese sauce from turning lumpy?
Whisk flour well with melted butter, add milk gradually, and melt cheese slowly for the silkiest, smoothest sauce.
- → Is it necessary to bake the assembled mac and cheese?
Baking creates a golden, crisp top, but it can also be served straight from the stovetop for faster prep and extra creaminess.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or tangy pickled onions help balance the rich, cheesy steak and pasta meal.
- → How should leftovers be reheated?
Reheat steak gently covered in the oven at 300°F; mac and cheese reheats well in the microwave with a splash of milk added.