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Creamy Steak & Pepper Jack Queso Mac

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This dish features tender elbow macaroni pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy Pepper Jack queso sauce. Succulent pieces of seasoned steak are folded into the cheesy pasta, alongside diced red bell peppers for a touch of sweetness and vibrant color. The dish is finished with a sprinkle of fresh green onions and grated cheese, offering a harmonious blend of savory, subtly spicy, and comforting flavors with varied textures.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 1 teaspoon salt, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
  • 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 8 ounces Pepper Jack cheese, shredded
  • 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season steak cubes with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
  3. Add steak to the hot skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove steak from skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced red bell pepper and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
  5. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
  6. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
  7. Reduce heat to low. Add shredded Pepper Jack cheese and cheddar cheese (if using), stirring until melted and smooth. Season with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  8. Add the cooked macaroni and seared steak to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to combine everything thoroughly.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh green onions and an extra sprinkle of grated cheese if desired.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use a good quality sirloin or flank steak.

Do not overcook the pasta; it will continue to cook slightly in the hot sauce.

Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the spice level to your preference.

If the sauce becomes too thick upon standing, add a splash of milk when reheating to restore consistency.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cooksillo.com/creamy-steak-pepper-jack-queso-mac/