Steak Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you’re craving comfort food with a grown-up twist, you’ve got to try this Steak Mac and Cheese Recipe. Imagine creamy, cheesy macaroni piled high with tender, perfectly grilled steak bites — it’s like all your favorite indulgences wrapped into one dish. Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout that needs a little wow-factor, this recipe always hits the spot.

I’ve made this recipe countless times now, and what makes it special is that blend of bold flavors—the sharp cheddar and mozzarella melt into a luscious cheese sauce, while the cowboy butter rub on the steak adds just the right hint of spice and smokiness. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to pull together, even if you’re juggling dinner and everything else life throws at you. You’ll love keeping this Steak Mac and Cheese Recipe in your dinner rotation.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient in this Steak Mac and Cheese Recipe has a role, balancing flavor and texture so each bite sings. I like to pick a good quality steak and bold cheeses for the best results, and you’ll see why below as we break it all down.

• Steak: Choose your favorite cut—flank or sirloin work great—and slather it with the cowboy butter rub for serious flavor.
• Cowboy Butter Rub: This spice blend brings out smoky, peppery notes that elevate the meat and the cheese sauce.
• Canola Oil: Helps get a nice sear on the steak without burning the rub.
• Macaroni Elbows: The classic choice for mac and cheese, their shape holds the cheese sauce perfectly.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Adds tanginess and depth to the cheese sauce.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Brings gooey stretchiness and richness without overpowering.
• Whole Milk: Keeps the sauce creamy and smooth.
• Bacon Bits: Salty crunch to contrast the creamy sauce and tender steak.
• All-Purpose Flour: Essential for thickening the cheese sauce to that perfect consistency.
• Unsalted Butter: Provides the base fat to build the roux for the cheese sauce.
• Dijon Mustard: A subtle zing that brightens the cheese flavor beautifully.
• Chopped Parsley: Fresh, vibrant garnish to finish and add color.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love making this my own depending on the season or what I have on hand. It’s super flexible, so feel free to swap cheeses or add your favorite toppings — trust me, it still turns out amazing every time.

• Variation: Sometimes I swap sharp cheddar for smoked gouda to add an extra layer of smoky richness.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce if you like a little heat with your mac and cheese.
• Vegetarian friendly: Skip the steak and bacon bits, and toss in some sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies instead.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for thickening the sauce.

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

Step 1: Season and Sear the Steak

Start by lightly coating your steaks with canola oil so the cowboy butter rub sticks well. Be generous with the rub—it’s the flavor bomb here! Heat your grill to high (about 400°F) so you get a good sear in just a couple minutes per side. I like to cook my steak to about 120°F internal temperature for medium-rare — juicy and tender — then pull it off and let it rest so those juices lock in. After resting, slice your steak thinly into bite-size pieces. This way, every forkful gets a bit of that perfect steak.

Step 2: Craft the Cheese Sauce

While the steak rests, grab a skillet and melt your butter over medium heat. Stir in the cowboy butter rub, blending until it forms a thick, fragrant paste—this is where the magic starts! Slowly whisk in about three-quarters of your milk in batches; pouring it gradually helps keep everything smooth. Let it thicken before adding the Dijon mustard, which lifts the flavors. Then add all your shredded cheeses and stir constantly until the sauce is silky and fully melted. If it gets too thick, thin it out by whisking in the remaining milk bit by bit.

Step 3: Combine, Top, and Bake

Grab another skillet and toss in the cooked macaroni with two-thirds of your cheese sauce—stir so every noodle is luxuriously coated. Spread the mixture in an oven-safe dish, then layer on your chopped steak pieces and bacon bits. Smother with the remaining cheese sauce and top with extra shredded cheese for that irresistible crust. Bake at 400°F for about 10 minutes until golden and bubbly. A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end brightens the whole dish, and then you’re ready to dig in!

How to Serve Steak Mac and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

I always finish this dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley—it adds a pop of color and a fresh note that cuts through the richness. Sometimes I’ll add a little extra crispy bacon on top or even some thinly sliced green onions for a mild kick.

Side Dishes

Since the Steak Mac and Cheese is quite rich and hearty, I like to pair it with something light like a crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette. Roasted or steamed veggies, like asparagus or green beans, bring balance to the plate too.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this recipe in individual ramekins sprinkled with extra cheese and herbs on top. It feels elegant but still casual and totally comforting. You can even add a drizzle of truffle oil for a luxe touch that impresses every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers keep wonderfully when stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I find the flavors even deepen after resting, though the crust will lose its crunch.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the Steak Mac and Cheese, portion it out into freezer-safe containers before baking. It holds up well frozen for about 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

I usually reheat leftovers in the oven to revive that baked crust, covering loosely with foil to keep things moist. Microwave works too for a quicker fix, but the texture is best restored in the oven.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Steak Mac and Cheese Recipe is one of those dishes I fall back on when I want something comforting but a little special. It’s got that perfect combo of cozy pasta and steakhouse flavor that impresses guests and satisfies family alike. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—trust me, once you try it, it’ll be a new favorite go-to you’ll want to share with friends and loved ones.

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