Steak & Cheddar Broccoli Mac Bake

Comfort food lovers, meet your new favorite: the Steak & Cheddar Broccoli Mac Bake. This dish brings together tender, juicy steak, creamy cheddar cheese, and crisp broccoli florets all wrapped up in a velvety mac and cheese bake. It’s the perfect blend of hearty and cheesy with just the right amount of green to keep things fresh. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or a weekend project that delivers big flavor, this casserole-style dish is a total crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

Unlike traditional mac and cheese recipes, this Steak & Cheddar Broccoli Mac Bake adds a protein-packed twist with perfectly seared steak and savory turkey bacon, elevating it from simple comfort food to something truly special. The broccoli florets add a fresh crunch and a pop of color, balancing out the richness of the cheese sauce. Plus, the combination of garlic and onion powders brings a subtle depth of flavor without overwhelming the dish. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds just the right texture contrast, making each bite irresistible.

If you love dishes like Cheesesteak Potato Skins, you’ll appreciate the familiar flavor profiles here but in a warm, cheesy, baked format. And for those who enjoy pairing their meals with fresh, crunchy sides, a Bacon Broccoli Slaw complements this dish beautifully.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound steak, diced (choose your favorite cut)
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cups milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup turkey bacon, chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Appliances & Accessories

• Large pot for boiling macaroni
• Large skillet for cooking steak and bacon
• Medium saucepan for making the cheese sauce
• Baking dish (9×13 inch works great)
• Mixing spoon and whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Stepwise Method: Steak & Cheddar Broccoli Mac Bake

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced steak, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides but still tender inside, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Turkey Bacon and Broccoli

In the same skillet, add the chopped turkey bacon and cook until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels. Quickly toss the broccoli florets in the skillet for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, steak, turkey bacon, broccoli, and cheese sauce. Mix gently until everything is well coated.

Step 6: Assemble and Top

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese over the top, followed by the breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the bake to cool for 5 minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled items like Rosemary Steak Skewers With Balsamic Glaze or a simple green salad.

Allergy-Friendly Substitutes

• Milk: Use almond milk or oat milk for a lactose-free alternative, but note this may change the creaminess.
• Cheese: Dairy-free cheddar-style shreds can be used for those avoiding dairy.
• Flour: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch for gluten intolerance.
• Breadcrumbs: Use crushed gluten-free crackers or oats instead.
• Turkey Bacon: Swap with a plant-based bacon alternative or omit for a vegetarian-friendly bake.

What Not to Do

• Don’t overcook the macaroni; it should be al dente before baking to avoid mushy pasta.
• Avoid skipping the roux step when making the cheese sauce—this ensures the sauce thickens properly.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing steak; cook in batches if necessary for proper browning.
• Refrain from using low-fat cheese as it won’t melt as smoothly, affecting texture.
• Avoid adding broccoli raw to the bake; a quick sauté or blanch keeps it vibrant and tender.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, cool the bake completely, then cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also reheat single servings in the microwave, stirring halfway to ensure even heating.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?

Absolutely! Ribeye, sirloin, or even tenderloin work beautifully. Just be sure to dice the steak into small, bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy eating.

Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare everything up to the assembly stage, cover, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, bring it to room temperature and then bake as directed for best results.

What can I serve alongside the Steak & Cheddar Broccoli Mac Bake?

This bake pairs well with fresh, crunchy sides like Bacon Broccoli Slaw or simple green salads. If you want to keep the steak theme going, try adding Rosemary Steak Skewers With Balsamic Glaze.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Skip the steak and turkey bacon, and add more broccoli or other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. Use a vegetarian cheese and vegetable broth for the sauce to keep it rich and flavorful.

Weekend Projects

• Cheesesteak Potato Skins – A fun, handheld dish perfect for game day or casual gatherings.
• Rosemary Steak Skewers With Balsamic Glaze – Impress guests with these flavorful, grilled skewers.
• Bacon Broccoli Slaw – A crunchy, tangy side that complements any hearty main dish.

Wrap-Up

The Steak & Cheddar Broccoli Mac Bake is a delicious, satisfying dish that combines creamy mac and cheese with the bold flavors of steak and turkey bacon, plus the freshness of broccoli. It’s versatile enough to customize, easy to prepare, and sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking for a crowd-pleaser, this bake ticks all the boxes. From the crispy breadcrumb topping to the melty cheddar cheese inside, every bite is packed with flavor and texture. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a warm, cheesy, meaty feast that’s perfect any day of the week.

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