Steak & Pepper Jack Queso Mac
This Steak & Pepper Jack Queso Mac is SO GOOD! Creamy pepper jack queso, tender steak, and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni make for a cozy, spicy comfort meal.
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 pound beef steak diced (choose a tender cut like sirloin or ribeye)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or a mix for color)
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 cups pepper jack cheese shredded
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- salt and pepper to taste
- chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced steak, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the steak is browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced bell peppers and onions. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the whole milk to the skillet with vegetables. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and shredded pepper jack cheese gradually, stirring constantly until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Add the cooked steak and elbow macaroni to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Gently fold everything together until the pasta is well coated and the steak and veggies are evenly distributed.
- Transfer the mac to serving bowls and sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve hot and enjoy immediately.
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Medium mixing bowl
- Colander
- Cheese grater
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Notes
- If your cheese sauce is too thick, add a splash more milk to reach desired consistency.
- Shred pepper jack cheese finely for a smoother sauce rather than using pre-shredded cheese.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking steak to ensure it stays tender and sears well.
- Rinse pasta with warm water after draining or toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.