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+ servings
Steak & Pepper Jack Queso Mac

Cheesy Steak & Pepper Jack Queso Mac for Cozy Nights

Discover the delight of Steak & Pepper Jack Queso Mac, a creamy and comforting dish perfect for family-friendly dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 cups Elbow Macaroni Feel free to substitute with shells, penne, or rotini
For the Steak
  • 1 pound Beef Steak Diced, tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye recommended
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil For cooking the steak and veggies
For the Veggies
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers Diced, a mix of red and green is delightful!
  • 1 cup Onion Diced, contributes depth of flavor
For the Queso Sauce
  • 2 cups Pepper Jack Cheese Shredded, substitute with Monterey Jack or mild cheddar mixed with cayenne for milder flavor
  • 1 cup Whole Milk Essential for the cheese sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • Salt and Pepper To taste
For Garnish
  • Chopped Green Onions For finishing the dish

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • skillet
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced steak, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, slightly reduce heat and add the diced bell peppers and onions. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until softened and caramelized.
  4. Lower heat to medium-low, pour in 1 cup of whole milk, and add garlic powder and onion powder. Stir until simmering, then gradually add 2 cups of shredded pepper jack cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
  5. Fold the cooked steak and drained elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce, mixing well. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld flavors.
  6. Serve immediately in bowls, garnishing with chopped green onions on top.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for the creamiest sauce and avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing steak.

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