Steak Bites Mac and Cheese is an indulgent comfort food dish that combines two deeply satisfying components into one bold, cohesive meal. Tender, well-seasoned steak bites are paired with ultra-creamy, baked mac and cheese made from a blend of rich, melting cheeses. The result is a dinner that feels both elevated and unapologetically comforting.
This recipe takes classic mac and cheese beyond its traditional boundaries by adding savory steak seasoned with smoked paprika, Creole spices, and garlic. The contrast between the crispy-edged steak and the silky cheese sauce creates layers of texture and flavor that make each bite substantial and memorable.
Designed for special dinners, weekend cooking, or moments when comfort food is the goal, this dish balances indulgence with technique. While rich and hearty, each component is prepared with care to ensure the final result is cohesive rather than heavy.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe succeeds because each element is treated as equally important.
The steak is seasoned assertively and cooked quickly at high heat to retain juiciness while developing a flavorful crust. Cutting the steak into bite-sized pieces ensures even cooking and makes it easy to combine with the mac and cheese.
The cheese sauce is built using a classic roux-based method, which creates a stable, creamy foundation. Using multiple cheeses adds depth, elasticity, and richness rather than relying on a single variety. Baking the mac and cheese allows the top layer to set and develop a golden finish while keeping the interior creamy.
By assembling the mac and cheese first and cooking the steak separately, both components maintain their ideal texture. Combining them at the end prevents overcooking and preserves contrast.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 65 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Main Course / Comfort Food
Cuisine: American
Ingredient Breakdown
Steak
New York strip steak is well-suited for this recipe due to its balance of tenderness and beefy flavor. Cutting it into small cubes allows for fast searing and even seasoning.
Seasonings
Smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and Creole-style seasoning work together to create a bold, savory crust on the steak. The smokiness contrasts with the richness of the cheese sauce.
Avocado Oil
Avocado oil has a high smoke point, making it ideal for searing steak at high temperatures without burning.
Pasta
Elbow macaroni, cavatappi, or shells all work well. These shapes hold sauce effectively and provide structure.
Butter and Flour
Butter and flour form the roux that thickens the cheese sauce. Cooking the roux briefly removes any raw flour taste.
Milk
Whole milk creates a creamy base. Warming the milk before adding it helps prevent lumps and promotes a smooth sauce.
Cheese Selection
This recipe uses a blend of cheeses to achieve ideal flavor and texture:
• Pepper jack adds mild heat and creaminess
• Gouda contributes richness and smooth melt
• Gruyere adds depth and nuttiness
• Sharp cheddar provides classic mac and cheese flavor
• Mozzarella adds stretch and body
Reserving some cheese for topping creates a baked crust.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season the Steak
Place the cubed steak in a bowl. Add smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Creole seasoning, and avocado oil. Toss until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate while preparing the mac and cheese.
Allowing the steak to rest with seasoning helps the flavors absorb.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Cooking the pasta slightly under ensures it does not become mushy after baking.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until smooth and lightly bubbling.
Gradually whisk in the lukewarm milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
Add pepper jack cheese first and stir until melted. Slowly add the remaining shredded cheeses a handful at a time, stirring until smooth and creamy.
Reserve 1½ cups of the cheese mixture for topping.
Step 4: Assemble the Mac and Cheese
Stir the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until fully coated. Transfer to oven-safe bowls or a baking dish. Top evenly with the reserved cheese mixture.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the mac and cheese for 20–25 minutes until bubbly. Switch to broil for 3–5 minutes until the top is golden and lightly crisp.
Step 6: Cook the Steak Bites
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak bites in a single layer. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness.
Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure proper searing.
Step 7: Serve
Top the baked mac and cheese with the hot steak bites and serve immediately.
Texture and Flavor Profile
This dish delivers contrast at every level.
The mac and cheese is rich, creamy, and smooth with a slightly crisp top layer. The cheese sauce coats each piece of pasta evenly without becoming greasy.
The steak bites are juicy and well-seasoned with a smoky, savory crust that cuts through the richness of the cheese. Together, the components create a balanced but indulgent dish.
Tips for Best Results
• Use freshly shredded cheese for smooth melting
• Do not overcook the steak before serving
• Warm milk before adding to the roux
• Reserve cheese for a baked topping
• Season the steak generously for contrast
Variations
Spicy Steak Mac and Cheese
Add extra Creole seasoning or chili flakes to the steak.
Garlic Butter Steak Version
Finish steak bites with garlic butter and parsley.
One-Pan Version
Skip baking and fold steak directly into stovetop mac and cheese.
Different Protein
Substitute steak with chicken or shrimp.
Truffle Version
Add truffle oil to the cheese sauce for an elevated finish.
Serving Suggestions
Steak Bites Mac and Cheese pairs well with:
• Simple green salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Garlic bread
• Steamed broccoli
• Light vinaigrette-based sides
This dish works best as a main course.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in the oven or microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Steak may firm slightly when reheated.
Freezing is not recommended due to the cheese sauce texture.
Nutrition Overview
This dish is:
• High in protein
• Rich and filling
• Best enjoyed as an indulgent meal
Approximate Nutrition Per Serving:
Calories: ~780
Protein: ~38 g
Fat: ~46 g
Carbohydrates: ~52 g
Fiber: ~3 g
Values vary based on ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes. Sirloin or ribeye also work well.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Mac and cheese can be prepared ahead and baked before serving. Cook steak fresh.
Can I skip baking the mac and cheese?
Yes. Serve it stovetop-style for a creamier texture.
Why reserve cheese for topping?
It creates a golden, structured finish when baked.
Steak Bites Mac and Cheese is a bold, indulgent comfort food recipe that elevates classic mac and cheese with savory, well-seasoned steak. The combination of creamy cheese sauce, baked pasta, and juicy steak creates a dish that feels both luxurious and satisfying.
Perfect for special dinners, weekend cooking, or when comfort food is non-negotiable, this recipe delivers richness, balance, and texture in every bite. It is a statement dish that earns its place as a centerpiece meal.
Steak Bites Mac Cheese
Ingredients
- For the Steak Bites
- 2 New York strip steaks cut into ¼–½ inch cubes
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 tablespoon Creole-style seasoning
- 1 –2 tablespoons avocado oil
- For the Mac and Cheese
- 16 ounces pasta elbow, cavatappi, or shells work well
- Salt for boiling water
- â…” cup unsalted butter
- â…“ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 –4 cups whole milk lukewarm
- 2 slices pepper jack cheese
- 8 ounces shredded gouda
- 8 ounces shredded gruyere
- 8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar
- 8 ounces shredded mozzarella
- 1½ cups reserved shredded cheese mixture for topping
Instructions
- Season the Steak Bites
- Place the cubed steak in a bowl. Add smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Creole seasoning, and avocado oil. Toss until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate while preparing the mac and cheese.
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened.
- Add pepper jack cheese and stir until melted. Slowly add the shredded cheeses a handful at a time, stirring until creamy. Reserve 1½ cups of the cheese mixture for topping.
- Assemble the Mac and Cheese
- Stir cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until fully coated. Divide into oven-safe bowls or a baking dish and top with the reserved cheese.
- Bake
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly. Broil for 3–5 minutes for a golden, crispy top.
- Cook the Steak Bites
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak bites in a single layer and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preference.
- Serve
- Top the baked mac and cheese with hot steak bites and serve immediately.
Notes
