Prep time: 15 mins | Cook time: 25 mins | Servings: 2–4 bowls
Ingredients
- The Steak Bites:
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes.
- 1 tbsp olive oil.
- Salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to taste.
- Optional: A dash of Creole seasoning for extra kick.
- The Mac N Cheese:
- 1 lb macaroni or cavatappi pasta.
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella blend.
- 2 cups heavy cream or whole milk.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter.
Instructions
- Boil Pasta: Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sear Steak: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat. Season the steak cubes and sear them for 2–3 minutes per side until a dark crust forms but the center remains tender. Remove from the pan and rest.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In the same pot used for pasta, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the heavy cream and bring to a low simmer.
- Melt: Gradually stir in the shredded cheese until the sauce is thick, velvety, and completely smooth.
- Combine: Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until every noodle is heavily coated.
- Assemble: Divide the mac n cheese into individual serving bowls.
- Finish: Top each bowl with a generous portion of the seared steak bites. For an extra touch, place under a broiler for 2 minutes to get the cheese bubbly and slightly toasted on top.