Description
Steak & Pepper Jack Queso Mac is a bold and creamy pasta dish featuring tender seasoned steak, elbow macaroni, and a rich pepper jack queso sauce with a hint of spice. A hearty comfort meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb sirloin steak, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small jalapeño, finely diced (optional)
- 1/4 cup diced tomatoes with green chilies (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Cook macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season sliced steak with salt, pepper, chili powder, and smoked paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak for 2–3 minutes until browned and cooked to desired doneness. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in pepper jack and cheddar cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Add jalapeño and diced tomatoes if using, and stir to combine.
- Fold in cooked macaroni and steak, mixing until well coated in queso sauce.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce.
- Do not overcook the steak to keep it tender.
- Add extra milk if the sauce becomes too thick.
- For extra heat, increase jalapeño or add hot sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American