Steak Mac and Cheese Recipe

Let me tell you, this Steak Mac and Cheese Recipe is one seriously indulgent comfort food that nails the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty, savory steak. It’s one of those dinners that works wonders whether you’re impressing friends on a game day or simply craving something that feels like a warm hug after a long day. I love how the cowboy butter rub adds this smoky, spicy punch that transforms steak into something extraordinary—and pairing that with gooey mac and cheese just feels like winning at dinner.

What really makes this Steak Mac and Cheese Recipe stand out is the way the cheese sauce is made right on the grill alongside the steak, infusing it with buttery richness and a touch of that cowboy rub flavor. It’s a bit of a showstopper but totally achievable, even if you don’t have a fancy grill setup. Honestly, once you’ve tried it, you’ll understand why it quickly became a go-to in my kitchen for feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to something that’s downright delicious.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

This recipe is a combo of simple but bold ingredients, each bringing something special to the table. From the buttery, spicy rub on the steak to the blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, every element plays a part in shaping the rich flavor and creamy texture you want in a Steak Mac and Cheese Recipe.

• Steak: Choose your favorite cut—something tender that grills well and slices thinly; ribeye or sirloin work great.
• Cowboy Butter Rub: Adds that signature smoky, spicy flavor that elevates both steak and the cheese sauce.
• Canola Oil: Helps in creating a nice sear on your steak without overpowering its flavor.
• Macaroni Elbows: Classic pasta shape that holds cheese sauce perfectly, giving you that gooey every-bite goodness.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Provides that tangy, sharp note that’s essential for classic mac and cheese flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Adds a meltiness and stretch that rounds out the cheese sauce.
• Whole Milk: Creamy base for the cheese sauce, keeping everything rich without heaviness.
• Bacon Bits: Little bursts of smoky goodness that complement both the steak and cheese.
• All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the cheese sauce perfectly, giving it that luscious texture.
• Unsalted Butter: Helps create the roux and adds smooth richness without extra saltiness.
• Dijon Mustard: Just a touch adds a subtle tang and depth to the cheese sauce.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love making this Steak Mac and Cheese Recipe my own by swapping out cheeses or adding extra spice depending on the occasion. Feel free to make it your own—there’s plenty of room to play with flavors, textures, and garnishes to suit what you and your guests prefer.

• Cheese Variations: Sometimes I swap mozzarella for pepper jack for a little heat, or add parmesan on top for a sharper crust—I promise it’s delicious!
• Spice Level: If you like it spicier, I boost the cowboy butter rub with extra chili powder or cayenne.
• Vegetarian Twist: Omit the steak and bacon bits and add grilled mushrooms or roasted veggies for a veggie-forward version.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and a flour substitute like cornstarch or arrowroot powder in the cheese sauce.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Steak Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Season Your Steak Just Right

I start by slathering the steaks with a little canola oil—this helps get that gorgeous crust—and then generously coat them with the cowboy butter rub. This blend is the magic that adds smoky-spicy flavor, so don’t be shy here. I like to let the seasoned steak sit for a few minutes at room temp while I get other parts ready. Then, heat your grill to high (around 400°F) so you can sear the outside fast.

Step 2: Grill Your Steak Perfectly and Slice Thin

Grill the steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, depending on thickness, aiming for 120°F internal temp if you want them medium-rare. The high heat gives you that flavorful sear. Then, very importantly, let the steaks rest for a couple of minutes—this keeps all those juices locked in. After resting, slice thinly against the grain into bite-sized pieces. Pop them aside and keep them warm while you focus on the mac and cheese.

Step 3: Build the Cheese Sauce on the Grill

Using a skillet right on your grill, melt butter until it’s foamy, then stir in the cowboy butter rub. Let it thicken a bit into a fragrant paste—this step really layers in flavor. Next comes the milk, added gradually (about 75% to start), stirring constantly so you avoid lumps and create a silky béchamel base. Keep cooking until it thickens well, then stir in the Dijon mustard to brighten up the sauce.

Now, add the shredded cheeses a handful at a time, stirring after each addition until the sauce is perfectly smooth and creamy. If it becomes too thick, add the remaining milk to thin it out to your desired consistency. This cheese sauce is what takes your mac and cheese from ordinary to unforgettable.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake to Golden Perfection

In a separate skillet, toss the cooked macaroni with about two-thirds of that luscious cheese sauce. Then, top with the sliced steak pieces and sprinkle on the bacon bits for added smoky crunch. Smother everything with the remaining cheese sauce and a generous handful of shredded cheese to get that crave-worthy crust.

Pop it into a 400°F oven for about 10 minutes to get bubbling and golden on top. When it comes out, I finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley—it adds a nice pop of color and a subtle freshness. Serve it right away, and watch everyone go back for seconds!

How to Serve Steak Mac and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

I always top this dish off with freshly chopped parsley because it brightens the rich flavors and adds a hint of color that makes the whole thing pop. Sometimes I sprinkle a bit of smoked paprika or even thinly sliced green onions when I want a bit more eye appeal and a slight extra savory touch.

Side Dishes

Since Steak Mac and Cheese is pretty rich, I like to keep sides light and fresh—think a crisp Caesar salad, roasted asparagus, or even simple garlic green beans. If you’re feeling adventurous, some pickled jalapeños or a tangy slaw give a nice contrast to the creamy main.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist at parties, I’ve served this in individual ramekins topped with Parmesan and broiled for a crispy crust. It’s a nice way to portion things out and makes it look a little fancy without extra effort. Also, layering steak chunks on top in neat rows rather than mixed in gives a striking visual appeal that guests notice.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

When I have leftovers, I let the dish cool to room temp, then transfer individual portions into airtight containers and refrigerate. This keeps well for up to 3 days, though it’s always best fresh. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent the mac from drying out.

Freezing

I haven’t frozen this one as often because it tends to disappear quickly, but it freezes okay if you skip baking the final crust first. Freeze it in a casserole dish or portioned containers, thaw overnight, then bake as usual. Cheese sauces can sometimes separate after freezing, so stirring well while reheating helps bring it back together.

Reheating

For leftovers, I reheat gently in the oven at 350°F covered with foil to retain moisture, about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Microwaving works in a pinch—just heat in short bursts and stir between to keep the cheese sauce creamy rather than oily or separated.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

For me, the Steak Mac and Cheese Recipe strikes the perfect balance between hearty dinner and indulgent comfort food—like a grown-up twist on a childhood favorite. Sharing this with friends or family always brings smiles and second helpings, and I hope it does the same for you. If you’re craving something that’s satisfying, flavorful, and a little special, give this one a try—you might just find your new go-to comfort dinner!

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