Creamy Steak and Pepper Jack Mac and Cheese Dinner delivers a comforting, melty bowl packed with savory steak and sharp pepper jack—a favorite for any family dinner. This recipe is as easy as it sounds, taking only 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, so you can have dinner on the table quickly. The buttery sauce clings to tender pasta, while the pepper jack melts into glossy crescents of flavor that melt in your mouth. Pair it with my Easy Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Fresh Herb Slaw for a full, satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight family favorites.
Why You'll Love Creamy Steak and Pepper Jack Mac and Cheese Dinner: Easy, Homemade Comfort Food
- Fast and family‑friendly: 40 minutes total
- Heavy on melty cheese and tender steak
- Comfort‑food vibes with a modern twist
- Great for leftovers or meal prep
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz sirloin steak, sliced thin
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all‑purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt, plus to taste
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Optional Toppings
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- Additional pepper jack shredded for topping
- Crumbled bacon for a smoky crunch
Instructions
Step 1
Step 1 - Cook the Pasta: Bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook 8–10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside while keeping the pot warm.
Step 2
Step 2 - Sear the Steak: Heat a large skillet over medium‑high. Add a splash of oil, then sear steak slices for 2 minutes per side until seared but still juicy. Remove, slice into bite‑size strips, and set aside.
Step 3
Step 3 - Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter. Stir in flour and whisk for 1 minute to make a roux. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, cooking for 3–4 minutes until thick. Add garlic, onion, paprika, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat, stir in 1 ½ cups shredded pepper jack. Let sauce meld for 2 minutes.
Recipe Card
Savor this Creamy Steak and Pepper Jack Mac and Cheese Dinner—quick, family-friendly, and packed with melty cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal.