Name: Steak & Pepper Jack Queso Mac Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces elbow macaroni; 1 pound beef steak (diced, choose a tender cut like sirloin or ribeye); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or a mix for color); 1 cup diced onion; 2 cups pepper jack cheese (shredded); 1 cup whole milk; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper (to taste); Chopped green onions (for garnish)

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Introduction

This Steak & Pepper Jack Queso Mac is a flavorful twist on classic macaroni and cheese. Tender diced steak, sautéed vegetables, and spicy pepper jack cheese come together for a comforting, hearty meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

A close-up view of a pasta dish in a black skillet filled with three main layers: the first layer is creamy macaroni pasta in a pale yellow sauce that looks smooth and cheesy, the second layer includes pieces of cooked beef cubes that are brown and slightly crispy on the edges, and the third layer shows red bell pepper slices adding a bright red contrast, all topped with chopped green herbs sprinkled evenly for a fresh touch. The surface around the skillet is white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 ounces elbow macaroni
1 pound beef steak (diced, such as sirloin or ribeye)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or a mix)
1 cup diced onion
2 cups pepper jack cheese (shredded)
1 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced steak, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add the diced bell peppers and onions. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 4–5 minutes.
Step 4: Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour in the whole milk with the vegetables. Gradually stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and shredded pepper jack cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Add the cooked steak and macaroni back into the skillet. Gently fold everything together until the pasta is evenly coated and the steak and veggies are well distributed.
Step 6: Spoon into serving bowls and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh finish. Serve hot and enjoy immediately.

Tips & Variations

For a smoky flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the cheese sauce.
Substitute the steak with cooked shredded chicken for a different protein option.
If you prefer a milder cheese sauce, use Monterey Jack or mild cheddar instead of pepper jack.
To make it extra creamy, stir in a tablespoon of butter along with the cheese.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a baked pasta dish in a black skillet, showing three main layers: the base is curly macaroni pasta in a light yellow color with some browned spots, the middle layer has chunks of brown cooked meat mixed with soft pieces of orange-red tomato, and the top layer is melted white cheese covering the dish unevenly. The dish is sprinkled with small chopped green onions and herbs, adding green color throughout. The skillet is placed on a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other small pasta shapes like shells, penne, or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to keep it al dente.

How do I know when the steak is cooked properly?

The diced steak should be browned on all sides and cooked through, which usually takes 5–7 minutes over medium-high heat. You can cut a piece to check that it’s cooked to your liking before removing it from the skillet.