Craving a delicious and satisfying meal that's both comforting and impressive? Look no further! This Steak and Mac and Cheese recipe is the perfect blend of savory steak and creamy, cheesy macaroni, elevating classic comfort food to a whole new level. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. This recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals – you can adjust the ingredients to fit your dietary needs!
Ingredients:
For the Steak:
- 2 (8-ounce) sirloin steaks, about 1-inch thick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (optional, but highly recommended!)
Instructions:
Preparing the Steak:
- Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear.
- Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches your preferred internal temperature.
- Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Making the Mac and Cheese:
- Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened, ensuring there are no lumps. This is your béchamel sauce.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Add cheddar cheese and Gruyère cheese (if using), stirring until melted and smooth. The sauce should be creamy and decadent.
- Stir in the cooked macaroni, ensuring all pasta is coated in the cheesy sauce.
Combining and Serving:
- Slice the rested steak against the grain into thin strips.
- Divide the mac and cheese among plates.
- Top with the sliced steak.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious homemade meal!
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the mac and cheese.
- Add some veggies: Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions would be a great addition to the mac and cheese for a heartier dish.
- Different cheeses: Experiment with different cheese combinations like Monterey Jack, Fontina, or even a blend of your favorites.
- Make it ahead: The mac and cheese can be made ahead of time and reheated gently before serving. The steak should be cooked just before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
- Protein alternatives: Substitute the steak with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 600-700
- Protein: 35-45g
- Fat: 35-45g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This steak and mac and cheese recipe offers a fantastic balance of flavor and texture, making it an ideal choice for a quick dinner, a special occasion, or simply a comforting meal on a busy weeknight. It's a delicious example of delicious dishes and best recipes, perfect for both experienced home cooks and those just starting their culinary journey. Enjoy!