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STEAK NACHO MAC AND CHEESE BAKE

  • Author: Chef Olga
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

There are certain meals that instantly create excitement the moment they come out of the oven. Steak Nacho Mac and Cheese Bake is one of those recipes. It combines two beloved comfort foods—creamy macaroni and cheese and loaded steak nachos—into one irresistible casserole that’s packed with bold flavors, melted cheese, and hearty bites of seasoned beef.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound sirloin steak, diced
  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
  • ½ cup diced tomatoes
  • ¼ cup sliced green onions
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Cook the Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set
    aside. One of my favorite tricks is slightly undercooking the pasta because it
    continues cooking in the oven and stays perfectly tender.
  2. Step 2: Prepare the Steak Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt, pepper, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for 4–5 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet
    and set aside. The aroma of sizzling steak and spices instantly sets the stage for an
    unforgettable casserole.
  3. Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce Reduce heat to medium. Melt the butter in the same skillet. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly add the milk while whisking continuously. Cook until slightly thickened. Add the cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until smooth and creamy.
  4. Step 4: Combine Everything Add the cooked pasta and steak to the cheese sauce. Stir gently until evenly coated. This is when the Steak Nacho Mac and Cheese Bake starts to come together,
    transforming into a rich, cheesy mixture packed with flavor.
  5. Step 5: Assemble the Casserole Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with crushed tortilla chips and a little extra shredded cheese if desired.
  6. Step 6: Bake Until Golden Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden on top. The crunchy chip topping becomes beautifully crisp while the cheese underneath
    stays creamy and gooey.
  7. Step 7: Add Fresh Toppings Remove from the oven. Sprinkle with tomatoes, green onions, cilantro, and jalapeño slices. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Sirloin, flank steak, or ribeye all work well.
Monterey Jack can be substituted with Pepper Jack for extra heat.
For a richer flavor, use a blend of cheeses.
Fresh toppings should be added after baking for the best texture.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 620
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Fat: 31g
  • Carbohydrates: 49g
  • Protein: 33g

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Find it online: https://cosycookery.com/steak-nacho-mac-and-cheese-bake-2/