As a lover of comfort food, I’m excited to share with you a recipe that combines the richness of mac and cheese with the savory taste of steak bites, all infused with the unique flavor of beer. This Beer Mac and Cheese with Steak Bites is a perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends.
Why You’ll Love It
- Unique Flavor Combination: The beer adds a deep, slightly caramelized flavor to the cheese sauce, while the steak bites provide a satisfying texture contrast.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different types of beer and steak marinades to suit your taste.
Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Serving Size: 4-6 people
Ingredients
- For the Mac and Cheese:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup ale or lager
- 1 cup whole milk
- 8 oz extra sharp white cheddar cheese
- 8 oz Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt to taste
- For the Steak Bites:
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into small pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to make a roux, cooking for about 1 minute. Slowly add the beer and milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted. Season with paprika and salt.
- Prepare the Steak Bites: In a bowl, mix together the steak pieces, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for a few minutes.
- Cook the Steak Bites: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated steak bites and cook until browned on all sides and cooked to your liking.
- Assemble and Serve: Combine the cooked pasta and cheese sauce in a large bowl. Add the cooked steak bites on top and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
- Add Some Crunch: Sprinkle some crispy breadcrumbs or chopped nuts on top for extra texture.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh touch.
- Side Salad: Serve with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Tips for Customization
- Beer Choice: Experiment with different beers like pale ale or stout to change the flavor profile.
- Cheese Variations: Mix in some Gruyère or Gouda for a richer cheese sauce.
- Spice It Up: Add some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use leftover steak for the steak bites?
A: Yes, you can use leftover steak, but ensure it’s heated through before serving.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
A: No, this recipe includes steak. However, you can substitute the steak with roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version.
Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can make the cheese sauce in a slow cooker. Simply combine the ingredients and cook on low for 2-3 hours. Add the cooked pasta and steak bites just before serving. This Beer Mac and Cheese with Steak Bites is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and making it your own!
