Ultimate Steak & Peppers with Creamy Mac and Cheese – A Comfort Food Classic
When it comes to soul-warming, flavor-packed comfort food, few dishes can rival a plate of tender steak strips, sautéed bell peppers, and creamy mac and cheese. This meal is the ultimate fusion of bold, savory flavors and indulgent, cheesy goodness, making it a perfect option for a hearty dinner or a satisfying weekend feast.
The combination of perfectly seasoned beef, caramelized onions, and smoky peppers paired with rich, velvety mac and cheese creates a dish that is both deeply satisfying and incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple techniques, you can achieve restaurant-quality flavors in the comfort of your own kitchen.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Packed with Bold Flavors – The steak is seasoned to perfection and complemented by sweet, smoky peppers and onions.
✔ Ultra-Creamy Mac and Cheese – Made with a silky cheese sauce, this side dish is the ultimate indulgence.
✔ Easy to Make – With just 45 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
✔ A Comfort Food Classic – This dish is warm, hearty, and packed with satisfying textures that everyone will love.
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Ingredients & Their Roles
For the Steak and Peppers:
1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, thinly sliced – The key to juicy, flavorful steak that cooks quickly.
1 tbsp olive oil & 1 tbsp butter – A mix of oil and butter enhances richness while allowing a perfect sear.
1 small onion, thinly sliced – Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the dish.
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced – Slightly sweet and smoky, balancing the richness of the steak.
1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced – Mildly bitter, creating contrast in flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Boosts aroma and enhances the overall taste.
1 tsp smoked paprika – Gives the dish a smoky, slightly spicy depth.
½ tsp salt & ½ tsp black pepper – Essential seasonings to bring out the steak’s natural flavors.
½ tsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami and a slight tang for a well-rounded taste.
For the Creamy Mac and Cheese:
2 cups elbow macaroni – The ideal pasta shape to hold the cheese sauce.
2 tbsp butter – Forms the base of the sauce for a rich, creamy texture.
2 tbsp all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the cheese sauce for perfect consistency.
2 cups whole milk – Provides creaminess and smoothness to the sauce.
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded – The star ingredient for that classic cheesy flavor.
½ cup gouda or mozzarella cheese, shredded – Adds extra creaminess and a slight smokiness.
½ tsp garlic powder – Enhances the sauce with a subtle garlicky flavor.
½ tsp mustard powder – Balances out the richness with a hint of tang.
Salt and pepper to taste
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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Steak and Peppers
1. Freeze the steak for 20-30 minutes before slicing to make it easier to cut into thin strips.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they soften and caramelize slightly. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
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