Name: Steak Pepper Jack Queso: 5 Irresistible Ways to Enjoy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 26 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces elbow macaroni; 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into small cubes; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 2 cups milk; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Steak Pepper Jack Queso is a rich and creamy dish packed with flavor that has become a staple in my kitchen. This delightful cheese dip combines the succulent taste of steak with the spicy kick of pepper jack cheese, making it an irresistible treat for gatherings or cozy nights in. Whether you’re dipping chips or drizzling it over your favorite dishes, this cheesy goodness is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Steak Pepper Jack Queso

This dish is not just about flavor—it’s a combination of textures and tastes that elevate any occasion. Here are a few reasons to adore this recipe:

Rich, creamy texture from the pepper jack queso and cheddar cheese.
Perfectly seasoned sirloin steak adds a hearty element.
Easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners.
Versatile as a steak cheese dip or a topping for nachos.
Can easily be customized with your favorite spices or extra ingredients.
Makes for a fantastic spicy steak queso recipe that everyone will love.

This recipe falls under the American cuisine category and is suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Ingredients for Steak Pepper Jack Queso

Gather these items:

8 ounces elbow macaroni
1 pound sirloin steak, cut into small cubes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
2 cups milk
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Steak Pepper Jack Queso Step-by-Step

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. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed sirloin steak and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until browned and cooked to your liking. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika, stirring for about 1 minute to toast the flour slightly.
Step 4: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 5: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the pepper jack cheese and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 6: Add the cooked macaroni and steak to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat everything evenly.
Step 7: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper if desired.
Step 8: Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Steak Pepper Jack Queso: 5 Irresistible Ways to Enjoy - Steak Pepper Jack Queso - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Steak Pepper Jack Queso

Keep these in mind:

This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the creamy texture.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For an extra kick, try adding jalapeños or other spices.

Best Ways to Serve Steak Pepper Jack Queso

There are many delicious ways to enjoy this cheesy dish:

Serve with tortilla chips for an irresistible easy steak pepper jack dip.
Drizzle over nachos for a complete meal.
Use it as a filling for burritos or tacos.

How to Store and Reheat Steak Pepper Jack Queso

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through. This dish is perfect for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Steak Pepper Jack Queso

What’s the secret to perfect Steak Pepper Jack Queso?

The secret lies in the quality of the cheese and steak. Using fresh ingredients ensures a creamy texture and rich flavor that makes this steak and cheese dip with pepper jack truly exceptional.

Can I make Steak Pepper Jack Queso ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce and cook the steak ahead of time. Just combine them when you’re ready to serve for a fresh and hot dish.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Steak Pepper Jack Queso?

To avoid clumping, make sure to whisk the milk in gradually and ensure that the heat is not too high when melting the cheese.

Variations of Steak Pepper Jack Queso You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with your steak and pepper jack cheese recipe. Here are a few ideas:

Add roasted bell peppers for a sweet twist.
Substitute ground beef for a different protein.
Mix in black beans for added texture and flavor.

Each variation can introduce new flavors while keeping the core elements of this delicious dish intact.

Steak Pepper Jack Queso: 5 Irresistible Ways to Enjoy - Steak Pepper Jack Queso - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our Creamy Tuscan Scallops Recipe or try our Steak Frites Recipe. If you’re looking for a great appetizer, don’t miss our Buffalo Garlic Chicken Bites.