Creamy, cheesy mac and cheese topped with juicy seared steak and buttery shrimp makes the ultimate comfort-food dinner. The golden baked cheese on top and tender steak slices make every bite seriously indulgent!
Ingredients
For the Mac and Cheese
- 12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni or cavatappi
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Steak
- 1 lb (450 g) steak, such as sirloin or ribeye
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp paprika
For the Shrimp
- ½ lb (225 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing
- 1–2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until just al dente according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the cheese sauce
Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens slightly.
Reduce the heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Add garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
3. Combine the mac and cheese
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until every piece is coated.
Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle a little extra cheese over the top if desired.
4. Bake
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15–20 minutes, until hot and bubbling with a beautifully golden cheesy top.
5. Cook the steak
Season the steak generously with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for several minutes on each side, depending on thickness and your preferred doneness.
Add butter and minced garlic during the final minute and spoon the melted garlic butter over the steak.
Remove from the pan and let the steak rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
6. Cook the shrimp
Melt butter in the same skillet. Add the shrimp, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cook for approximately 2–3 minutes per side, until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and lightly golden.
7. Assemble
Arrange the sliced steak and cooked shrimp over the creamy baked mac and cheese.
Finish with freshly chopped parsley.
🔥 Serving Tip
Serve immediately while the mac and cheese is hot and creamy. The combination of golden baked cheese, tender steak, juicy shrimp, and creamy pasta makes this an unforgettable comfort-food meal.