High protein, steak bites and Cajun mac & cheese
Macros per serving (4 total)
550 Calories | 62g Protein | 42g Carbs | 14gFat
Ingredients (4 servings)
- 800g Raw Topside/Top Round Beef Steak cut into cubes
- 1.5 tsp Salt
- 2 tsp Black Pepper
- 2 tsp Garlic Powder
- 2 tsp Parsley
- 1 tsp Chilli Powder
- 2 tsp Olive Oil
- 40g Light Butter (for Cooking)
Creamy Cheese Sauce
- 280ml Low Fat Milk
- 150g Light Cream Cheese (Brand:
Philadelphia)
- 35g Light Cheddar (Brand: Valley Spire)
- 35g Shredded Mozzarella (Brand:
Emporium)
- 200g Uncooked / 450g Cooked Macaroni
Cajun Seasoning Mix (or you can buy premade at any supermarket)
- 1 tsp each Salt & Pepper
- 1 tsp each Garlic & Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Chilli Powder or Cayenne Pepper
- 1 tsp Thyme
- 1 tsp Oregano
Cajun Seasoning Mix (or you can buy premade at any supermarket)
- 1 tsp each Salt & Pepper
- 1 tsp each Garlic & Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Chilli Powder or Cayenne Pepper
- 1 tsp Thyme
- 1 tsp Oregano
Pro tip: marinade steak overnight for a juicier piece of steak. Lower the heat last few minutes before the steak is done while adding finishing butter, garlic, and parsley. Heat cheese sauce on medium to low to achieve a nice thick texture, nice and slow.
This recipe combines lean beef topside or top round steak, known for its high protein content, with a rich, creamy mac and cheese enhanced by a homemade Cajun seasoning mix. The steak bites offer a protein-packed component ideal for muscle repair and growth, boasting 62 grams of protein per serving, making it a great option for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. The Cajun mac and cheese elevates traditional comfort food by incorporating a zesty blend of herbs and spices such as paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano, which not only add depth of flavor but also offer potential health benefits like anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Using light dairy ingredients such as light cream cheese and low-fat milk helps reduce overall fat content, aligning the dish with balanced nutrition needs. Marinating the steak overnight with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and parsley enhances tenderness and infuses the meat with flavor. Cooking tips include lowering heat towards the end and adding butter, garlic, and parsley to enrich the steak’s juiciness and aroma. Slow heating the cheese sauce ensures a smooth, thick texture essential for the perfect mac and cheese experience. This dish is versatile and can be adapted by substituting the steak with other lean proteins or adjusting spice levels to suit taste preferences. The homemade Cajun seasoning can be prepared in advance or purchased premade, making the recipe convenient for regular meal preparation. Serving suggestions include pairing with steamed vegetables or a light salad to round out a nutrient-dense meal. Overall, this recipe delivers a satisfying balance of macro nutrients with an emphasis on high protein and flavorful Cajun-inspired seasoning, promoting both taste and health-conscious eating.
