Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta: A Delicious Delight
There’s something truly satisfying about whipping up a meal that impresses both family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta is that kind of dish. This recipe marries tender, flavorful steak with pasta enveloped in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. It’s a comforting feast that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions when you want to dazzle without the hassle. After multiple attempts to perfect this blend of flavors and textures, I can confidently say it’s a keeper!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This dish isn’t just about taste; it’s about convenience and versatility too. Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta comes together in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those busy weeknights when the cravings for something delicious hit hard. The combination of steak, creamy sauce, and pasta is a hit with the entire family, even the picky eaters!
"This meal was the highlight of our week! Tender steak bites and pasta in that creamy sauce—just divine!" – Happy Home Cook
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this recipe stands out for its rich flavors and comforting vibes. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, especially if you buy your steak on sale.
Preparing Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta
This recipe is a delightful combination of sautéing and simmering. First, you’ll cook the pasta to perfection, then sear the steak bites to achieve that irresistible golden crust. The garlic butter sauce fits seamlessly into the mix while creating a creamy Parmesan shell sauce that coats the pasta like a warm hug. The best part? Every step is straightforward, and the results never disappoint.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients for a successful culinary adventure:
- Steak: 1.5 lbs sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- Oil & Butter: 1 tbsp olive oil, 3 tbsp butter (divided)
- Garlic: 4 cloves minced
- Seasoning: 1 tsp Cajun or steak seasoning (optional), salt, and black pepper
- Pasta: 12 oz medium pasta shells
- Sauce Base: 1 cup heavy cream, 1 cup chicken or beef broth, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Extra Creaminess: 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (optional), 2 oz cream cheese, 1 tsp garlic powder
- Garnish: Chopped parsley (optional)
Feel free to swap the steak for chicken or a meat alternative to suit your diet!
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling the salted pasta shells until they reach al dente. Remember to reserve 1/2 cup of that tasty pasta water before draining and setting the pasta aside.
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Sear the Steak Bites: Pat the steak cubes dry and season them generously with salt, pepper, and Cajun or steak seasoning if you’re feeling adventurous. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, and sear the steak bites in a single layer for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned to your liking. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
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Make Garlic Butter Sauce: Lower the heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic to the same skillet. Quickly sauté until fragrant, which should take about 30 seconds. Add the seared steak back to the skillet, toss to coat in that luscious garlic butter, and then set aside again.
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Prepare Creamy Parmesan Shell Sauce: In a separate pan, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Combine cream, broth, garlic powder, cream cheese, and Parmesan, stirring until smooth and creamy. If you opt for the extra richness, throw in the mozzarella. Adjust flavor with salt and pepper, then toss in the cooked shells until they’re well-coated. Use that reserved pasta water if you need to thin it out.
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Combine & Serve: Plate those creamy Parmesan shells and top them with your garlic butter steak bites. Don’t forget to drizzle the extra garlic butter from the skillet over everything for that final touch. A sprinkle of chopped parsley and more Parmesan takes it to the next level!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serving this dish is as fun as making it! Try plating the creamy pasta on a large serving dish, garnished with parsley for a pop of color. If you’re hosting, consider pairing it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh Caesar salad to balance the richness of the pasta. For drinks, a robust red wine or a refreshing lemonade adds to the enjoyable experience.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Storing leftovers is simple! Keep any uneaten steak bites and creamy pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture. If you plan to store for longer, consider freezing the pasta without the steak as it reheats better.
Pro Chef Tips
- To save time, cook the pasta while you sear the steak—multitasking for the win!
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream; it will still be delicious.
- Incorporate vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes into the creamy sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
Creative Twists
Feel free to make this recipe your own! Add different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fresh flavor kick. You can swap the steak for grilled chicken or shrimp, or even try a vegetarian version with sautéed mushrooms. Why not experiment with different cheeses, such as feta for a tangy twist, or adding crushed red pepper for a bit of heat?
Common Questions
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How long does it take to prepare this dish?
You’ll spend about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick dinner option. -
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape you love can work. Just adjust cooking times accordingly. -
Is there a recommended way to store the leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, reheating gently on the stove.
When you want to impress with minimal effort, this Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta is your go-to recipe. It’s a comforting winner, sure to satisfy and delight anyone at your table!
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Boil the salted pasta shells until they reach al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
- Pat the steak cubes dry and season generously with salt, pepper, and optional Cajun or steak seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak bites in a single layer for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned to your liking. Remove and set aside.
- Lower the heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add the seared steak back to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter, then set aside again.
- In a separate pan, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Combine cream, broth, garlic powder, cream cheese, and Parmesan, stirring until smooth and creamy.
- If using mozzarella, add it now. Adjust flavor with salt and pepper, then fold in the cooked pasta shells until well-coated, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
- Plate the creamy Parmesan shells and top them with garlic butter steak bites. Drizzle extra garlic butter from the skillet over everything.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.
