Go Back
+ servings

Creamy Paprika Steak Shells

Please rate us
A cozy and indulgent dish featuring tender steak with a smoky paprika crust, tossed with pasta shells in a silky cream-and-broth sauce.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 620

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound steak (sirloin or ribeye) Sirloin for leaner options, ribeye for more marbling.
  • 2 tablespoons paprika Sweet or smoked, depending on preference.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Or neutral oil with a high smoke point.
  • 2 cups pasta shells (approx. 6–8 ounces dry) Medium shells hold sauce nicely.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Substitute half-and-half in a pinch for a thinner sauce.
  • 1 cup beef broth Low-sodium preferred for better salt control.
  • 1 medium onion, diced Yellow or sweet onion works well.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Or 1 tsp garlic paste.
  • Fresh parsley for garnish Optional garnish; lemon zest can also brighten the dish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain, toss with a teaspoon of olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
  2. Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Season generously on both sides with paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cooking
  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the steak and sear 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Transfer steak to a cutting board and let rest for 5–10 minutes.
  2. Reduce heat to medium. Add diced onion to the same skillet and sauté for 3–4 minutes, scraping up brown bits. Add minced garlic and cook for 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Let the broth reduce by about half.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream and heat gently until the sauce is warm and slightly thickened, about 2–3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  5. Slice or chop the rested steak into bite-sized pieces and return to the skillet to warm through.
  6. Add the cooked shells to the skillet and toss gently until coated in sauce. If sauce seems too thick, loosen with a splash of pasta water or extra broth.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 620kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4g

Notes

Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3–4 days. Freeze the beef and sauce (without pasta) for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!