If you’re craving a dinner that brings together juicy, tender meat with luscious, comforting pasta, then the Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Shell Pasta Recipe is exactly what your taste buds have been waiting for. This dish perfectly combines savory steak cubes seared to perfection with a decadent garlic butter sauce and a rich, creamy shell pasta that soaks up every bit of flavor. It’s an irresistibly satisfying meal that’s surprisingly simple to make, yet feels indulgent and special enough for any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Shell Pasta Recipe comes down to using straightforward, high-quality ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role: the sirloin steak ensures tender, flavorful bites, the garlic and butter create that signature richness, and the heavy cream and Parmesan deliver the silky, creamy pasta sauce that clings perfectly to the shells.
- 1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes: Choose good-quality steak for tender, juicy bites.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Perfect for searing the steak and adding depth to the pasta.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that aromatic, savory punch throughout the dish.
- 4 tbsp butter: Adds richness and helps develop the sauce’s lush texture.
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves: Fresh herbaceous notes balance the richness.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Provides a subtle smoky warmth that elevates the steak.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that complements the garlic.
- 8 oz shell pasta: The perfect shape to catch the creamy sauce.
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for pasta): Keeps the cooked pasta from sticking and adds a silky finish.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates the creamy sauce that binds everything together.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, savory depth to the cream sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (for pasta sauce): Infuses the sauce with more garlicky goodness.
- 1/4 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper (for sauce): Season the sauce delicately for balance.
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish: Adds freshness and a pop of green to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Shell Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the shell pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain it well, but save a little of that pasta water. This starchy water will help you thin out the sauce later if it feels too thick, so don’t toss it all away.
Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the steak cubes and sprinkle them with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until each piece is beautifully browned on all sides and cooked just how you like. Then, transfer the steak bites to a plate so they can rest while you make the sauce.
Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Let it sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, releasing that intoxicating garlic aroma. Stir in fresh thyme leaves. This fragrant base is the heart of the rich sauce that will tie the whole dish together.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Pasta Sauce
Turn the heat down to low and add the cooked shell pasta right into the garlic butter sauce. Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, slowly add reserved pasta water until you get the perfect creamy consistency.
Step 5: Combine Steak Bites and Pasta
Return the steak bites to the skillet and gently toss them with the creamy pasta. Make sure every bite gets coated with the luscious sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Then sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a lovely fresh finish.
Step 6: Plate and Serve
Spoon the rich Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Shell Pasta Recipe onto plates and serve immediately to enjoy its full, comforting flavor while it’s hot. The combination of tender steak, creamy pasta, and garlicky butter sauce is simply irresistible.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Shell Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a must-have garnish for this dish, adding a bright, herbal contrast to the rich flavors. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of finely grated Parmesan or a dash of red pepper flakes can also elevate the final presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty meal with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts bring complementary textures and flavors that brighten each bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, serve the pasta and steak bites in small cast iron skillets at each setting for a rustic look. Or use wide shallow bowls to show off the creamy sauce and tender steak, garnished with colorful parsley and a lemon wedge for zest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The steak might become slightly more cooked during reheating, so keep that in mind for maintaining optimal texture.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to save some for later. Place portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to preserve creaminess and steak tenderness.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or cream if the sauce thickens too much. Avoid microwaving to keep the sauce silky and the steak tender without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin is ideal for juicy, tender bites, you can use ribeye, strip steak, or even filet mignon cubes. Just make sure to cut them into uniform pieces for even cooking.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of flour to thicken if you want a lighter sauce, but it won’t be as rich and creamy as using heavy cream.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the shell pasta for gluten-free pasta, and make sure your seasoning and cheese are gluten-free, which is usually the case.
How do I get the steak bites extra tender?
Pat the steak dry before cooking to get a nice sear, and avoid overcrowding the pan so the meat browns rather than steams. Cooking to medium-rare or medium keeps the steak juicy and tender.
Can I add vegetables directly into the pasta?
Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes would be wonderful additions stirred into the pasta along with the steak bites for extra flavor and nutrition.
Final Thoughts
The Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Shell Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. With its hearty steak, garlicky butter, and ultra-creamy pasta, it’s both indulgent and satisfying without being complicated. I truly hope you dive in and enjoy this flavorful, comforting meal as much as I do—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and quick enough for any night when you need something special.
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Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Shell Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Savor a deliciously rich and creamy Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Shell Pasta dish, featuring tender sirloin steak cubes seared to perfection and tossed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce with fresh thyme, smoky paprika, and Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a hearty and comforting meal that comes together in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Steak Bites
- 1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Pasta
- 8 oz shell pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the shell pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well, reserving a small amount of pasta water for later use, then set the pasta aside.
- Sear Steak Bites: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak cubes, seasoning them with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove the steak bites from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Thyme: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Stir in the fresh thyme leaves to release their aroma.
- Makes Cream Sauce: Lower the heat and add the cooked pasta back into the skillet. Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach the desired sauce consistency.
- Combine Steak and Pasta: Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss gently to combine everything, ensuring the steak is well coated with the sauce. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top, and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Plate the creamy garlic butter steak bites and shell pasta immediately to enjoy the rich, garlicky, and comforting flavors at their best.
Notes
- Use sirloin steak for tenderness and flavor; you can substitute with ribeye or strip steak if preferred.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust the cream sauce’s consistency to your liking.
- For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic.
- If unable to find fresh thyme, 1 teaspoon dried thyme can be used but add it earlier during garlic sautéing to bloom the flavor.
- To reduce calories, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but sauce will be less rich.
- Ensure you do not overcook the steak to keep it juicy and tender.
