Print

Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells

Print Recipe

Looking for a meal that’s easy to make but tastes like it came from a steakhouse? These Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells are the perfect combination of tender, juicy steak and rich, cheesy pasta. The steak bites are seared to perfection in a garlic butter sauce, while the creamy parmesan shells provide a comforting, indulgent side. This dish is quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Garlic Butter Steak Bites:

  • 1 ½ lbs sirloin steak (or ribeye), cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (for garnish)

For the Creamy Parmesan Shells:

  • 12 oz medium pasta shells (or any short pasta)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ¾ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water.
  4. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Garlic Butter Steak Bites

  1. Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
  3. Add the steak in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
  4. Lower the heat to medium, add butter and minced garlic, and cook for another 30 seconds.
  5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley and parmesan cheese.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
  3. Pour in heavy cream and stir constantly.
  4. Add parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until smooth.
  5. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to adjust the sauce consistency.

Step 4: Toss the Pasta & Serve

  1. Add the cooked pasta shells to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
  2. Serve the pasta with the garlic butter steak bites on the side.
  3. Garnish with extra parmesan and fresh parsley.
  4. Enjoy immediately!

Notes

✔ Best Steak Choices: Sirloin and ribeye are ideal for tenderness and flavor. Avoid tougher cuts unless marinating first.
✔ Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat pasta with a splash of cream or milk to maintain its texture.
✔ Spicy Option: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
✔ Lighter Version: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk.

Find it online: https://claradelish.com/garlic-butter-steak-bites-creamy-parmesan-shells/