Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta With Garlic Butter Steak Cubes

Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta With Garlic Butter Steak Cubes is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and satisfying textures. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or when you simply want to treat yourself to something delicious. The creamy sauce, paired with tender steak cubes and hearty pasta, makes it a standout meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and creamy Parmesan creates an irresistible taste that will keep you coming back for more.
• Versatile Meal: Suitable for various occasions, this pasta dish can easily impress guests or be a comforting choice for a cozy night in.
• Kid-Friendly: The fun shape of the pasta shells and the savory steak make this meal appealing to kids and adults alike.
• Satisfying Comfort Food: This recipe delivers on both flavor and heartiness, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta With Garlic Butter Steak Cubes, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Perfect for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Provides ample space to sear steak cubes for maximum flavor development.
• Whisk: Ensures a smooth consistency when mixing sauces without lumps.

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Ingredients

For the Steak

• 1 lb sirloin or flank steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Parmesan Shells

• 8 oz pasta shells
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta With Garlic Butter Steak Cubes

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Steak

Season your steak pieces generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Arrange the steak in a single layer, allowing each piece to develop a nice crust, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Once browned and cooked through, remove the steak from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium:
1. Add the butter and let it melt.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and thyme; cook for about a minute until fragrant but not browned.
3. Return the steak bites to the pan, tossing them in the garlic butter. Set aside off heat.

Step 4: Prepare Creamy Sauce

Wipe out any burnt bits from the skillet if needed:
1. Melt more butter over medium heat.
2. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes.
3. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking to combine.
4. Let simmer gently for 3-4 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning:
1. Stir until cheese melts completely into a smooth sauce; adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
2. Add drained pasta shells to creamy sauce, tossing until fully coated.
3. Fold in garlic butter steak bites just until warmed through.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta With Garlic Butter Steak Cubes!

How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta With Garlic Butter Steak Cubes

Serving Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta with Garlic Butter Steak Cubes is all about making the meal delightful and visually appealing. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Use Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley or basil: Sprinkle fresh herbs over the pasta for added flavor and a vibrant look.

Add a Side Salad

• Mixed greens: Pair your dish with a light salad dressed in olive oil and lemon for balance.

Garlic Bread Delight

• Toasted garlic bread: Serve slices of warm, toasted garlic bread on the side for a perfect dip option.

Grate Extra Cheese

• Parmesan shavings: Top the pasta with additional Parmesan cheese right before serving for a cheesy finish.

Lemon Wedges

• Fresh lemon wedges: Include lemon wedges on the plate to add a zesty kick when squeezed over the dish.

Wine Pairing (non-alcoholic)

• Sparkling grape juice: Serve alongside sparkling grape juice for a festive touch without alcohol.

How to Perfect Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta With Garlic Butter Steak Cubes

Perfecting this dish involves attention to detail in both cooking techniques and ingredient quality. Follow these tips for an exceptional meal every time.

• Use high-quality steak: Choose tender cuts like sirloin or flank steak for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Ensure you cook the pasta shells al dente to maintain their shape and bite in the creamy sauce.
• Melt cheese slowly: Add cheese gradually while stirring to ensure it melts smoothly into the sauce without clumping.
• Adjust seasoning carefully: Taste as you go; adjust salt and pepper at each step for balanced flavors.
• Keep it warm before serving: If necessary, cover the skillet with a lid after combining everything to keep it warm until served.
• Garnish generously: Finish with fresh herbs or extra cheese just before serving for that restaurant-style presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta With Garlic Butter Steak Cubes

Complement your Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta with delicious side dishes that enhance your meal’s flavor profile. Here’s a list of great options:

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables
   Toss seasonal veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, then roast until tender.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and shaved Parmesan offers a crunchy contrast to creamy pasta.

3. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrition and color while being easy to prepare alongside the main dish.

4. Caprese Salad Skewers
   Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for fresh bite-sized treats.

5. Roasted Potatoes
   Season baby potatoes with rosemary and garlic before roasting until golden brown; they add heartiness to your meal.

6. Corn on the Cob
   Boiled or grilled corn on the cob brushed with butter gives a sweet crunch that pairs well with rich pasta dishes.

7. Sautéed Spinach
   Quickly sauté spinach in olive oil and garlic for a healthy side that’s packed with nutrients and flavor.

8. Stuffed Mushrooms
   Bake button mushrooms filled with cream cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs as an elegant appetizer or side dish option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta with Garlic Butter Steak Cubes, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your steak and pasta can lead to bland flavors. Always generously season with salt and pepper at each step.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta shells beyond al dente will make them mushy. Follow package instructions carefully and taste test a minute before draining.
• Not letting the steak rest: Cutting into steak immediately after cooking can release juices. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving for better flavor and texture.
• Using low-quality cheese: Opting for pre-grated Parmesan can result in a less creamy sauce. Choose fresh grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture in your dish.
• Ignoring the sauce consistency: A too-thick or too-thin sauce can ruin your pasta experience. Adjust with more cream or broth as needed until you achieve your desired consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta With Garlic Butter Steak Cubes

• Place in an airtight freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta With Garlic Butter Steak Cubes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes, adding a splash of cream if it seems dry.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a little chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta with Garlic Butter Steak Cubes.

What is the best type of steak for this recipe?

You can use sirloin or flank steak, both of which provide great flavor and tenderness when cooked properly.

How can I make this dish lighter?

To lighten up Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta with Garlic Butter Steak Cubes, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reducing butter quantity.

Can I substitute different pasta shapes?

Absolutely! While shell pasta works well, you can use penne or fettuccine as alternatives.

What should I serve this dish with?

Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for balance.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta with Garlic Butter Steak Cubes is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables or experimenting with different herbs. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that everyone will love—give it a try!