Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta

Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta is a deliciously indulgent dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines tender steak bites sautéed in garlic butter with rich and creamy shell pasta, creating a meal that’s both comforting and packed with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, butter, and fresh herbs elevates the taste of the steak bites.
• Creamy Comfort: The creamy Parmesan sauce wraps around the pasta, providing a delightful texture contrast to the steak.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for various occasions, from family dinners to special celebrations.
• Easy Cleanup: Made mostly in one skillet, minimizing dishes and making cleanup a breeze.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will help you streamline the cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need to make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot
• Colander
• Measuring cups
• Spoon or spatula
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Essential for searing the steak and creating the flavorful sauce.
• Pot: Needed for boiling the pasta to perfection.
• Colander: Helps drain the pasta without losing any delicious shells.

Ingredients

For the 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

For the Shell 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

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

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the shell pasta until al dente, following package instructions. Drain well, saving a bit of the pasta water just in case, and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cubed sirloin and season with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let it sear without moving for 1-2 minutes to develop a crust. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until browned and cooked to your liking. Remove from heat and keep warm.

Step 3: Infuse with Garlic and Thyme

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant. Toss in thyme leaves and sauté for another 30 seconds to enhance their aroma.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in remaining butter followed by cooked pasta, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix gently until everything is combined, allowing sauce to coat all shells. Add reserved pasta water if needed to loosen.

Step 5: Bring it Together

Return steak bites to skillet and gently mix with pasta. Let everything warm through for about 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. Taste test for seasoning before serving hot for an utterly satisfying meal!

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

Serving Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this dish for maximum enjoyment.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A light mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta and steak.

Add Garlic Bread

• Serve warm, crispy garlic bread on the side for dipping into the creamy sauce, enhancing the garlicky flavor.

Include Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted asparagus or seasonal vegetables add color and a healthy touch, balancing the meal nicely.

Offer Grated Cheese on Top

• Provide extra grated Parmesan for guests to sprinkle over their dish, allowing for personal customization.

Serve with Lemon Wedges

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing contrast to the rich ingredients.

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

Achieving perfection in Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta is simple with these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Steak: Opt for fresh, high-quality sirloin for tender and flavorful bites.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Follow package instructions closely to ensure your shell pasta remains al dente.
• Infuse Flavors Well: Allow garlic and thyme to cook until fragrant, which enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Monitor Sauce Consistency: Adjust with reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick; it should coat the pasta smoothly.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving to ensure seasoning is just right; add more salt or pepper as needed.

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

Enhance your meal by pairing it with these delicious side dishes that complement Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta perfectly.

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing topped with croutons adds a crunchy texture.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a vibrant color and healthful elements to balance out richness.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying addition that pairs well with steak.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Simple grilled zucchini drizzled with olive oil offers a light, fresh flavor that contrasts nicely.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted slices of bread topped with tomatoes and basil create a flavorful start that whets the appetite.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings summer vibes and sweetness that pair well with savory steak bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Cold Steak: Starting with cold steak can result in uneven cooking. Always let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking for a more even sear.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can lead to mushy shells. Follow the package instructions closely and taste it a minute or two before the suggested time to ensure it’s al dente.

• Skipping Seasoning: Failing to season properly can dull flavors. Be generous with salt and pepper on both the steak and pasta to enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• Neglecting to Rest the Steak: Cutting into the steak right after cooking may cause juices to escape. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving, which keeps it juicy.

• Not Using Enough Sauce: A dry pasta dish can ruin the experience. Ensure you have enough creamy sauce by adding reserved pasta water as needed, keeping everything moist and flavorful.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow cooling completely before refrigerating for best results.

Freezing Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.

• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally until hot.

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat. Stir frequently and add a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta:

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! You can substitute shell pasta with any short pasta like penne or fusilli, depending on your preference.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can replace heavy cream and Parmesan cheese with plant-based alternatives like coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is not particularly spicy but has a nice flavor from smoked paprika. You can adjust seasoning levels according to your taste.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to incorporate vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli into the creamy sauce for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I make Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta gluten-free?

Use gluten-free shell pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well for this recipe.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta is an irresistible meal that combines savory steak with creamy pasta shells. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices, making it versatile and delicious every time you prepare it!