Introduction
This dish combines juicy, tender garlic butter steak bites with rich and velvety creamy Parmesan pasta shells for the ultimate comfort meal. The steak bites are pan-seared until caramelized on the outside and perfectly tender on the inside, then tossed in a luscious garlic butter sauce. Paired with creamy Parmesan pasta shells, it creates a restaurant-worthy dinner that’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make at home.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Steak Bites
1 ½ lbs sirloin steak (or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
4 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Shells
8 oz medium pasta shells
2 tablespoons butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups milk (whole or 2%)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Pinch of nutmeg (optional, for depth)
Instructions
1. Make the Creamy Parmesan Shells
Cook pasta shells in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
Whisk in flour to make a roux and cook for 1 minute.
Slowly whisk in milk and cream, stirring until smooth and slightly thickened.
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using.
Toss cooked pasta shells in the sauce and keep warm.
2. Make the Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Pat steak cubes dry with paper towels (for a better sear). Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
Add steak bites in a single layer (work in batches if necessary). Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your liking. Remove from skillet.
Reduce heat to medium, add 2 tablespoons butter, and sauté garlic until fragrant.
Return steak to skillet, toss with garlic butter, and cook for 1 minute. Stir in remaining butter for extra richness.
Garnish with chopped parsley.
3. Serve
Plate the creamy Parmesan shells and top with garlic butter steak bites. Serve hot.
Description
This meal is a perfect balance of comfort and indulgence. The steak bites are juicy, tender, and infused with garlic butter, while the pasta shells are rich, creamy, and full of Parmesan flavor. Together, they make a dish that feels both luxurious and homestyle.
Tips
Cut steak into evenly sized cubes for consistent cooking.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet; sear in batches to avoid steaming.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best creamy texture.
Warm the milk and cream slightly before adding to prevent lumps in the sauce.
Let the steak rest for a few minutes before tossing back in the garlic butter for maximum juiciness.
Variations
Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the garlic butter.
Mushroom addition: Sauté mushrooms with garlic for an earthy twist.
Herb upgrade: Add fresh thyme or rosemary while searing steak for extra aroma.
Cheese variation: Mix Parmesan with Asiago, Gruyère, or Pecorino Romano for a richer flavor.
Low-carb option: Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Correction
Steak too tough: Likely overcooked. Use a quick, high-heat sear and remove from heat at medium-rare to medium.
Sauce too thin: Simmer longer or add a little extra Parmesan.
Sauce too thick: Loosen with a splash of pasta water or milk.
Steak not browning: Pan wasn’t hot enough or too crowded. Cook in small batches.
Enjoy
Serve your Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It’s an impressive yet easy dish perfect for date nights, family dinners, or whenever you crave a cozy, flavor-packed meal.