Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender steak pieces with rich, creamy pasta. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or whenever you crave something comforting and delicious. The blend of garlic and Parmesan creates an irresistible flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings.
• Rich Flavor: The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce complements the steak perfectly, adding a savory depth to each bite.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a hearty main course or pair it with a light salad for a balanced dinner.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family gatherings or dinner parties, this dish appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or herbs to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

To make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will ensure everything runs smoothly while cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling pasta efficiently without crowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for searing steak and preparing the creamy sauce in one pan, saving time on cleanup.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Steak Bites:

• 1 lb steak, cut into bite-size pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

For the Creamy Parmesan Shells:

• 12 oz medium pasta shells
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ¼ cup reserved pasta water
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells until just al dente. Remember to reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water before draining. Set the cooked pasta aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your steak pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and cooked to your liking. Transfer the steak to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. If you are using crushed red pepper flakes, stir them in at this stage.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Mixture

Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour in heavy cream, then stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until smooth and slightly thickened, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet. Toss them gently until they are well coated in the creamy sauce. If it becomes too thick, mix in a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Add Steak Bites Back In

Return the seared steak bites into the skillet. Stir gently to combine all ingredients and let everything heat through for about 1-2 minutes.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese over your dish before serving hot.

Prep Time:10 minutes | Cook Time:15 minutes | Total Time:25 minutes | Servings:4-6

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

Serving Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta is all about enhancing the flavors and creating a delightful dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine tossed with Caesar dressing offers a creamy contrast.
• Arugula Salad: Peppery arugula topped with lemon juice and shaved Parmesan complements the richness of the pasta.

Add Some Crunch

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread can soak up the creamy sauce while adding texture.
• Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil provides a refreshing bite.
• Vegetable Chips: Serve crunchy vegetable chips for a fun and healthy snack option.

Garnish Creatively

• Extra Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for color and flavor.
• Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest brightens up the dish beautifully.

How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

Achieving the perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta requires attention to detail. Here are some tips for success.

• Bold seasoning: Make sure to season both steak and pasta well for maximum flavor impact.
• Don’t overcook pasta: Cooking pasta just until al dente ensures it maintains its texture when tossed in the sauce.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley elevate the dish’s flavors significantly compared to dried alternatives.
• Adjust creaminess: If the sauce becomes too thick, use reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
• Let it rest: Allow the dish to sit for a couple of minutes after cooking for flavors to meld together before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

Complementing your main dish with side dishes enhances your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender add nutrition and color.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy crunch that pairs well with creamy dishes.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer comfort alongside your steak bites.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and is easy to prepare.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw contrasts beautifully against rich flavors, adding freshness.
6. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic glaze create an impressive side that’s full of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, especially when trying out new recipes. Here are some common mistakes to avoid while making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your steak adequately will lead to bland bites. Always season both sides of the steak before cooking for maximum flavor.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta shells beyond al dente can make them mushy. Keep an eye on the cooking time and test them a minute before the package suggests.

• Rushing the sauce: If you rush your creamy sauce, it may not thicken properly. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for a few minutes until it reaches the right consistency.

• Neglecting to reserve pasta water: Forgetting to save some pasta water can result in a sauce that’s too thick. This water is starchy and helps adjust the texture of your sauce perfectly.

• Not letting flavors meld: If you add steak back too soon, it won’t absorb the flavors of the sauce. Let everything heat together for a few minutes to enhance taste.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Portion into single servings for easy thawing and reheating.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until warmed thoroughly.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, stir occasionally until heated through, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! While medium shell pasta is great, you can substitute it with penne or fusilli for variety.

Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?

You can opt for half-and-half instead of heavy cream and use less butter while still enjoying creamy flavors.

How do I ensure my steak bites are tender?

Choose tender cuts like sirloin or filet mignon, and avoid overcooking them to maintain tenderness.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook everything and store it in the fridge. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach into your creamy sauce for additional flavor and nutrition!

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta is an easy yet satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it appealing to everyone at the table. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or using different protein options. Enjoy your culinary adventure!