Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta

Name: Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes; 8 oz shell pasta; 4 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup heavy cream; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh thyme leaves; 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 tbsp butter

Published: June 14, 2025

by Saphira

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic butter and fresh herbs elevates the taste to gourmet levels.
Versatile: Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even date nights; it suits any occasion.
Creamy Delight: The creamy Parmesan sauce coats each shell beautifully, ensuring every bite is rich and satisfying.
Satisfying Meal: Hearty steak bites paired with pasta ensure you won’t leave the table hungry.

Tools and Preparation

To make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta, you’ll need some essential tools. These items will help streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Skillet
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Colander

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
Skillet: Provides the right surface area for searing steak bites to perfection.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Helps in mixing ingredients gently without damaging the pasta 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 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 according to package instructions. Drain well, saving a bit of the pasta water just in case, and set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

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

Step 3: Infuse with Garlic and Thyme

In the same pan, melt the butter and toss in the minced garlic. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the 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 Parmesan cheese. Mix everything gently until coated. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 5: Bring it Together

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

Step 6: Serve It Up

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and taste test for seasoning adjustments. Serve hot for a truly satisfying, garlicky, creamy meal that everyone will love!

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

Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta makes for a delightful meal that’s easy to enjoy. It’s versatile and can be paired with various sides or garnishes to elevate your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and a mild herbal flavor.
Fresh Thyme Leaves: These can enhance the dish’s overall aroma, complementing the garlic and butter.

Pair with a Crisp Salad

Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing contrasts nicely with the richness of the steak bites.
Mixed Greens: Lightly dressed greens can provide a refreshing balance to the heavy pasta.

Include Crusty Bread

Garlic Bread: This classic addition is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce.
Baguette Slices: Serve toasted for added crunch, allowing guests to enjoy the meal fully.

Offer a Variety of Sauces

Chimichurri Sauce: This bright and tangy sauce can add a zesty kick to the steak bites.
Creamy Ranch Dressing: A side of ranch can provide an additional creamy element to dip your steak bites.

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

Perfecting this dish involves attention to detail and technique. Follow these tips for the best results.

Choose Quality Steak: Opt for well-marbled sirloin, as it will cook better and yield tender bites.
Sear at High Heat: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the steak for a perfect crust.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary; overcrowding can steam the meat rather than sear it.
Use Reserved Pasta Water: Adding this water helps create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings during cooking; this will help you achieve balanced flavors in your dish.

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

Complement your main dish with these delightful sides that enhance its flavors and textures.

Roasted Asparagus: Seasoned and roasted until tender, asparagus adds a fresh crunch.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli provides nutrients and pairs well with creamy dishes.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side.
Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned zucchini brings a smoky flavor that complements the steak.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast to rich pasta.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn offers a delightful crunch; grill or boil it simply for best results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

Overcooking the Steak: Cooking the steak for too long can make it tough. Sear it just until browned and cook to your desired doneness for a tender bite.
Skipping the Resting Time: Letting the steak rest after cooking is crucial. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.
Not Salting the Pasta Water: Salting your pasta water enhances flavor. If you skip this step, your dish may end up bland. Always season the water generously before boiling.
Using Cold Ingredients: Using cold cream or butter can affect sauce consistency. Warm them slightly before adding to ensure a creamy texture in your sauce.
Ignoring Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach the desired creaminess. This helps coat every piece of pasta evenly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

item Store leftovers in an airtight container.
item Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta

item Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
item Use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag; it can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered baking dish and heat for about 20 minutes, adding a splash of cream if needed.
Microwave: Heat in short bursts (1-2 minutes), stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Stovetop: Add a little olive oil or butter in a pan over medium heat, warming gently while stirring until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta:

Can I use other types of steak?

Yes! You can substitute sirloin with ribeye or flank steak for different flavors and textures.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free shell pasta as an alternative to regular shell pasta for a gluten-free version.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Adding steamed broccoli or spinach can enhance nutrition and color while complementing the flavors well.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

Consider a fresh salad or garlic bread as a side to balance the richness of the creamy pasta.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta is an irresistible dish that combines savory flavors and creamy textures, making it perfect for any dinner table. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasoning levels. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delightful meal that’s sure to impress!

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