Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta

Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines savory steak bites with a rich, creamy pasta. This dish is perfect for family dinners, date nights, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. The garlic butter infuses the steak with a robust flavor, while the creamy Parmesan sauce envelops the shell pasta in deliciousness. With its quick preparation time and mouthwatering taste, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 25 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic butter and creamy Parmesan creates a rich flavor profile that is sure to delight your taste buds.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or an elegant gathering with friends.
• Satisfying and Filling: With tender steak bites and hearty pasta, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve this meal garnished with fresh parsley for an elegant touch that will impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Cooking spoon
• Colander
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly and efficiently while ensuring it cooks properly.
• Large skillet: Ideal for searing steak bites and creating the creamy sauce without needing multiple pans.
• Colander: Helps drain pasta effectively while keeping it intact for the sauce.

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, then set 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 seasoned with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let the steak sear without moving it for a minute or two to develop a crust. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until browned to your liking. Remove the steak from the pan and keep warm.

Step 3: Infuse with Garlic and Thyme

In the same pan, melt butter and toss in minced garlic. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add 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. Gently mix everything together allowing sauce to coat shells thoroughly. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen sauce consistency.

Step 5: Bring it Together

Return steak bites to the skillet and gently mix them with the pasta. Warm through for a minute or two.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Taste-test for seasoning before serving hot for a truly satisfying garlicky 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. The rich flavors of the steak and creamy pasta pair beautifully together, making for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Top with chopped fresh parsley or thyme for a burst of color and added flavor.

Pair with a Salad

• A light green salad or Caesar salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta and steak.

Add a Side of Vegetables

• Roasted or sautéed vegetables, such as asparagus or broccoli, enhance the meal’s nutritional value and add texture.

Serve with Bread

• Garlic bread or crusty French bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.

Create a Platter

• Present the dish family-style in a large bowl, allowing guests to help themselves for a casual dining experience.

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

This recipe is delicious but can be perfected with some simple tips. Here are ways to enhance your cooking experience and achieve the best results.

• Choose Quality Meat: Select high-quality sirloin steak for better flavor and tenderness in each bite.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the steak in batches if necessary to ensure it sears properly without steaming.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will elevate the overall taste compared to dried alternatives.

• Adjust Sauce Consistency: Use reserved pasta water carefully to adjust the cream sauce’s thickness without making it too watery.

• Taste as You Go: Regularly sample your dish during cooking to adjust seasoning levels according to your preference.

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

Complementing your main dish with side dishes can round out the meal perfectly. Here are some fantastic options that pair well with Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for mopping up sauce.

2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing adds crunch and balances the meal’s richness.

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness contrasts nicely with creamy pasta and savory steak bites.

4. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini offers a healthy option that complements the dish beautifully.

5. Steamed Green Beans: Simple steamed green beans provide freshness without overpowering flavors.

6. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side that brightens up the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the Resting Time: Not letting the steak rest after cooking can lead to dryness. Always rest your steak for a few minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too much steak at once can lower the pan temperature, preventing a nice sear. Cook in batches if necessary for best results.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoned steak can be bland. Be generous with salt and spices to enhance the flavor of your dish.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or old garlic and herbs can diminish flavor. Always opt for fresh ingredients for vibrant taste.
• Neglecting Pasta Cooking Directions: Overcooking pasta leads to mushy shells. Follow package instructions closely to achieve that perfect al dente texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute shell pasta with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.

How can I customize the flavors?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. Adjust seasonings based on your taste preferences.

What is the best way to cook steak bites?

Searing on high heat is ideal for achieving that delicious crust while keeping them tender inside.

How long will leftovers last?

Your Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored properly.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a family favorite. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or using different proteins. Give it a try tonight!