Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells

About This Recipe

This recipe combines seared steak pieces cooked in a garlic butter sauce with pasta shells in a creamy Parmesan cheese sauce. The dish features two main components prepared separately and served together. The steak bites are characterized by a savory, buttery flavor while the pasta provides a rich, creamy texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The recipe offers a balanced meal with protein and carbohydrates in a single dish. The cooking process utilizes standard kitchen techniques including searing, sautéing, and creating a cream-based sauce. The combination of flavors and textures provides a satisfying dining experience with straightforward preparation steps.

Ingredients

For the Steak Bites:

• 1.5 pounds sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

For the Creamy Parmesan Shells:

• 12 ounces medium pasta shells
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Step by Step Instructions

1. Begin preparing the pasta by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. While pasta cooks, pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels and season evenly with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add steak bites in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
4. Sear steak bites for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to desired doneness. Remove steak from skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Return steak bites to the skillet along with any accumulated juices. Toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and remove from heat.
7. For the creamy sauce, melt butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
8. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
9. Reduce heat to low and gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
10. Season the sauce with salt and pepper. Add the cooked pasta shells to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
11. Serve the creamy Parmesan shells immediately with garlic butter steak bites arranged on top or alongside.

FAQ

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, other tender cuts like ribeye or tenderloin can be substituted for sirloin.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half can be used for a lighter sauce, though the result will be less rich.

Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?

Yes, use one teaspoon of dried parsley in place of one tablespoon fresh.

You Must Know

Patting the steak dry before seasoning promotes better browning during searing. Do not overcrowd the skillet when cooking steak bites to ensure proper searing rather than steaming. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties, which contain anti-caking agents. The creamy sauce should be prepared just before serving as it may thicken upon standing.

Storage Tips

Store components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or water to the pasta sauce to restore consistency. The pasta may absorb sauce upon refrigeration. Freezing is not recommended as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing.