Rich • Comforting • Restaurant-Quality at Home
Description
This decadent recipe pairs juicy garlic-butter steak bites with velvety parmesan-coated pasta shells. It’s a satisfying, comforting dish that tastes like something straight out of a high-end steakhouse—but is incredibly easy to make at home.
Introduction
If you want a meal that’s both luxurious and simple, this dish delivers on all fronts. Tender steak bites seared to perfection meet creamy, cheesy pasta shells for the perfect comfort dinner. The garlic butter adds richness, while the parmesan pasta balances the dish with a smooth, luscious finish. Ready in just over 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights, special dinners, or any moment you crave something unforgettable.
Ingredients
Ingredient Table
| Component | Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Steak Bites | Sirloin or ribeye, cubed | 1.5 lbs (680g) |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | |
| Unsalted butter | 3 tbsp | |
| Garlic, minced | 4–5 cloves | |
| Fresh parsley | 1 tbsp, chopped | |
| Creamy Parmesan Shells | Medium pasta shells | 8 oz (225g) |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tbsp | |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves | |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | |
| Parmesan cheese | 1 cup, freshly grated | |
| Garlic powder | ¼ tsp | |
| Onion powder | ¼ tsp | |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | |
| Nutmeg (optional) | Pinch |
Instructions — Step by Step
Part 1: Creamy Parmesan Shells
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta shells until al dente.
Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
2. Start the Sauce
In a skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute.
3. Build the Cream Base
Pour in the heavy cream.
Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Simmer 2–3 minutes to thicken.
4. Add the Parmesan
Lower heat and whisk in the grated parmesan until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine with Pasta
Add the drained shells and toss to coat.
Thin with pasta water if needed.
Cover and keep warm.
Part 2: Garlic Butter Steak Bites
1. Season the Steak
Dry the steak cubes well.
Season with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Steak
Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
Add olive oil.
Sear steak bites in batches for 1–2 minutes per side.
3. Add the Garlic Butter
Push steak to one side.
Lower heat.
Add 3 tbsp butter + minced garlic.
Baste the steak in the melted garlic butter for 1 minute.
4. Finish
Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley.
To Serve
Add creamy parmesan shells to plates.
Top with garlic butter steak bites.
Drizzle the extra garlic butter over everything.
Serve immediately.
Chef’s Tips
- Dry steak well for the best sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Use freshly grated parmesan.
- Save pasta water—it’s liquid gold.
- Medium-rare steak gives best tenderness.
Variations
Spicy Version
Add chili flakes or cayenne.
Mushroom Parmesan Shells
Add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce.
Lemon Garlic
Add 1–2 tsp lemon juice to the butter.
Spinach Shells
Stir fresh spinach into the sauce.
One-Pan Shortcut
Cook steak first → remove → make sauce in same pan → combine.
Storage
- Refrigerate: 3 days in airtight container.
- Reheat: Gently on stove with a splash of cream or milk.
- Freezing: Not recommended (cream sauce can separate).
FAQ
Can I use another cut of steak?
Yes—ribeye, NY strip, sirloin, or tenderloin.
Can I make it with chicken?
Yes—cube chicken breast or thigh and cook the same way.
What if my sauce gets too thick?
Add pasta water or a little cream.
Can I use half-and-half instead of cream?
Yes! The sauce will be slightly lighter.
Serving Suggestions
Pairs well with:
Garlic bread, green salad, roasted broccoli, sautéed spinach, grilled asparagus.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells is a comforting, luxurious, and incredibly easy meal that brings restaurant-style flavor straight to your home kitchen. Perfect for weeknights, special dinners, or anytime you crave something rich and delicious.