Save Tender, juicy steak bites seared in garlic butter, paired with creamy, cheesy pasta shells make for a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe delivers hearty comfort and bold flavor that will please any crowd.
I first made these garlic butter steak bites with cheesy shells after a hectic Tuesday at work when I needed something cozy but quick. My family loved how the garlic and cheese flavors blended together, and it's now our go-to comfort dish when everyone craves something special yet simple.
Ingredients
- Sirloin steak: 1 lb (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Kosher salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: ½ tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Unsalted butter (for steak): 3 tbsp
- Garlic cloves: 4, minced
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped
- Medium pasta shells: 8 oz
- Whole milk: 2 cups
- Unsalted butter (for pasta): 2 tbsp
- All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 1½ cups, shredded
- Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, grated
- Salt (for pasta): ½ tsp
- Black pepper (for pasta): ¼ tsp
- Ground nutmeg (optional): Pinch
Instructions
- Prepare the pasta shells:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season and sear steak bites:
- Pat steak cubes dry and toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat a large skillet over medium-high and sear steak bites in a single layer for 1 to 2 minutes per side until browned and just cooked through. Remove to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
- Make garlic butter sauce:
- Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, scraping up browned bits. Return steak bites and juices to the skillet, toss with garlic butter and parsley for 30 seconds, then remove from heat.
- Prepare cheese sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Finish pasta:
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. Add drained pasta shells and stir to coat.
- To serve:
- Plate cheesy shells and top with steak bites. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
Save After we shared this meal at our dinner table, my kids asked for seconds and my spouse declared it rivaled our favorite restaurant steak pasta. It's now a staple for family celebrations and cozy evenings.
Required Tools
Large skillet, saucepan, pot for pasta, knife and cutting board, measuring cups and spoons, whisk
Allergen Information
Contains milk, cheese, butter (dairy), and wheat (gluten). Always check cheese and pasta labels for possible additional allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 610, Total Fat: 34 g, Carbohydrates: 41 g, Protein: 38 g per serving.
Save This easy steak and cheesy pasta dinner is comforting and impressive, yet simple enough for any night. Enjoy it with a side salad for a complete meal.
Recipe FAQ
- → What cut of steak works best for this dish?
Sirloin steak is preferred for its balance of tenderness and flavor, but ribeye or strip steak can be used as alternatives.
- → How can I avoid overcooking the steak bites?
Cook the steak cubes quickly over medium-high heat, about 1-2 minutes per side, to achieve a juicy interior with a browned exterior.
- → What type of cheese is recommended for the pasta shells?
A mix of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese provides a creamy, flavorful sauce with a pleasant sharpness.
- → Can I add vegetables to the cheesy shells?
Yes, sautéed mushrooms or spinach can be stirred into the pasta for added texture and flavor.
- → Is it possible to make the garlic butter more aromatic?
Sautéing minced garlic briefly in butter until fragrant, without browning, enhances its aroma and flavor in the dish.