Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Creamy Parmesan Shells

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This dish is a perfect marriage of indulgence and comfort: tender, juicy steak bites seared in a luscious garlic butter sauce, paired with creamy, cheesy pasta shells coated in a rich Parmesan sauce. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that you can easily prepare at home, bringing together bold flavors and satisfying textures. The steak bites deliver savory depth with a hint of caramelization from the sear, while the pasta shells provide a creamy, velvety contrast that balances the richness of the meat.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. The steak bites cook quickly, making them ideal for weeknight dinners, yet they’re elegant enough for special occasions. The creamy Parmesan shells are equally versatile, offering a comforting side that complements the steak perfectly but can also stand alone as a main dish. Together, they create a balanced plate that feels indulgent without being overly complicated.

This combination appeals to both meat lovers and pasta enthusiasts, making it a crowd-pleaser for family meals or gatherings. The garlic butter sauce infuses the steak with aromatic flavor, while the Parmesan shells provide a creamy, cheesy backdrop that ties everything together. It’s a dish that satisfies cravings for both richness and comfort, leaving you with a meal that feels both hearty and refined.

INGREDIENTS:

For the Garlic Butter Steak Bites:

  • 1½ pounds sirloin steak (cut into bite-sized cubes)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

For the Creamy Parmesan Shells:

  • 12 ounces medium pasta shells
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk (warm)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional, for depth)
  • Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)

INSTRUCTION:

Step 1: Prepare the Steak Bites

  1. Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season generously with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steak cubes in a single layer (avoid overcrowding).
  3. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and caramelized. Remove the steak bites and set aside.
  4. Reduce heat to medium, add butter to the skillet, and let it melt. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Return the steak bites to the skillet, tossing them in the garlic butter until coated. Garnish with fresh parsley and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1–2 minutes until golden.
  3. Slowly whisk in warm milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add heavy cream and continue stirring until the sauce thickens.
  4. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  5. Add the cooked pasta shells to the sauce, tossing until fully coated.

Step 3: Plate and Serve

  1. Spoon the creamy Parmesan shells onto plates or bowls.
  2. Top with garlic butter steak bites.
  3. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for color and freshness.
  4. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the harmony of flavors.

SERVINGS:

This recipe serves 4 people generously. It can be scaled up for larger gatherings or halved for a cozy dinner for two.

NOTE:

  • Steak Choice: Sirloin is ideal for tenderness and flavor, but ribeye or strip steak can also be used. Avoid tougher cuts unless marinated.
  • Butter Quality: Use high-quality unsalted butter for the garlic sauce to enhance flavor.
  • Cheese Selection: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-shredded varieties, ensuring a smooth sauce.
  • Timing: Cook the steak bites quickly to avoid overcooking. They should remain juicy and tender.
  • Pasta Options: Shells are perfect for holding creamy sauce, but penne or rotini can be substituted.
  • Flavor Boosts: Add a splash of white wine to the Parmesan sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice to the steak for brightness.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the steak or breaking the sauce.
  • Pairings: Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for balance. Garlic bread also makes a great addition.

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