A comforting, restaurant-quality dish you can make at home, Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shells combines juicy, tender steak pieces with a rich, cheesy pasta side that’s satisfying for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The savory garlic butter coats each steak bite with mouthwatering flavor, while the creamy shells balance the dish with a smooth and cheesy touch. This recipe is quick to prepare yet indulgent enough to impress family or guests.
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 8 oz medium pasta shells
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, cook pasta shells until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, season steak cubes with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove steak bites and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp butter and garlic, sauté until fragrant, then stir in heavy cream and chicken broth. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, add Parmesan cheese, and whisk until creamy. Toss in the pasta shells until well coated. Return steak bites to the skillet, add the remaining butter, and mix gently. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Servings
This recipe serves 4 people.
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 640
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fat: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
Notes
Use a tender cut of beef like sirloin, ribeye, or strip steak for best results. Adjust Parmesan to taste for a richer sauce. Reserve a little pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
Tips
- Pat steak cubes dry before cooking to get a perfect sear.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; cook steak bites in batches if necessary.
- Add spinach or mushrooms to the pasta for extra nutrition and flavor.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Freshly grated Parmesan gives a smoother, creamier sauce compared to pre-grated cheese.
Health Benefits
Steak provides high-quality protein, iron, and vitamin B12, which support muscle repair and energy levels. Garlic has natural compounds that boost immunity and improve heart health. Parmesan cheese supplies calcium and protein for stronger bones, while olive oil contributes healthy fats. By balancing steak with pasta, you get a filling meal that satisfies energy needs and supports overall wellness.
Q & A
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, penne, rotini, or fettuccine work well with the creamy Parmesan sauce.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can cook the steak and pasta separately, then combine with the sauce before serving to keep the flavors fresh.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
Q: Can I make it spicy?
A: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter for extra heat.
Q: Is there a dairy-free option?
A: Yes, replace cream with coconut milk and Parmesan with a dairy-free alternative.