Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta

Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta is a delightful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. This recipe combines tender steak cubes with creamy shell pasta, creating a comforting meal that’s rich in flavor. The unique blend of garlic and herbs elevates the dish, making it an instant favorite for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy date night, this recipe is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and herbs infuses the steak and pasta with mouthwatering taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: Substitute the steak with chicken or turkey if you prefer, maintaining the delicious flavor profile.
• Creamy Texture: The heavy cream creates a luxuriously silky sauce that coats each shell pasta perfectly.
• Beautiful Presentation: Garnished with fresh parsley, this dish looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essential tools you’ll need to create Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot
• Colander
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A large skillet allows for even cooking of the steak cubes while providing enough space to mix in the pasta and sauce.
• Pot: A sturdy pot is crucial for boiling the shell pasta to achieve the perfect al dente texture.
• Colander: Draining the pasta is easy with a colander, ensuring no water remains that could dilute your sauce.
• Knife: A sharp knife helps in cutting the sirloin steak smoothly into uniform cubes.

Ingredients

For the Steak Bites:
* 1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 2 tbsp olive oil
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 4 tbsp butter
* 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
* 1 tsp smoked paprika
* 1/2 tsp salt
* 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Gnocchi:
* 8 oz shell pasta
* 2 tbsp olive oil
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 2 tbsp butter
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 tsp salt
* 1/8 tsp black pepper
* 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

How to Make Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Shell Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
1. Add the shell pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
2. Drain the pasta, reserving a splash of the cooking water, and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
1. Add steak cubes in a single layer and season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Sear for about 4–5 minutes, flipping to brown all sides until just cooked through.
3. Transfer steak bites to a plate and keep warm.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

Lower heat to medium and melt butter in the same skillet.
1. Add minced garlic; sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
2. Toss in thyme leaves; stir briefly to infuse butter.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Reduce heat to low; add cooked shell pasta directly into skillet.
1. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and remaining butter.
2. Toss until sauce is silky and coats pasta thoroughly; add reserved pasta water if desired.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

Return steak bites to skillet; gently fold into pasta and sauce.
1. Let everything warm together for a minute or two.
2. Taste; adjust seasoning if needed.
3. Just before serving, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and a pinch of black pepper.

Enjoy your Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta!

How to Serve Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta

Garlic Herb Steak Cubes with Creamy Shell Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the steak and creamy pasta.

Garlic Bread

• Serve warm, toasted garlic bread on the side for a crunchy texture that complements the creamy sauce of the pasta.

Roasted Vegetables

• Add a side of roasted seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots for a colorful and nutritious addition to your plate.

Grilled Asparagus

• Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus offers a fresh crunch that balances the richness of the creamy shell pasta.

Sautéed Spinach

• Quick sautéed spinach with garlic is an easy side that brings both flavor and nutrition to your meal.

How to Perfect Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta

To elevate your Garlic Herb Steak Cubes with Creamy Shell Pasta, consider these useful tips for perfecting the dish.

• Choose Quality Meat: Selecting high-quality sirloin steak will enhance the flavor and tenderness of your steak bites.
• Proper Seasoning: Don’t skip on seasoning the steak cubes adequately before cooking; this helps develop a delicious crust.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook your shell pasta until al dente for the best texture when combined with the creamy sauce.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and parsley not only add depth but also brighten up the dish visually and flavor-wise.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a creamier sauce, add more heavy cream or a splash of reserved pasta water as needed.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the cooked steak bits to rest for a minute before serving helps retain their juices.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta

Pairing side dishes with Garlic Herb Steak Cubes with Creamy Shell Pasta can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options:

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing adds freshness to this hearty dish.
2. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn seasoned with butter and spices makes for an irresistible summer side.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta.
4. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes topped with sour cream or chives offer a comforting complement to your main dish.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrients, making it an excellent healthy choice.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon dressing enhances your meal’s overall flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Garlic Herb Steak Cubes with Creamy Shell Pasta can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the steak: Cooking the steak cubes for too long can make them tough. Aim for a sear on each side for about 4–5 minutes until just cooked through.
• Skipping the garlic: Garlic adds essential flavor to this dish. Don’t skip it—sauté it in butter to bring out its richness before adding the pasta.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold cream or cheese can cause clumping in your sauce. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smooth texture.
• Not reserving pasta water: Reserved pasta water helps adjust the sauce’s consistency. Always set aside a splash before draining your pasta.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your dish before serving! Adjust salt and pepper as needed to enhance flavors throughout.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Garlic Herb Steak Cubes with Creamy Shell Pasta in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag for best results.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot, about 2-3 minutes total.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta?

To prepare this dish, sear steak cubes, cook shell pasta, and combine them with sautéed garlic and a creamy sauce made with cheese.

Can I customize the ingredients in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute different proteins like chicken or turkey, or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

What sides pair well with Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta?

Consider serving it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.

How long does it take to prepare Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta?

The entire process takes approximately 25 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick weeknight dinner option.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Herb Steak Cubes with Creamy Shell Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping proteins. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!