Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta

Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender steak bites with rich, creamy pasta. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or simply a cozy night in. The garlicky flavors and the comforting texture of the creamy sauce make this meal stand out. It’s easy to prepare and sure to impress anyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total cooking time of just 25 minutes, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The garlic butter adds a savory depth to the steak while the creamy Parmesan sauce perfectly complements the shell pasta.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe suits all types of meals.
• One-Pan Wonder: Most of the cooking happens in one skillet, making cleanup simple and efficient.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust seasonings or add vegetables to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To create these flavorful Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta evenly and efficiently without overcrowding.
• Skillet: A versatile tool that allows for searing steak and making the sauce in one place.
• Cooking spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients without damaging non-stick surfaces.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts for consistent flavor.

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 Shell Pasta

• 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 Butter Steak Bites With Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the shell pasta until al dente, following package instructions. Drain well, saving a bit of pasta water just in case, and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
* Add the cubed sirloin.
* Season with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Let the steak sear without moving it for about 1-2 minutes to develop a crust. Then stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until browned and cooked to your liking. Remove from pan and keep warm.

Step 3: Infuse with Garlic and Thyme

In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat.
* Toss in minced garlic.
Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add thyme leaves and sauté for another 30 seconds to release their aroma.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

Reduce heat to medium-low.
* Stir in remaining butter followed by cooked pasta, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
Mix gently, allowing sauce to coat shells. Add reserved pasta water if needed to loosen sauce.

Step 5: Bring it Together

Return steak bites to skillet.
Gently mix to combine with pasta. Let everything warm through for about 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Taste test for seasoning adjustments before serving hot for a truly satisfying meal.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta

Serving Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that enhance the flavors and presentation.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta dish.

Add Grilled Vegetables

• Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add a smoky flavor and vibrant colors to your plate, complementing the steak bites perfectly.

Garnish with Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, a sprinkle of additional grated Parmesan on top adds an extra layer of creaminess and richness to each bite.

Serve with Garlic Bread

• Warm, toasted garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce from the creamy pasta, making every bite enjoyable.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta

Perfecting this dish involves attention to detail during preparation. Here are some tips for achieving the best results.

• Choose Quality Meat: Opt for fresh sirloin steak for the best flavor and tenderness in your garlic butter steak bites.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Searing the steak in batches ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect crust.
• Control Heat Levels: Adjust the heat as needed while cooking; too high can burn ingredients, while too low may result in soggy pasta or undercooked steak.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Keep a bit of pasta water handy; it helps adjust the sauce’s consistency if it becomes too thick.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your dish while cooking; it allows you to adjust seasonings for a perfectly balanced flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta

Complementing your main dish with side dishes enhances your meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent pairings.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and crunch while being nutritious.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts offer a nutty flavor that pairs well with the creamy pasta.
3. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad gives a nice crunch and tang that balances out the richness of the steak bites.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds freshness and texture, making each bite more exciting.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements savory dishes beautifully; consider grilling it for added flavor.
6. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide comfort alongside your pasta without overpowering it.
7. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with savory flavors in your main dish.
8. Herbed Quinoa: This light grain option is healthy and can soak up any extra sauce while adding protein to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping Ingredient Prep: Not prepping your ingredients beforehand can lead to chaos. Make sure to chop garlic, measure out all spices, and cut the steak into cubes before you start cooking.

• Overcooking the Steak: Cooking steak for too long can make it tough. Sear your steak just until browned and cooked to your desired doneness for a tender bite.

• Ignoring Sauce Consistency: A creamy sauce should be smooth and not too thick or thin. If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve the perfect consistency.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold cream or butter can cause your sauce to separate. Always let these ingredients come to room temperature before adding them to the pan.

• Not Tasting as You Go: Failing to taste your food while cooking can lead to bland results. Adjust seasonings as needed for a more flavorful dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the dish cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezing Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes on medium power, stirring occasionally until warm.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about making Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta.

How do I make Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta healthier?

To make this dish healthier, consider using whole grain shell pasta and reducing the amount of butter used. You can also add in more vegetables such as spinach or broccoli for added nutrients.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While shell pasta works wonderfully, feel free to substitute it with other shapes like penne or fusilli based on your preference.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you’re looking for lighter options, try using half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative. Both will still provide a creamy texture without being too heavy.

How do I ensure my steak is tender?

Choose high-quality sirloin steak and avoid overcooking it. Searing at high heat quickly locks in juices and flavor, keeping it tender and juicy.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with hearty ingredients. Its versatility allows you to customize it by adding vegetables or tweaking the spices according to your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress at any dinner table!