Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. This recipe combines tender steak bites with creamy pasta, creating a comforting and flavorful meal that everyone will love. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a creamy sauce that enhances the savory taste of the steak.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this dish can be easily adapted to suit different tastes.
• Comfort Food: The creamy texture and hearty ingredients make it a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out.
• Kid-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and tender steak, even picky eaters will enjoy this meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta; ensures even cooking and prevents overcrowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for searing steak; allows for a nice browning while retaining flavor.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop ingredients without damaging your countertops.

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Ingredients

For the Steak Bites:

• 1 lb steak, cut into bite-size pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

For the Creamy Parmesan Shells:

• 12 oz medium pasta shells
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 cup reserved pasta water
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells until just al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak pieces with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and cooked to your liking. Transfer the steak to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. If using red pepper flakes, stir them in now.

Step 4: Make it Creamy

Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour in heavy cream and stir in grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add cooked pasta shells to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss gently until coated. If the sauce is too thick, mix in a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 6: Add Back Steak Bites

Return the seared steak bites to the skillet and stir gently to combine everything. Let it heat through for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan before serving hot.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4-6

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

Serving Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta is an opportunity to impress your guests or enjoy a comforting meal at home. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Add whole basil leaves for a fragrant touch that complements the garlic flavor.

Pairing with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Ciabatta Rolls: Offer crusty ciabatta rolls for a chewy texture that pairs wonderfully with the pasta.

Accompaniments

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad can balance the richness of the dish. Toss greens with olive oil and lemon for a refreshing bite.
• Roasted Vegetables: Add seasonal roasted veggies for added flavor and nutrition, complementing the steak bites beautifully.

How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

Perfecting your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta involves attention to detail. Here are some handy tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Select fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese for a rich flavor profile.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente pasta; it will continue cooking in the sauce and absorb flavors without becoming mushy.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, thin it out gradually with reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Let Flavors Marry: Allow the finished dish to sit for a few minutes before serving, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

Enhancing your meal doesn’t stop at the main dish. Here are some fantastic side dishes that pair well with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients while providing a nice crunch.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing, balancing perfectly with your rich pasta.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus gives a smoky flavor that complements the creaminess of the pasta.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes bring a hint of sweetness and contrasting texture when roasted until crispy.
5. Caramelized Brussels Sprouts: Sautéed Brussels sprouts caramelized until golden brown add depth and earthiness to your meal.
6. Crispy Potato Wedges: Golden potato wedges seasoned simply can provide comfort alongside your creamy dish, perfect for dipping into any leftover sauce.
7. Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, serve spiralized zucchini noodles as an alternative or alongside your pasta for extra veggies.
8. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or steamed corn offers sweetness and crunch, making it an enjoyable side that everyone loves.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be challenging, especially when you’re trying a new recipe. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta.

• Not seasoning the steak properly – Make sure to season the steak with salt, pepper, and paprika before cooking. This enhances flavor and ensures a delicious bite.
• Overcooking the pasta – Keep an eye on the pasta while cooking. Aim for al dente; overcooked pasta can become mushy once mixed with the sauce.
• Using cold ingredients – Bring cream and butter to room temperature before using them in your sauce. Cold ingredients can cause the sauce to separate.
• Ignoring the reserved pasta water – Don’t forget to save some pasta water! It helps adjust the sauce’s consistency and adds extra flavor.
• Rushing the sauce preparation – Allow enough time for the sauce to thicken properly. A rushed sauce may not have the creamy texture you desire.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Enjoy them within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best used within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between, until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta, you’re not alone! Here are some FAQs that might help.

Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken, turkey, or even lamb for steak if you prefer different flavors or textures.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or a non-dairy cream substitute if you’re looking for alternatives.

How do I make the dish spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or pair it with a spicy dipping sauce when serving.

Can I customize the pasta shape?

Absolutely! While medium shells work best for holding onto the creamy sauce, any pasta shape you enjoy will work well in this recipe.

How do I store leftover steak bites?

Store any leftover steak bites alongside the pasta in an airtight container in your refrigerator to keep them fresh.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta is a versatile dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it appealing to everyone at the table. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or experimenting with different cheeses. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!