Craving the rich satisfaction of a steakhouse meal combined with the creamy comfort of pasta? Look no further than this irresistible Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells recipe! Succulent steak bites cooked in garlic butter, paired with a velvety, cheesy pasta, make this dish indulgent yet easy to whip up. Perfect for date nights, family dinners, or whenever you want to treat yourself, this meal is sure to have everyone asking for more.
Let’s break down how to make this amazing combo step by step!
Why This Recipe Will Steal Your Heart This isn’t just dinner—it’s an explosion of flavors:
- Tender Steak: Bite-sized pieces that are bursting with flavor and melt in your mouth.
- Creamy Parmesan Sauce: A luscious, cheesy sauce that complements the steak perfectly.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights without sacrificing taste.
- Customizable: Feel free to switch up the pasta or toss in some veggies like spinach or mushrooms for a healthier spin.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it's the main dish or paired with a crisp salad, this meal is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Garlic Butter Steak Bites:
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye recommended), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh, if you have it)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Parmesan Shells:
- 8 oz jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream (for an extra velvety sauce)
How to Make It
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Cook the Pasta Shells
- Boil salted water and cook the jumbo pasta shells as per package instructions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Pro Tip: Rinse the shells under cold water to prevent sticking while you prepare the rest of the dish.
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Sear the Steak Bites
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak pieces and sear on all sides until golden brown and cooked to your liking (about 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare).
- Remove steak from the skillet and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
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Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add garlic and butter, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper. If there’s any steak juice left, mix it into the sauce for extra flavor.
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Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- In another saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux and cook for 1 minute while stirring.
- Gradually add milk, whisking to avoid lumps. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Stir in Parmesan until it’s smooth and melted. For extra richness, add heavy cream in the last minute of cooking.
- Tip: Taste and adjust seasonings!
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Combine Everything
- Return the cooked pasta shells to the pot and toss them in the creamy Parmesan sauce until fully coated. Plate the shells.
- Top with garlic butter steak bites for the perfect combo.
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Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with extra grated Parmesan or fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the balance of juicy steak and creamy pasta.
- Optional: Drizzle with extra garlic butter sauce or serve with crusty bread for dipping.
Tips for Success
- Use Quality Steak: Choose tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye for the best flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Steak: Quick searing keeps the steak juicy and tender.
- Make Ahead: Cook pasta and sauce ahead of time and store separately. Reheat before serving.
- Add Extra Flavors: Try tossing in sautéed mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for extra color and flavor.
Conclusion This Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells recipe is more than just a meal; it's an experience of comforting, savory flavors. With tender steak, aromatic garlic butter, and creamy Parmesan pasta, it’s bound to become a favorite.
