Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together tender steak bites and creamy pasta in a rich sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or any occasion, this recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors that will impress your family and friends. The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce elevates the dish, making it a standout meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner.
• Flavor Packed: Rich garlic and Parmesan flavors create a creamy sauce that perfectly coats the steak and pasta.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use different types of steak or pasta to customize the dish according to your taste preferences.
• Family Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this creamy pasta, making it a great option for all ages.
• One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the essential tools needed for this recipe. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta efficiently while ensuring even cooking.
• Skillet: Perfect for searing steak bites and creating the flavorful sauce in one pan.
• Colander: Helps drain pasta easily without losing any precious noodles.

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
• Cup 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
• Cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 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

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the medium pasta shells until just al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites

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

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

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

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 5: Mix Pasta and Sauce

1. Add cooked pasta shells to the skillet.
2. Toss until coated in the creamy sauce; if too thick, add in some reserved pasta water.

Step 6: Return Steak to Skillet

1. Gently return steak bites to the skillet.
2. Stir to combine everything well and let it heat through for about 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Serve Hot

1. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and additional grated Parmesan before serving hot.

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta recipe is sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy your delicious meal!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

Serving Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta is an enjoyable experience that can be enhanced with a few thoughtful touches. Here are some ideas to elevate your dish for any occasion.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Basil: Add fresh basil leaves for a fragrant twist that complements the creamy sauce.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread alongside for a delightful combination of flavors.
• Breadsticks: Soft, cheesy breadsticks can be perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides crisp greens and tangy dressing, balancing the richness of the pasta.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad with a vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the meal.

How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

To achieve the best version of this dish, consider these helpful tips. They can make a significant difference in taste and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese enhance the flavors dramatically.
• Don’t Overcook the Steak: Sear the steak just until browned to maintain tenderness; it should still be juicy.
• Reserve Pasta Water Wisely: Keep some pasta water handy; it can help adjust the sauce’s consistency if it thickens too much.
• Adjust Seasoning as Needed: Taste your sauce before serving; feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or garlic powder to suit your palate.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes helps meld the flavors together even more.

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

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables – Roasting seasonal vegetables adds delicious flavor and nutrients; try carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers.
2. Steamed Broccoli – Simple steamed broccoli not only looks great on the plate but also offers a healthy crunch that complements rich pasta.
3. Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze bring freshness and acidity to balance the meal.
4. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn on the cob provides sweetness and is fun to eat alongside this hearty dish.
5. Crispy Brussels Sprouts – Roasted Brussels sprouts develop crispy edges and pairs wonderfully with steak bites.
6. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and lemon dressing adds texture and flavor without overwhelming the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Steak: Searing steak bites for too long can lead to tough meat. Aim for a medium-rare finish for tender results.
• Neglecting Pasta Cooking Times: Cooking pasta shells beyond al dente can make them mushy. Follow package instructions carefully and taste test for the perfect texture.
• Skipping Reserved Pasta Water: Not reserving pasta water means losing a valuable tool for adjusting sauce consistency. Always save some before draining!
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold cream or butter can cause the sauce to seize. Let them come to room temperature for a smoother blend.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: If your sauce tastes bland, you may need to adjust seasonings. Trust your palate and add more salt or spices as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• item Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

• item Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• item Best used within 2-3 months.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta:

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! While shell pasta works great, you can substitute it with any favorite pasta shape like penne or fusilli.

How do I customize the flavors?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. You can also experiment with different cheese varieties for added flavor!

What type of steak is best for this recipe?

Tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye work well. Choose a cut that suits your taste and budget.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare everything except combining the steak and sauce ahead of time. Just heat and combine when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta is a delightful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with tender steak and pasta, making it comforting yet elegant. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting seasonings to suit your taste preferences!