Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells – A Decadent Meal in One!
If you’re looking for a delicious, comforting dinner that’s packed with flavor and easy to make, Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells is the perfect choice. Tender steak bites sautéed in rich garlic butter paired with creamy Parmesan shells create a truly indulgent meal that everyone will love. Perfect for weeknights, special occasions, or when you simply want to treat yourself to something amazing, this dish is both satisfying and mouthwatering!
Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells
- Tender, Flavorful Steak Bites: The garlic butter coating on the steak bites adds incredible flavor and juiciness, making each bite irresistible.
- Creamy Parmesan Shells: The creamy Parmesan sauce is rich, cheesy, and perfectly complements the steak bites.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights without compromising on flavor.
- One-Pan Meal: The entire dish is made in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
- Perfect Balance of Protein & Carbs: A hearty, well-rounded meal that includes both the savory steak and comforting pasta.
Ingredients
for Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 lb steak (ribeye, sirloin, or your choice) – Cut into bite-sized cubes.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For searing the steak.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced) – For that rich garlic flavor.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter – Adds richness to the steak bites.
- Salt and pepper – To taste.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped) – For garnish and freshness.
For the Creamy Parmesan Shells:
- 1 lb large pasta shells – Cooked according to package instructions.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – For creating the creamy sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced) – For flavor in the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream – For a smooth, velvety sauce.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – For a rich, cheesy sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper – For a little seasoning.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped) – For garnish.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells
Step 1: Prepare the Steak Bites
- Season the Steak: Cut the steak into bite-sized cubes and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak bites to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Add Garlic and Butter: Once the steak is cooked, add the minced garlic and butter to the pan. Stir everything together, allowing the garlic to cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Remove the skillet from heat and set the steak bites aside, keeping them warm.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Parmesan Shells
- Cook the Pasta: While the steak is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet used for the steak, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Create the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue cooking until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta shells to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce. Let it simmer for another 2 minutes to combine all the flavors.
Step 3: Serve the Dish
- Assemble the Dish: Spoon the creamy Parmesan shells onto plates and top with the garlic butter steak bites.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley for color and a fresh flavor boost.
- Serve & Enjoy: Serve immediately, and enjoy this indulgent meal!
Tips for the Perfect Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells
- Use a High-Quality Steak: Choose a tender cut of beef like ribeye or sirloin for the best results. The better the steak, the more flavorful your bites will be.
- Don’t Overcook the Steak: For the juiciest steak bites, don’t overcook them. They should be browned on the outside and tender on the inside.
- Customize the Sauce: Feel free to add garlic powder, onion powder, or even a bit of crushed red pepper to the creamy Parmesan sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
- Add Veggies: You can add some spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to the pasta for extra nutrients and color. Homemade Samoas Girl Scout Cookies
- Make It a Meal Prep Option: This dish stores well in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Steak?
Yes, you can use any cut of steak you prefer, but ribeye, sirloin, and flank steak work particularly well for this recipe. Tender cuts are best since they cook quickly and stay juicy.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, to make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta shells. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the creamy Parmesan sauce in advance, but it’s best to add the pasta and steak fresh for the most flavorful experience.
How Can I Make the Creamy Parmesan Shells Lighter?
To lighten up the creamy sauce, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk. However, this may make the sauce less thick and rich. Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms Bok Choy
Why You Should Try Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells
This Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells recipe is the epitome of comfort food with a sophisticated twist. The tender steak bites and creamy Parmesan pasta combine for a meal that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a regular weeknight, this dish will impress everyone at the table with its incredible flavors and textures.