Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta is a delightful dish perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines tender steak bites with creamy pasta, delivering rich flavors that will impress your family and friends. The unique blend of garlic and Parmesan creates a comforting sauce that envelops the pasta shells, making every bite irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce pairs perfectly with steak and pasta, resulting in a mouthwatering meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use different types of steak or substitute with chicken or turkey for variety.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe serves multiple people, making it great for family gatherings or dinner parties.
• Comfort Food: The richness of the sauce combined with tender steak bites offers a satisfying experience.

Tools and Preparation

To make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta successfully, you’ll need a few essential tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta efficiently while allowing enough space for it to cook evenly.
• Skillet: Perfect for searing the steak and preparing the creamy sauce in one pan, enhancing flavor.

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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
• ½ 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
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ¼ 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. Add the medium pasta shells and cook until just al dente.
3. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining, then set the cooked pasta aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the steak pieces with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
3. Sear the steak 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 unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. If using red pepper flakes, stir them in now.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and pour in heavy cream.
4. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
5. Whisk until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened (about 2–3 minutes).

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet and toss until coated in the creamy sauce.
2. If the sauce is too thick, mix in a splash of reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
3. Return steak bites to the skillet and stir gently to combine everything.
4. Let everything heat through for about 1–2 minutes.

Step 5: Serve Your Dish

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

With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can enjoy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta any night of the week!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

Serving Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta is all about enhancing the dish’s creamy, savory flavors while providing a delightful eating experience. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with a tangy Caesar dressing and croutons balances the creamy texture of the steak bites.

Add a Crunchy Bread Option

• Garlic Bread: Toasted bread infused with garlic butter makes for an excellent side to soak up any leftover sauce.
• Breadsticks: Soft, warm breadsticks complement the meal perfectly and provide a satisfying crunch.

Enhance with Seasonal Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients, offering a great contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Roasted Asparagus: Seasoned asparagus can be roasted until tender, bringing out its natural sweetness.

How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

To achieve the best results when making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta, consider these helpful tips.

• Use high-quality steak: Choosing fresh, well-marbled steak will enhance the flavor and tenderness of your dish.
• Avoid overcooking pasta: Cook pasta shells just until al dente for the perfect texture that holds up in the sauce.
• Whisk sauce thoroughly: Ensure a smooth sauce by whisking it continuously while adding ingredients like cream and cheese.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Always taste your dish before serving; you can add more salt or pepper if needed.
• Reserve pasta water wisely: The starchy pasta water can help adjust sauce thickness without diluting flavor.
• Garnish generously: Adding fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese right before serving boosts both flavor and presentation.

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

Complementing your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta is easy when you choose the right side dishes. Here are some tasty options to consider.

1. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these potatoes provide a satisfying texture alongside your pasta.
2. Sautéed Green Beans: Quick sautéed green beans tossed in olive oil offer a bright flavor that contrasts beautifully with creamy dishes.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil create a refreshing side that enhances the richness of your meal.
4. Zucchini Noodles: Light and healthy zucchini noodles can serve as an alternative or additional side that pairs well without adding heaviness.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a burst of freshness; grill or boil it for an easy yet flavorful side option.
6. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made from cabbage and carrots provides a tangy balance against creamy pasta flavors.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa offer a hearty side packed with flavor that complements steak bites perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make errors in the kitchen, especially with new recipes. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the steak and pasta can lead to bland flavors. Always season liberally for the best taste.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta shells too long will make them mushy. Follow package instructions and aim for al dente.
• Not resting the steak: Cutting into steak immediately after cooking can cause juices to run out. Let it rest to keep it juicy and tender.
• Ignoring sauce consistency: If your sauce is too thick or thin, adjust it with reserved pasta water. This helps achieve the perfect creamy texture.
• Rushing the cooking process: Take your time while searing steak and making sauce. Quick cooking can result in unevenly cooked ingredients.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the mixture has cooled completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

• Freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warm. Cover to retain moisture.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of cream or 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 a different type of meat?

Yes! You can substitute chicken, beef, lamb, or turkey based on your preference.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace steak with sautéed mushrooms or vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

What is the best way to serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I store leftovers of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta is not just delicious but also versatile. You can customize this recipe by adding seasonal vegetables or using different types of cheese. We encourage you to try this easy weeknight dinner that’s sure to impress!