Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender steak bites with creamy, cheesy pasta. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, delivering rich flavors and comforting textures that everyone will love. The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a savory sauce that clings to the shell pasta beautifully, making each bite deliciously satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce infuses the steak and pasta with rich, savory flavors that are hard to resist.
• Versatile: Perfect for family dinners, date nights, or gatherings with friends. It’s sure to impress anyone at your table.
• Comforting: The creamy texture of the sauce paired with tender steak bites provides a warm and comforting meal that feels indulgent.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the spices or add vegetables to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

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

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta efficiently while ensuring even cooking.
• Skillet: Perfect for searing steak bites and preparing the creamy sauce in one pan.
• Cooking spoon: Essential for mixing ingredients thoroughly without scratching your cookware.

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
• ½ 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 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.
3. If using crushed red pepper flakes, stir them in now.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Mixture

1. Reduce heat to medium-low.
2. Pour in heavy cream and stir 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: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add cooked pasta shells to the skillet.
2. Toss until coated in the creamy sauce; if too thick, mix in a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 6: Return Steak Bites

1. Gently return seared steak bites to the skillet.
2. Stir gently to combine everything; let it heat through for about 1-2 minutes.

Step 7: Serve Hot

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

Enjoy your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta as a comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving ideas to elevate this delicious meal.

Serve with a Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad pairs well, offering a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. Consider adding cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette.

Offer Garlic Bread on the Side

• Warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce. Toast slices of bread with butter and minced garlic for an easy side.

Pair with Steamed Vegetables

• Brightly colored steamed vegetables like broccoli or carrots add nutrition and color to your plate. Season them lightly with salt and pepper for added flavor.

Top with Extra Parmesan

• A sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan cheese enhances the richness of the dish. Just before serving, add a generous amount for a cheesy finish.

Add Fresh Herbs as Garnish

• Fresh herbs like basil or chives can be sprinkled on top for added flavor and visual appeal. They offer a fresh note that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

Perfecting your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta takes just a few simple adjustments. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Choose Quality Steak: Select tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye for juicy bites that sear beautifully.
• Don’t Overcook the Steak: Sear until just browned; overcooking can make it tough. Aim for medium-rare to medium for optimal tenderness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley will enhance flavors significantly compared to dried alternatives.
• Adjust the Creaminess: For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or use a plant-based cream alternative.
• Reserve Enough Pasta Water: This starchy water helps adjust sauce consistency without losing flavor when mixing in cooked pasta.
• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together nicely.

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

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites enhances your meal’s overall appeal and balance. Here are some great options:

1. Roasted Asparagus: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until tender, asparagus adds crunch and brightness.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing that complements the pasta.
3. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a hit; their smooth texture pairs well with steak bites.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini offers a smoky flavor that contrasts nicely with the rich pasta.
5. Caprese Skewers: These skewers of cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil are fresh and easy to prepare.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements savory dishes; grill or boil it for an easy summer side option.
7. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Filled with rice and veggies, they add color and are hearty enough to stand alongside this dish.
8. Vegetable Stir-Fry: Quick-cooked mixed vegetables tossed in soy sauce can add an Asian twist that brightens up your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be fun, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to avoid when preparing Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta.

• Skipping the pasta water: Always reserve some pasta water before draining. It helps adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
• Overcooking the steak: Sear the steak just until browned and cooked to your liking. Overcooked steak can become tough.
• Not measuring ingredients: Precise measurements ensure balanced flavors. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• Ignoring sauce thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until reaching your desired consistency.
• Rushing the garlic: Don’t rush sautéing garlic; it can burn quickly. Cook it just until fragrant for the best flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

• Place in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta.

How do I make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta spicier?

You can add more crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce during cooking to increase the heat level.

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

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

What other proteins work well with this recipe?

Besides beef, you can use chicken or turkey cut into bite-sized pieces for a delicious alternative.

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

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding veggies or different spices to suit your taste. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a weeknight favorite!