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. This recipe combines tender steak bites with creamy, flavorful shell pasta for a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress with its rich flavors and easy preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 25 minutes of total time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and tender steak creates an irresistible taste experience.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or pair it with sides like salad or bread for a complete meal.
• Comfort Food Appeal: This dish embodies classic comfort food, making it a favorite for all ages.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice levels or add your favorite vegetables for extra nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows for even cooking and helps achieve that perfect sear on the steak.
• Pot: A large pot is essential for boiling pasta efficiently without overcrowding.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure the best balance of flavors in your sauce and pasta.

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 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 occasionally until browned and cooked to your liking.
4. Transfer the steak to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. If using crushed 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 Pasta and Steak

1. Add cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce.
2. Toss until completely coated; if too thick, mix in some reserved pasta water as needed.
3. Gently return steak bites to the skillet and stir to combine everything evenly.
4. Allow everything to heat through together for about 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Serve

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

Enjoy your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta! This dish not only satisfies your hunger but also delights your taste buds with every bite!

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 suggestions that will complement this delicious meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
• Grated Parmesan: Offer extra grated Parmesan on the side for cheese lovers who want more flavor.

Accompany with a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crisp greens and creamy dressing contrast nicely with the richness of the pasta.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a refreshing balance to the hearty steak bites.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, garlic bread adds a crunchy texture.
• Baguette Slices: Serve toasted baguette slices for an elegant touch that pairs well with the dish.

How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

To ensure your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use High-Quality Beef: Opt for tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye for juicy steak bites.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook pasta shells until just al dente, as they will continue to cook in the sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to tweak spices and seasonings according to your preference for heat or flavor depth.
• Incorporate Vegetables: Add spinach or broccoli for extra nutrients and color in your pasta dish.
• Reserve Pasta Water Wisely: Use reserved pasta water sparingly to achieve the desired sauce consistency without making it too watery.

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

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts seasoned with garlic make a flavorful side.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a fresh green element that enhances the meal’s look and flavor.
3. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender complements the rich pasta beautifully.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, balancing out the creamy pasta.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes baked until soft add sweetness and nutrition alongside the savory dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta, it’s easy to overlook certain details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the pasta shells for too long can make them mushy. Aim for al dente, as they will continue cooking in the sauce.
• Not Seasoning the Steak: Skipping seasoning can lead to bland steak bites. Always season your meat well before cooking to enhance flavor.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold cream or butter can lead to a lumpy sauce. Let these ingredients sit at room temperature before use for a smoother texture.
• Rushing the Sauce: Cooking the sauce too quickly can prevent it from thickening properly. Allow it time to simmer on low heat for the best consistency.
• Forgetting Reserved Pasta Water: This starchy water is crucial for adjusting sauce thickness. Always keep some aside before draining your pasta.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1 minute, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta.

Can I use other types of pasta?

You can easily substitute any pasta shape you prefer! Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor!

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can replace heavy cream with whole milk or plant-based alternatives, but keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the steak bites and sauce ahead of time. Just combine everything when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta is a delightful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. Its creamy texture and savory flavors make it a favorite among many. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to please!