Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells
Craving something that feels indulgent but comes together effortlessly? Meet your new favorite: succulent steak bites doused in garlic‑butter sauce, alongside irresistibly creamy Parmesan‑coated pasta shells. Whether it’s a cozy date night or a family dinner, this hearty dish is ready in under an hour and always hits the spot.
Why This Recipe Shines
- Restaurant-level comfort: Juicy steak meets creamy pasta in a mouthwatering flavor combo.
- Fast and simple: Minimal prep, one-pan multitasking means dinner’s on the table quickly.
- Highly adaptable: Swap steak for chicken or shrimp, toss in veggies, or switch cheeses to suit your taste.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Steak Bites
- 1 lb sirloin (or ribeye), cut into bite-size pieces
- 3–4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp each dried thyme & rosemary (optional, for herb depth)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika or black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional boost of umami)
For the Creamy Parmesan Shells
- 8 oz pasta shells (conchiglie)
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water; cook shells al dente per package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sear the Steak Bites: Heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add steak pieces, season with salt and pepper, and sear 3–4 minutes till browned. Remove and set aside.
- Build the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt remaining butter. Stir in minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for ~1 min until fragrant.
- Create the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: In a clean saucepan or same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic, then heavy cream; simmer gently. Stir in Parmesan until smooth and glossy.
- Combine Everything: Toss pasta shells in the creamy sauce. Add steak bites back, gently melding flavors. Let warm through.
- Serve: Plate, garnish with parsley (and more Parmesan if desired), and enjoy with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Chef’s Corner: Tips & Tricks
- Let it rest: Rest steak 3–5 minutes post-sear to keep it juicy.
- Melt magic: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and delivers richer flavor than pre-shredded cheese.
- Season carefully: Taste your creamy sauce before combining and tweak with salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
- Bring brightness: A sprinkle of lemon zest or red pepper flakes adds a lively contrast to the richness.
Health & Safety Considerations
- Choose lean cuts of steak for better nutrition.
- Substitute half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream to reduce fat.
- Ensure steak reaches safe internal doneness—ideally 57–60 °C (135 °F) for medium-rare.
- Leftovers stay fresh airtight in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of cream.
Nutrition Snapshot (Per Serving; recipe serves ~4)
| Component | Estimated Amount | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Sirloin Steak (4 oz) | ~26 g protein | Provides high-quality lean protein. |
| Butter (2 tbsp) | ~22 g fat | Contributes rich flavor—use moderately. |
| Heavy Cream (¼ cup) | ~22 g fat, 3 g protein | Creates smooth texture; lighter options available. |
| Parmesan Cheese (¼ cup) | ~270 mg calcium | Supports bone health and savory depth. |
| Pasta Shells (2 oz dry) | ~40 g carbohydrates | Base of energy-providing carbs; swap whole-grain for fiber. |
FAQs
- Can I use a different pasta shape? Absolutely—penne, fusilli, or ziti work fabulously too.
- Out of heavy cream—what’s next best? Try half‑and‑half or combine whole milk with a tablespoon of butter.
- How to store leftovers? Fridge: airtight, up to 3–4 days. Reheat over low heat, adding milk or cream to refresh the sauce.
- Can I make this gluten-free? Yes—just use gluten-free pasta and check that the cheese is certified gluten-free.
- Can I sneak in veggies? Definitely—sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted peppers fold in beautifully.
- What about a spicy twist? Red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños add great heat.
- Can I make the steak leftover-friendly? Yes—cook steak in advance and add to warm sauce just before serving to preserve texture.
- How many servings does it yield? Makes approximately 4 modest servings; double for a crowd.
Variations & Serving Ideas
- Cheese swap: Try Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or a mozzarella mix for different textures.
- Herb-forward twist: Fresh rosemary or thyme elevate herbaceous notes.
- Protein swaps: Substitute steak with chicken, shrimp, or plant-based protein.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Pair with garlic bread or a fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette for balance.
- Enjoy with a bold red like Cabernet Sauvignon, or a creamy Chardonnay.
- Serve family‑style for sharing, or portion into bowls for individual servings.
Related Recipes from Our Kitchen
Explore more comfort classics on Fresh Toner Hungary:
- One‑Pot Beef Stroganoff – creamy, meaty, and hassle‑free.
- Ultimate Garlic Shrimp Pasta – garlicky seafood indulgence.
With juicy steak bites, rich garlic butter, and creamy Parmesan shells, this dish transforms ordinary ingredients into a comfort food masterpiece—ready in under an hour. Try it tonight and savor the flavor! 😍😋
