Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender steak pieces with rich, creamy sauce and pasta shells. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce elevates the steak bites, making each bite a delicious experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a gourmet meal ready in just 25 minutes.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and spices creates a rich flavor that will impress your family and friends.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, this recipe suits any occasion.
• Comfort Food Twist: Creamy pasta combined with hearty steak bites makes for an irresistible comfort food experience.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the spices or add vegetables to match your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything in place will make preparing Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta a breeze.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding for perfect al dente texture.
• Skillet: A non-stick skillet allows for easy searing of the steak and prevents sticking during cooking.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients gently to avoid breaking up the steak pieces while combining flavors.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are critical for achieving the best flavor balance in the dish.

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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
• ¾ 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 medium pasta shells and cook until just al dente.
3. Reserve ¾ cup of pasta water before draining the shells, then set them 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 3-5 minutes, turning until browned and cooked to your liking.
4. Transfer steak bites 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 desired, stir in crushed red pepper flakes at this stage.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low; 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 Together

1. Add cooked pasta shells to the skillet, tossing until well coated in the creamy sauce.
2. If the sauce appears too thick, mix in a splash of reserved pasta water.
3. Return seared steak bites to the skillet; stir gently to combine.
4. Allow everything to heat through for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

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

Enjoy your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta as a delicious meal that’s sure to please!

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 creative serving suggestions to elevate this tasty meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil: Add fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the garlic and cheese.

Add a Zesty Salad

• Garden salad: A simple mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
• Caesar salad: The crispness of romaine lettuce and creamy dressing pairs well with the steak bites.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Garlic bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Baguette slices: Crisp baguette slices are perfect for scooping up the pasta and steak bites.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Personal servings: Present each portion in individual bowls for a cozy, restaurant-style experience.
• Layering: Create layers of pasta and steak for an appealing visual presentation.

How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

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

• Use high-quality steak: Opt for tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook it until just al dente to ensure it maintains its shape when mixed with the sauce.
• Adjust creaminess: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer. For a lighter sauce, add more reserved pasta water gradually.
• Taste as you go: Season during cooking to achieve your desired flavor balance, especially before adding cheese.
• Let flavors meld: Allow the dish to sit briefly before serving so all the flavors can combine beautifully.

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

Complement your meal with delicious side dishes that enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Roasted Vegetables: Mixed seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized. A colorful addition that adds nutrients.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta while adding vitamins.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic pair wonderfully with steak flavors.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing palate cleanser.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection offer a smoky flavor that complements the main dish.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a crispy texture and refreshing taste alongside rich pasta dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta can be straightforward, but there are a few common missteps that can lead to less-than-perfect results.

• Overcooking the Steak: Searing the steak for too long can make it tough. Aim for a nice brown crust while keeping it tender inside. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
• Neglecting the Pasta Water: Forgetting to reserve pasta water can lead to a sauce that’s too thick. Always set aside some before draining your pasta for the perfect consistency.
• Not Measuring Ingredients: Eyeballing ingredients, especially seasonings, can result in an imbalanced flavor. Use measuring spoons and cups for accuracy.
• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Dismissing fresh parsley or other herbs will diminish flavor. Always garnish with fresh herbs for a burst of freshness and color.
• Using Cold Cream: Adding cold cream directly into the pan can shock your sauce and affect texture. Let it come to room temperature before using.

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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

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish and cover with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between, until warm. Add a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding reserved pasta water as necessary to achieve desired creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute medium shells with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.

What cut of steak is best for steak bites?

Tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye work best for steak bites due to their flavor and tenderness when cooked quickly.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or consider using spicy paprika.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Absolutely! Swap out steak for sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for the creamy sauce.

Final Thoughts

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