Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta is the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this recipe combines tender steak bites and creamy pasta in a delightful way. The rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan create an irresistible sauce that clings to the shells, making every bite a treat. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• Comforting Flavors: The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce adds a rich flavor that everyone will love.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap the steak for chicken or turkey if you prefer.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s hearty enough to satisfy even the hungriest diners while still being elegant.
• One-Pot Wonder: With minimal cleanup required, you’ll spend more time enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding, ensuring perfect texture.
• Large skillet: Provides ample space to sear steak bites properly while allowing sauce ingredients to meld beautifully.
• Wooden spoon: Great for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.

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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
• 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
• Cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 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

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta shells and cook until just al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season steak pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear for about 4-5 minutes, turning until browned and cooked to your liking. Transfer steak to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. If desired, stir in red pepper flakes now.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Mixture

Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour in heavy cream and stir in grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet, tossing until well coated in the creamy sauce. If necessary, mix in a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.

Step 6: Return Steak to Skillet

Gently return steak bites to the skillet and stir to combine everything well. Allow everything to heat through for about 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and additional grated Parmesan before serving hot. Enjoy your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta!

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 flavorful meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley on top adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil or Thyme: These herbs can introduce new flavors that complement the creamy sauce.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides a crisp contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the steak bites.

Serve with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, garlic bread adds a crunchy texture.
• Crusty Baguette: A simple baguette can be sliced and served warm alongside the dish.

Offer Extra Cheese

• Parmesan Shavings: Serve additional grated Parmesan on the side for cheese lovers to sprinkle as desired.
• Mozzarella Pearls: Adding mozzarella pearls can give a delightful chewiness to each bite.

How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

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

• Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of your dish greatly depends on the quality of your steak and cheese.
• Don’t overcook the steak: Sear until browned but still tender; this ensures juicy bites that complement the creamy sauce.
• Reserve enough pasta water: This starchy water helps adjust sauce consistency without diluting flavor, so hold onto more than you think you’ll need.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add more spices like Italian seasoning or onion powder for added depth in flavor.
• Keep an eye on sauce consistency: If it thickens too much, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess.

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

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green and nutritious, steamed broccoli adds color and crunch to your plate.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Tossed in olive oil and seasoned, roasted asparagus offers a flavorful contrast.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that complements the main dish.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly grilled zucchini brings out its natural sweetness while providing a healthy option alongside the pasta.
5. Caramelized Carrots: Sweet caramelized carrots add depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness to balance the savory steak bites.
6. Coleslaw: A light coleslaw made from cabbage and carrots offers crunch and tanginess, perfect for cutting through the creaminess of the pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Bold seasoning: Not properly seasoning your steak can lead to bland flavors. Be generous with salt, pepper, and paprika before cooking.
• Bold pasta overcooking: Overcooking the pasta will ruin its texture. Cook until just al dente and reserve some pasta water for the sauce.
• Bold thick sauce: If your creamy sauce is too thick, it may not coat the pasta well. Always save some reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency as needed.
• Bold neglecting parsley: Forgetting to add fresh parsley at the end takes away freshness from the dish. Sprinkle it on just before serving for an extra flavor boost.
• Bold rushing steak cooking: Cooking steak too quickly can result in tough bites. Ensure you sear it properly until browned and cooked to your preference.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to prevent moisture loss.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

• Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
• Containers: Place in freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring as much air as possible is removed.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about this recipe, here are some commonly asked questions.

Can I use a different type of meat in Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta?

Yes! You can substitute the steak with chicken, turkey, or lamb according to your preference.

How do I adjust the creaminess of my sauce?

If you want a creamier sauce, add more heavy cream gradually while whisking until you reach your desired consistency.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can replace the steak with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

What can I serve alongside Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta?

A simple side salad or steamed vegetables pairs nicely with this dish, balancing its richness.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Shell Pasta is not only rich and flavorful but also quick enough for a weeknight dinner. You can customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, making it even more wholesome. Give this recipe a try; your family will love it!