As the aroma of sizzling steak wafts through the kitchen, my heart skips a beat, knowing dinner will be a savory delight. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce—a comforting meal that brings a smile to every table. This dish is not just a quick 30-minute solution for busy weeknights; it’s also a customizable crowd-pleaser that can easily impress guests. Picture juicy, tender steak bites paired with creamy, garlic-infused pasta, creating a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that feels both indulgent and satisfying. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with this scrumptious recipe? Let’s dive in!
Why is this recipe a must-try?
Indulgent Comfort Food: This dish is the ultimate comfort food, blending rich flavors with a creamy Alfredo sauce that hugs every piece of shell pasta.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a lifesaver for busy nights when you crave something special without the wait.
Versatile Ingredients: With steak bites and customizable pasta shapes, this recipe allows you to experiment, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Impress guests with a restaurant-quality meal right from your kitchen! Pair it with an easy Garlic Butter Steak or a fresh salad for a complete experience.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic butter and tender steak creates an unforgettable taste that elevates weeknight dinners to gourmet status!
Steak Bites & Pasta Ingredients
• Get ready to whip up a delicious meal with these essential ingredients.
For the Pasta
- Shell Pasta – Provides a tender base that captures the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Salt – Essential for seasoning the pasta water and enhancing flavor.
For the Steak Bites
- Steak (Ribeye, Sirloin, or Filet Mignon) – Choose quality cuts for rich flavor and tenderness; cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Olive Oil – Ideal for searing steak, creating a delicious crust.
For the Creamy Alfredo Sauce
- Butter – Adds richness and depth to the sauce; feel free to reduce it for a lighter option.
- Garlic – Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth; substitute garlic powder if necessary.
- Heavy Cream – Forms the base of the Alfredo, yielding that luscious creaminess; half-and-half or whole milk can lighten it.
- Parmesan Cheese – Provides a salty, nutty flavor while helping to thicken the sauce; swap for Pecorino Romano if preferred.
- Black Pepper – Freshly ground for seasoning to elevate the flavors.
For Garnish
- Fresh Parsley (optional) – Adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish; you can skip it if needed.
Embrace the savory indulgence of Steak Bites & Pasta that’s sure to delight your taste buds!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Steak Bites & Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add shell pasta and cook for about 7-9 minutes or until al dente, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, reserve ½ cup of pasta water in a bowl, then drain the rest in a colander, letting the steam escape. Set the cooked shell pasta aside for later.
Step 2: Prepare the Steak Bites
While the pasta cooks, pat the steak pieces dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the steak bites to the pan, searing them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned. Transfer the steak to a plate and cover it loosely with foil to keep warm.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Next, pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly, and bring it to a gentle simmer for about 2-3 minutes. Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy, seasoning with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained shell pasta to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, tossing gently to coat every piece. If the sauce is too thick, gradually stir in the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the rich flavors of the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
To serve, plate a generous portion of the creamy shell pasta. Top it with the warm steak bites, drizzling any juices from the plate over the dish. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and added flavor, and enjoy your delicious Steak Bites & Pasta right away while it’s warm and comforting!
Make Ahead Options
These Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the steak bites and garlic butter Alfredo sauce up to 3 days in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their deliciousness. Simply sear the steak and let it cool before refrigerating to prevent overcooking, while the sauce can be made and kept ready to reheat. When it’s time to serve, simply cook the shell pasta, then warm the sauce and steak together in a skillet, tossing everything until heated through for a fantastic meal that tastes just as good as when freshly made!
Expert Tips for Steak Bites & Pasta
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Quality Beef Matters: Use high-quality steak cuts like Ribeye or Sirloin for delicious, tender bites that elevate your Steak Bites & Pasta.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Sear steak pieces in batches to prevent steaming, ensuring they’re evenly browned and packed with flavor.
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Adjust Seasoning Wisely: Season the steak generously with salt and pepper, but remember, you can always add more—taste as you go!
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Perfect Sauce Consistency: If your Alfredo sauce thickens too much, mix in reserved pasta water gradually to achieve the ideal creamy texture.
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Fresh Garlic Flavor: Sauté garlic until just fragrant; overcooking can lead to bitterness, so keep a close eye on it while it’s in the pan.
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Customize as You Wish: Don’t hesitate to add veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to your Steak Bites & Pasta for extra flavor and nutrition!
How to Store and Freeze Steak Bites & Pasta
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream to restore creaminess.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the steak bites and pasta separately in sealed bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding reserved pasta water or cream as needed to achieve your desired consistency. Enjoy your delicious Steak Bites & Pasta warm!
Steak Bites & Pasta Adaptations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe; your kitchen is your playground, waiting to be filled with hearty flavors!
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Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes to the pasta for a nutrient-packed twist. It adds color and nutrition, making every bite even more delightful.
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Pasta Shape Swap: Swap shell pasta for penne or fettuccine if you’re in the mood for a different texture. Each pasta shape offers a unique experience, allowing you to personalize your dish.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a hint of red pepper flakes or hot sauce for those who crave a bit of heat. This twist can awaken your taste buds and elevate the meal even further.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Utilize coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and Parmesan for a dairy-free version. Not only does this keep the flavors delicious, but it also caters to various dietary needs!
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Add Fresh Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs such as basil or chives in place of parsley to lend a vibrant freshness to the dish. These fragrant additions infuse new life into the creamy goodness.
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Nutty Finish: Sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or walnuts over the top for added crunch and richness. It gives your dish an elegant touch while enhancing the flavor profile.
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Decadent Mushroom Sauce: For a twist, consider adding sautéed mushrooms into the Alfredo sauce. Mushrooms bring an earthy richness that beautifully complements the steak and pasta.
For additional inspiration, why not serve this dish alongside an easy Garlic Butter Steak for a complete flavor-packed experience? Or, try a light side like a fresh Caesar salad to balance the creaminess. Each variation opens up a world of delectable possibilities, letting you make this meal your own!
What to Serve with Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce
Create a complete meal that delights the senses and satisfies every craving!
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Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted with a buttery, garlicky flavor, it’s a cozy addition that complements the rich pasta beautifully. Nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked garlic bread wafting through your home.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the indulgent pasta dish. A sprinkle of Parmesan ties it all together perfectly.
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Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears, lightly seasoned and roasted, add an elegant touch and a pop of color, enhancing the meal’s visual appeal. The slight char from roasting brings out their natural sweetness.
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Steamed Broccoli: A quick and nutritious option, the bright green florets not only add color but also a satisfying crunch that balances the creaminess of the pasta.
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Wine Pairing: A smooth, fruity red wine like Merlot or a crisp Chardonnay elevates the dining experience, harmonizing beautifully with the flavors of the steak and creamy sauce.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, indulge in a light, airy chocolate mousse. Its richness will cap off the meal perfectly, leaving everyone satisfied but wanting just a bit more.
Transform your dining experience with these delicious pairings that create unforgettable moments around the table!
Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! Choose steak cuts that are known for tenderness and flavor, such as Ribeye, Sirloin, or Filet Mignon. Look for marbling—those little streaks of fat running through the meat—this ensures a juicier bite. Also, ensure the pieces are cut into uniform size, about 1 to 1.5 inches, for even cooking.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftover Steak Bites and Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of heavy cream or reserved pasta water to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I freeze Steak Bites and Pasta?
Definitely! For freezing, it’s best to keep the steak bites and pasta separate. Place in sealed, airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. They can be kept for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove. Add a bit of cream or water to revive the sauce.
What should I do if the Alfredo sauce becomes too thick?
Oh, no worries! If your sauce thickens too much while cooking, simply stir in the reserved pasta water gradually. Start with a couple of tablespoons, mixing well, and continue adding until you reach your desired creamy consistency. Remember, you can always adjust, so add a little at a time!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Certainly! If you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, double-check any allergies related to dairy (from the cream and cheese) and gluten (from the pasta). For a gluten-free version, consider using gluten-free pasta. You can also reduce the butter and cream if you’re watching your fat intake, making this dish a bit lighter while still delicious.
Steak Bites & Pasta in Creamy Garlic Butter Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add shell pasta and cook for about 7-9 minutes or until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
- While the pasta cooks, pat the steak pieces dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak bites, searing for 2-3 minutes on each side.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, then whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Add the drained shell pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat. If the sauce thickens, stir in reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- To serve, plate the creamy shell pasta, top with warm steak bites, drizzle any juices over the dish, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.