Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk and cream until smooth. Stir in Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until sauce is creamy and thick. Toss pasta shells into the sauce, coating them well. Keep warm.
3. Sear the Steak Bites
Season steak cubes with paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak bites in a single layer, searing each side for 2–3 minutes until browned and cooked to your liking. Add minced garlic during the last minute of cooking, stirring until fragrant.
4. Plate and Garnish
Serve steak bites alongside creamy Parmesan shells. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Tips and Variations
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Add veggies: Stir spinach, mushrooms, or peas into the pasta for extra nutrition.
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Cheese swap: Use Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a flavor twist.
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Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a little heat.
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Meal prep idea: Store steak and pasta separately to keep textures perfect when reheating.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shells is the kind of dinner that makes any night feel like a celebration. It’s rich, filling, and layered with flavor, yet surprisingly simple to prepare. With tender steak and creamy pasta side by side, you don’t need anything else to make the meal complete — just a fork, an appetite, and maybe a slice of bread to soak up every last bit of sauce.
