If you’re craving a dish that feels indulgent yet comes together in just about 30 minutes, then you’ll absolutely love this Steak Bites with Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce Recipe. Tender, juicy steak bites paired with perfectly cooked shell pasta swirled in a luxuriously creamy garlic butter Alfredo sauce—this recipe is everything comfort food dreams are made of. Each forkful bursts with rich flavor, making it a standout dinner sure to impress both family and friends. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a weekend celebration, this combo hits all the right notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to making the flavors pop in this dish. Each component is simple but essential to the balance of hearty, creamy, and garlicky goodness that defines the recipe.
- 12 oz steak (ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon): Choose a tender cut to ensure juicy, flavorful bites every time.
- 8 oz shell pasta: The shape holds the creamy sauce perfectly, making every bite satisfying.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Perfect for searing the steak to a beautiful crust without overpowering flavors.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and smoothness to the garlic butter Alfredo sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with that irresistible aromatic punch.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky texture that makes the Alfredo sauce so dreamy.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Brings sharp, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance every other ingredient.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of color and a touch of brightness to finish the dish.
How to Make Steak Bites with Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your shell pasta and cook until al dente, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Before draining, be sure to reserve half a cup of the pasta water. This starchy water is your secret weapon for adjusting the sauce consistency later, making the dish perfectly creamy and cohesive.
Step 2: Season and Prepare the Steak Bites
While the pasta cooks, pat your steak pieces dry with paper towels and season them generously with salt and black pepper. Drying the steak ensures better searing, so you get that crave-worthy caramelized crust when cooking. A well-seasoned steak is the foundation for this recipe’s big flavor.
Step 3: Sear the Steak Bites
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the steak bites in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear each side for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing them to develop a deep golden crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Once cooked, transfer the steak bites to a plate and set aside—this steak will be the star of the show!
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet to capture those pan flavors left from the steak. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute—don’t let it brown, as you want that sweet, mellow garlic flavor. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to combine all those delicious browned bits.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce with Parmesan
Gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts completely and the sauce thickens. The cheese not only adds richness but also gives the sauce its signature creamy texture. If the sauce feels too thick, slowly add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your perfect consistency.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Return the drained shell pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently in the Alfredo sauce to ensure every shell is coated in creamy garlic butter goodness. This step marries the pasta and sauce beautifully, making every bite luscious and flavorful.
Step 7: Serve with Steak Bites and Parsley
Plate the pasta and sauce first, then nestle the tender steak bites on top. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a vibrant pop of green and a subtle herbal note that cuts through the richness. Now, dig in and enjoy!
How to Serve Steak Bites with Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that brightens this dish visually and flavor-wise. You could also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan for cheesiness or even a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a gentle kick of heat that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Side Dishes
Because this recipe is pleasantly rich and filling, pairing it with a light side dish works wonderfully. Consider a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli to add some freshness and crunch to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pasta in large shallow bowls and arrange the steak bites elegantly on top for a restaurant-quality feel. For a fun twist, offer garlic bread on the side to soak up every last drop of that luscious sauce. A drizzle of truffle oil over the finished plate can elevate this dish into something truly special for entertaining guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce might thicken after cooling; don’t worry, it will loosen up with gentle reheating.
Freezing
While the steak bites and sauce are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the pasta portion separately in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and add freshly cooked steak bites to retain the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce as needed. This will help restore the sauce’s silky texture while keeping the steak bites tender.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta shape for this recipe?
Absolutely! While shell pasta’s hollow shape is perfect for capturing the sauce, you can use penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine to suit your preference or pantry availability.
What’s the best cut of steak for this dish?
Ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon are ideal because they’re tender and flavorful. These cuts sear well and remain juicy, which is important for the steak bites experience.
Can I make the sauce dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free alternative for the Parmesan, but the sauce’s traditional creaminess and flavor will differ slightly.
How do I prevent the steak bites from becoming tough?
Make sure to pat the steak dry before seasoning, avoid overcrowding the pan when searing, and cook them quickly on high heat. Overcooking is the main cause of toughness, so aim for a nice sear while keeping the inside tender.
Is it possible to prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can cook the pasta and make the sauce a day ahead, then store them separately. Reheat gently and add freshly seared steak bites just before serving for the freshest texture.
Final Thoughts
This Steak Bites with Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce Recipe is a deliciously simple way to bring some luxury to your dinner table without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender steak, rich sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta is pure comfort food magic. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a cherished favorite in your recipe rotation!
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Steak Bites with Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This decadent Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce recipe combines tender, juicy steak pieces with perfectly cooked shell pasta, all enveloped in a rich and creamy garlic butter Alfredo sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this comforting dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests.
Ingredients
Steak and Pasta
- 12 oz steak (ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz shell pasta
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Sauce and Garnish
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shell pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water to adjust the sauce later.
- Season Steak Bites: While the pasta cooks, season the bite-sized steak pieces generously with salt and black pepper. Pat dry with a paper towel to ensure a good sear.
- Sear Steak Bites: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak bites and sear each side for 2–3 minutes until browned but still tender. Remove steak from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: Reduce the heat to medium-low in the same skillet. Add butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn it.
- Make Alfredo Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked shell pasta to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat evenly, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs thinning to reach desired consistency.
- Serve: Plate the creamy pasta and top with the seared steak bites. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- Use a high-quality Parmesan cheese for best flavor and melting quality.
- Choose tender cuts of steak like ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon to ensure tenderness in bite-sized pieces.
- Be careful not to overcook the steak bites; they should be seared and juicy.
- Reserve pasta water is key to adjusting sauce thickness without diluting flavor.
- This dish pairs well with a light green salad or steamed vegetables for added freshness.
