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
Scale
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.
