Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shells: Comfort Food with a Gourmet Twist

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Steak Bites:

• 1 lb (450 g) sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Creamy Parmesan Shells:

• 8 oz (225 g) pasta shells
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a subtle kick)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water for the sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Steak Bites

1. Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels. This ensures a better sear.
2. Season generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the steak bites in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
5. Reduce the heat to medium, add the butter and minced garlic, and toss the steak bites in the garlic butter for 1–2 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

1. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Allow it to simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Gradually add the parmesan cheese while stirring. Continue until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
6. Toss the cooked pasta shells in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Plate the creamy parmesan shells as the base.
2. Top with the garlic butter steak bites.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley for color and a hint of freshness.
4. Optional: drizzle extra garlic butter from the steak pan over the dish for maximum flavor.

Tips for Perfection

• Steak Choice: Ribeye gives the richest flavor, while sirloin is leaner and more budget-friendly.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Searing requires space to develop a golden crust. Cook in batches if needed.
• Cheese Sauce: Use freshly grated parmesan rather than pre-shredded for a creamier, less grainy texture.
• Garlic Butter Boost: For an extra gourmet touch, add a splash of white wine to the garlic butter while tossing the steak.

Why This Dish Works

The magic of this dish lies in the contrast and harmony of flavors and textures: the tender, savory steak bites infused with garlic butter, paired with pasta shells coated in a rich parmesan sauce. Each bite delivers comfort and indulgence, yet the fresh parsley and subtle seasonings elevate it to gourmet status.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shells hits the perfect balance between everyday comfort food and a special, restaurant-quality meal.

If you want, I can also create a shortcut version with a one-pan technique that saves time but keeps the flavors just as rich—perfect for busy weeknights. Do you want me to do that?