Cajun Steak Bites with Cheesy Garlic Shell Pasta Skillet

Savor the rich, smoky flavors of tender Cajun-spiced steak bites paired with creamy garlic shell pasta. This skillet meal brings together juicy beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a cheesy sauce that clings to every bite. It’s the ultimate comfort food with a bold twist.
What makes this dish irresistible is the harmony of textures and flavors—the charred edges of the steak, the smooth creaminess of the sauce, and the gentle heat from the Cajun spices. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Cajun Steak Bites with Cheesy Garlic Shell Pasta Skillet
It’s quick to make, hearty enough to satisfy big appetites, and fancy enough for special occasions. The Cajun seasoning adds depth, while the cheesy garlic sauce balances it with indulgent creaminess.
Ingredients for Cajun Steak Bites with Cheesy Garlic Shell Pasta Skillet
A dish like this calls for fresh, flavorful, and quality ingredients. The steak needs to be juicy and well-seasoned, while the pasta should be creamy and infused with garlicky goodness.
- Sirloin steak – Tender and flavorful, perfect for quick searing.
- Cajun seasoning – Adds that bold, smoky, and spicy flavor.
- Small pasta shells – Their shape holds the cheesy garlic sauce beautifully.
- Garlic cloves – Fresh garlic infuses the dish with aromatic depth.
- Butter – Adds richness and helps brown the steak bites.
- Heavy cream – Creates a silky, indulgent sauce.
- Shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into the sauce for a creamy, cheesy base.
- Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, salty layer of flavor.
- Fresh parsley – Brightens the dish and adds color.


How To Make the Cajun Steak Bites with Cheesy Garlic Shell Pasta Skillet
Step 1: Prepare the steak
Pat the sirloin dry and cut it into bite-sized cubes. Season generously with Cajun seasoning.
Step 2: Sear the steak bites
Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each side for 2–3 minutes until browned but still juicy. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the pasta
Boil the pasta shells in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Make the cheesy garlic sauce
In the same skillet, melt more butter and sauté minced garlic. Add heavy cream, simmer briefly, then stir in cheddar and Parmesan until smooth.
Step 5: Combine everything
Toss the pasta in the sauce, then return the steak bites to the skillet. Mix gently.
Step 6: Serve and garnish
Sprinkle with parsley and extra Cajun seasoning if desired.
Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking
Avoid overcooking the steak bites; they cook fast. Let the skillet heat properly before searing for the best crust. Be cautious with Cajun seasoning so it doesn’t overpower the sauce.
Serving and Storing Cajun Steak Bites with Cheesy Garlic Shell Pasta Skillet
Feeds about 4 people. Serve straight from the skillet or plate individually. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of cream.
What to Serve With Cajun Steak Bites with Cheesy Garlic Shell Pasta Skillet?
Garlic bread
Green salad
Roasted vegetables
Grilled corn on the cob
Sautéed mushrooms
Chilled white wine
Pickled jalapeños
Fresh fruit salad
Want More Steak and Pasta Ideas?
• Garlic Butter Steak Bites Creamy Alfredo Tortellini
• Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo
• Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
Save This Recipe For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board and come back to it anytime.
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Share your variations in the comments!
Explore more skillet and pasta creations on Nina Dishes on Pinterest.
Conclusion
This Cajun Steak Bites with Cheesy Garlic Shell Pasta Skillet is bold, creamy, and satisfying. Perfect for weeknights or gatherings, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.
Print
Cajun Steak Bites with Cheesy Garlic Shell Pasta Skillet
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Cajun Steak Bites with Cheesy Garlic Shell Pasta Skillet recipe combines tender, juicy Cajun-seasoned steak bites with creamy, garlicky shell pasta. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s a bold, comforting skillet meal that’s quick to prepare and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
450g sirloin steak
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
250g small pasta shells
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 tbsp butter
240ml heavy cream
120g shredded cheddar cheese
50g grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Pat the sirloin steak dry and cut into bite-sized cubes. Season generously with Cajun seasoning.
2. Heat 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak bites for 2–3 minutes per side until browned but still juicy. Remove and set aside.
3. In a separate pot, cook the pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. In the same skillet used for the steak, melt 1 tbsp butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for 1–2 minutes before adding cheddar and Parmesan. Stir until the sauce is smooth.
6. Toss the cooked pasta shells in the sauce, then return the steak bites to the skillet and mix gently.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
This recipe works well with ribeye or strip steak if you prefer a richer cut.
For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Cajun seasoning.
If reheating leftovers, add a splash of cream to restore the sauce’s texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American, Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 135mg