Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce

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From the moment I first tossed juicy steak bites with shell pasta and smothered them in a rich garlic butter Alfredo sauce, I knew I had discovered something special. This isn’t just another dinner idea; it’s a comforting, flavor-loaded dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to make. It’s the kind of recipe that leaves everyone at the table speechless, with only the sound of clinking forks and satisfied sighs.

I was inspired to create this meal after a long day when I wanted something hearty but quick. The aroma of sizzling steak in butter mingled with garlic hit me like a warm embrace. Add in the creamy Alfredo, and the whole kitchen transformed into a cozy little bistro. I didn’t even need a side dish; it was just that satisfying.

Over time, I’ve fine-tuned this recipe to make it weeknight-friendly while still feeling like a treat. Shell pasta catches every bit of that luscious sauce, and the steak, with its crispy edges and tender center, adds a depth of flavor that’s unforgettable. If you enjoy dishes like Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts or One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta, this will be right up your alley.

Why You’ll Love This Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce

This dish brings together the bold flavor of seared steak and the richness of a homemade Alfredo sauce, making it a standout meal without requiring fancy ingredients. It’s quick enough for busy evenings yet impressive enough for a dinner date at home. The shell pasta works beautifully here, capturing all that sauce in each bite. Plus, it pairs easily with a crisp salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal. If you’re looking for something comforting, creamy, and irresistibly savory, this is your next go-to recipe.

Ingredients

Steak: Tender, juicy bites of steak are the star of this dish. I prefer sirloin or ribeye for their flavor and tenderness, but any cut you like works well.

Shell Pasta: The shell shape holds onto the creamy Alfredo sauce beautifully, making every bite rich and satisfying.

Butter: A good amount of butter gives the garlic sauce its velvety texture and enhances the steak’s sear.

Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the sauce with its unmistakable aroma and flavor.

Heavy Cream: This is the base of our Alfredo sauce, providing richness and a creamy consistency.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan melts into the sauce, giving it that classic Alfredo taste.

Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring out the natural flavors in the steak and sauce.

Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and a touch of brightness to the finished dish.

How to Make Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce

Step 1: Sear the Steak Bites

Cut your steak into bite-sized pieces and season generously with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add butter, and sear the steak bites until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the steak is searing, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the shell pasta until al dente, then drain and reserve some pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet used for the steak, melt more butter and add the minced garlic. Cook until fragrant but not browned, then pour in the heavy cream. Let it simmer and reduce slightly.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and continue to cook until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce gets too thick.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the steak bites to the skillet and add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated and the steak is heated through. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re out of shell pasta, feel free to use penne, rotini, or fettuccine. Any shape that can hold onto that creamy Alfredo sauce will do just fine. For a lighter take, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or even a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt. Want to go gluten-free? Choose your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Steak isn’t the only protein that works here. Grilled chicken or shrimp make excellent substitutes and still pair beautifully with the garlic butter Alfredo. You could also go vegetarian by tossing in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted cauliflower for a hearty, meatless version.

To change up the flavor profile, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or mixing in a teaspoon of Italian seasoning to deepen the savory notes. And for extra richness, a dollop of cream cheese whisked into the sauce does wonders.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This pasta dish is a complete comfort meal on its own, but it shines even brighter with a few accompaniments. I like serving it with a simple Caesar or mixed greens salad to balance out the creaminess. A crusty baguette or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of that velvety sauce.

For drinks, a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a light red like Pinot Noir complements the creamy texture and steak beautifully. And if you’re cooking for a crowd, doubling the recipe and serving family-style makes for a show-stopping centerpiece.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pasta may absorb some of the sauce, so when reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up.

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, or microwave in short intervals, adding a bit of liquid as needed to maintain creaminess. I don’t recommend freezing this dish, as the dairy-based sauce can separate.

FAQs

Can I make Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce ahead of time?

You can make parts of it ahead. Cook the steak and pasta, and store them separately. Prepare the Alfredo sauce fresh for best texture and flavor when ready to serve.

What steak cut works best for Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce?

Sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip work great for their tenderness and flavor. Avoid tougher cuts unless marinated beforehand.

How do I keep the Alfredo sauce from separating in Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce?

Use low heat and avoid boiling after adding the cream and cheese. Stir constantly and add pasta water to emulsify if needed.

Can I make Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free pasta and check that your cheese and cream are certified gluten-free.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you love this rich and savory pasta dish, you should definitely check out Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta for another hearty, flavor-packed meal. You might also enjoy Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni if you want another take on creamy steak pasta. And don’t miss Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce for a chicken-based variation with a similar vibe.

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Don’t let this recipe get lost in the scroll! Make sure to save it by pinning it on your favorite Pinterest board so you can easily find it next time you’re craving creamy, garlicky pasta goodness. Also, share it with your friends and family – they’ll thank you for the dinner inspiration. Whether you text the link, share it on social media, or email it, spreading the love is always appreciated.

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