Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells

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This is the kind of dinner that shuts everyone up at the table—and I say that with love. I made these garlic butter steak bites once for a Friday night indulgence, paired them with creamy chipotle white cheddar shells, and the result? Not a single leftover, not even a drip of sauce. The rich, sizzling steak is perfectly seared on the outside, tender on the inside, and absolutely soaked in garlicky butter. That alone is enough to win hearts.

But then comes the pasta—a velvety, smoky cheese sauce clinging to every shell, with a slow chipotle heat that creeps in just as you’re going for another bite. It’s cozy comfort food with a little kick, balanced out beautifully by the juicy steak. If you’re looking for a dinner idea that feels like a restaurant-quality dish without the fancy overhead, this combo is it. Let’s dive in.

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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells

• Flavor Explosion – Juicy, garlicky steak + smoky, creamy pasta = magic.
• Quick Yet Impressive – Feels gourmet but takes under an hour.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for a dinner party, date night, or treating yourself on a weeknight.
• Balanced Comfort Food – Creamy, spicy, cheesy pasta with rich, meaty bites—satisfying without being overly heavy.
• Customizable Heat Level – Control how much chipotle you want; keep it mild or dial it up for spice lovers.

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What Cut of Steak Should I Use for Garlic Butter Steak Bites?

When it comes to steak bites, tenderness is everything. I always go with sirloin—it’s lean, flavorful, and doesn’t break the bank. It sears beautifully and stays juicy with a quick, high-heat cook. But if you’re aiming to impress or just feeling fancy, ribeye adds a richer, more marbled texture that melts in your mouth. Tenderloin is another top-tier option if you want buttery softness, though it comes at a higher price.

Whichever cut you choose, just make sure it’s well-trimmed and cut into even, bite-sized cubes. Uniformity is key for even cooking and a perfect sear.

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Options for Substitutions

You’ve got some room to play with here depending on your pantry, preferences, or dietary needs:

• Steak Alternatives: Swap steak with boneless chicken thighs or even mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
• Butter: You can use ghee for a more intense buttery flavor or olive oil if you’re keeping it dairy-free.
• Chipotle: Not into spice? Go for smoked paprika instead. Still smoky, but way milder.
• White Cheddar: Use sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses like Gruyère and mozzarella for a unique spin.
• Shell Pasta: Any short pasta works—elbows, rotini, or penne will still hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Milk/Cream: If you’re out of heavy cream, mix whole milk with a bit of butter, or use half-and-half.

This dish is indulgent but flexible—don’t hesitate to make it your own.

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Ingredients for Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells

• Sirloin Steak (or preferred cut): The star of the plate—tender, juicy, and made for a quick sear.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Simple seasonings to bring out the steak’s natural flavor.
• Garlic (minced): Adds a bold, aromatic punch to the butter sauce that clings to every steak cube.
• Butter: Rich, velvety base for the garlic sauce—don’t skimp here.
• Olive Oil: Helps achieve that perfect sear on the steak without burning the butter.
• Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce (finely chopped): Smoky, spicy depth that gives the cheese sauce its edge.
• White Cheddar Cheese (shredded): Melts beautifully into the pasta for that signature creamy, tangy richness.
• Heavy Cream: The creamy backbone of the sauce—lush, thick, and luxurious.
• Shell Pasta: Ideal shape to catch and hold the cheesy chipotle sauce.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Enhances the savory flavor in the pasta sauce.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): A fresh pop of green that brightens the whole plate visually and flavor-wise.

Every ingredient plays a part in creating a satisfying balance between bold, creamy, spicy, and savory.

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Step 1: Prepare and Season the Steak

Start by cutting your steak into even, bite-sized cubes. Pat them dry with paper towels—this is key for a good sear. Season generously with salt and black pepper on all sides. Let the steak rest at room temperature while you prep the pasta.

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Step 2: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add shell pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning later.

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Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Steak Bites

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the steak bites in a single layer—work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Sear each side for about 2 minutes until browned and cooked to your liking. Remove from pan and set aside.

Reduce heat to medium, add butter and minced garlic to the same pan. Stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter until well coated. Remove from heat and keep warm.

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Step 4: Make the Chipotle White Cheddar Sauce

In a separate saucepan over medium heat, add a small knob of butter (or a splash of oil), then stir in the chopped chipotle peppers. Cook for about a minute. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until warm. Add garlic powder and onion powder. Lower the heat and slowly whisk in shredded white cheddar until fully melted and smooth.

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Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked shell pasta to the sauce and stir to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

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Step 6: Plate and Serve

Spoon the creamy chipotle shells onto a plate and top with hot, garlicky steak bites. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately and dig in while it’s hot and melty.

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How Long to Cook Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells

• Steak Bites: About 4–6 minutes total for a medium cook—2–3 minutes per side depending on the thickness and desired doneness.
• Pasta: Around 8–10 minutes for al dente shells (check the package for exact time).
• Cheese Sauce: Takes just 5–6 minutes to bring together once the cream is heated and cheese begins to melt.

In total, the whole recipe comes together in about 30–40 minutes start to finish. A pretty quick dinner considering how satisfying it is.

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Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells

• Dry the Steak Cubes: Moisture is the enemy of a good sear. Blot them with paper towels before seasoning.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook steak bites in batches to get that golden-brown crust instead of steaming them.
• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can make your sauce gritty.
• Adjust Spice Gradually: Start with a small amount of chipotle, taste, and build heat from there.
• Reserve Pasta Water: It’s a starchy secret weapon for loosening up cheese sauces without losing creaminess.
• Use Cast Iron for the Steak: If you have one, use it—it holds heat better and delivers a killer crust.
• Let Steak Rest Before Serving: Give it 3–5 minutes to relax before tossing back in the butter; this locks in juices.

This dish thrives on bold flavor and texture, and with these small tweaks, it hits every note just right.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the Drying Step for Steak: If your steak bites are wet, they’ll steam instead of sear. Always pat them dry before seasoning and cooking.
• Overcooking the Steak: These bites cook fast—too long and they’ll turn tough. Keep a close eye and pull them off the heat once they’re browned.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic cooks fast and goes from golden to bitter in seconds. Add it after the steak is seared and lower the heat.
• Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: It won’t melt smoothly into the sauce. Shred your cheese fresh for the creamiest texture.
• Overheating the Cheese Sauce: High heat can break the sauce or make it grainy. Keep it on low while stirring the cheese in gradually.
• Not Tasting as You Go: With the chipotle and cheddar, flavors can vary. Taste often and adjust spice or salt as needed.

Avoiding these pitfalls makes the difference between just good and absolutely irresistible.

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What to Serve With Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells?

Roasted Garlic Broccoli

A simple veggie side with bold flavor to match the richness of the main dish.

Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad

Something crisp and refreshing with a light vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess.

Warm Crusty Bread

Perfect for scooping up every last drop of that cheesy sauce and garlicky butter.

A Glass of Red Wine or Sparkling Water with Lime

Balance the savory richness with a bright sip—both pair beautifully with the spice and butter.

Cherry Tomato Salad

Fresh, acidic bites to balance the heat and richness of the cheese sauce.

Herb Butter Green Beans

Simple but elegant. They mirror the buttery notes of the steak while offering crunch.

Crispy Smashed Potatoes

For a truly indulgent side-by-side, serve with golden, garlicky smashed potatoes.

This dish plays well with sides that contrast in texture and bring freshness to the table.

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Storage Instructions

Got leftovers? Lucky you. Here’s how to keep everything tasting fresh:

• Refrigerator: Store the steak bites and pasta separately in airtight containers. They’ll stay good for up to 3 days.
• Reheating Steak: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a touch of butter to keep it tender. Avoid microwaving—it can make the steak rubbery.
• Reheating Pasta: Add a splash of milk or cream before microwaving or warming on the stovetop. Stir gently until smooth.
• Freezer: The cheese sauce won’t freeze well (it may separate), but the steak can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Note: Based on 4 servings. These are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

• Calories: 680
• Protein: 42g
• Fat: 42g
• Saturated Fat: 21g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Cholesterol: 140mg
• Serving Size: ~1¼ cups total (steak + pasta)

This is definitely a hearty, indulgent meal—great for when you’re craving something rich and satisfying.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best steak cut for this recipe?

Sirloin is my go-to—it’s lean, flavorful, and cooks quickly. But if you want a richer bite, ribeye or tenderloin also work beautifully.

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Can I make the chipotle cheddar sauce less spicy?

Absolutely. Just use less chipotle, or swap it for smoked paprika if you want all the smoky flavor without the heat.

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Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the components (cook the pasta, sear the steak) a few hours ahead. Reheat gently and combine right before serving for the best texture and flavor.

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How do I keep the cheese sauce from clumping?

Use low heat and freshly shredded cheese, and stir slowly as it melts into the cream. Avoid high heat, which causes separation.

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Is this meal gluten-free?

Not as written, but it can be! Just use gluten-free pasta and ensure your chipotle peppers and cheese are GF-certified.

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What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or a mix of milk and butter can work, but your sauce will be slightly thinner. For dairy-free, try unsweetened coconut cream.

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Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes! Just use a larger pan for the steak (or cook in batches), and scale ingredients evenly. The sauce can be doubled easily—just stir constantly to avoid scorching.

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How spicy is this recipe?

It’s got a gentle kick—warm but not overpowering. You control the spice by adjusting the amount of chipotle. Start small, taste, and build from there.

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Conclusion

Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells is one of those recipes that checks all the boxes: indulgent, comforting, bold, and still totally doable on a weeknight. You’ve got sizzling, buttery steak packed with garlicky flavor paired with a smoky, luscious cheese sauce coating every bite of pasta. Whether you’re feeding friends, a date, or just treating yourself, this dish doesn’t miss.

Serve it up hot, pour yourself something good, and enjoy the kind of meal that makes you forget you’re eating at home.

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