Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells

Juicy, seared-to-perfection steak bites coated in a rich garlic butter glaze, paired with tender shell pasta drenched in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce—this dish is nothing short of indulgent. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells is a crowd-pleaser that marries comfort food with a restaurant-style finish.

The crispy caramelization on the steak combined with the creamy, cheesy texture of the pasta creates a satisfying contrast in every bite. This recipe delivers big flavor with simple ingredients, proving you don’t need a long list of items or fancy techniques to enjoy a gourmet experience at home.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells

• It’s a quick yet luxurious dinner option.
• Perfect balance of creamy, savory, and garlicky flavors.
• High protein, filling, and great for meal prep.
• Easily customizable—swap steak for chicken or add veggies like spinach or peas.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To bring out the best in this dish, you’ll need a few essential tools:

• Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy Pan: Ensures a great sear on the steak bites and retains heat evenly.
• Large Pot: Ideal for boiling the pasta and ensuring it cooks evenly without sticking.
• Colander: For draining the pasta efficiently.
• Microplane or Grater: Essential for freshly grating Parmesan for maximum flavor.
• Tongs or Slotted Spoon: To handle the steak bites while searing without piercing them and losing juices.

These tools aren’t just convenient—they help achieve the desired texture and depth of flavor. A good skillet gives that steak a restaurant-style crust, and freshly grated Parmesan will always outperform pre-shredded.

---

Preparation Tips

Start by taking the steak out of the fridge 20–30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature; this promotes even searing. Make sure your skillet is very hot before adding the steak bites, and avoid overcrowding the pan—cook in batches if needed. For the pasta, salt your water generously to flavor the shells from within. When preparing the Parmesan sauce, use low heat to avoid breaking the dairy, and stir continuously to get that luscious creamy consistency. Finish everything with a garnish of chopped parsley and a final grating of cheese for that picture-perfect touch.

---

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells

For the Garlic Butter Steak Bites:

• 1.5 lbs sirloin steak (or ribeye), cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

For the Creamy Parmesan Shells:

• 8 oz shell pasta (medium size)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half for a lighter option)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: pinch of nutmeg for warmth, or red pepper flakes for a touch of heat

---

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by cutting the steak into even 1-inch cubes. Mince all garlic, chop parsley, and grate your Parmesan cheese. Bring water to a boil in a large pot for the pasta, and salt it generously. Have your butter and cream measured and ready for smoother cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Cook the shell pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.

Step 3: Sear the Steak Bites

Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil. Once hot and shimmering, add the steak cubes in a single layer—do not overcrowd the pan. Season with salt and pepper. Sear each side for 1–2 minutes until browned and caramelized. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming the meat.

Step 4: Add Garlic Butter

Lower the heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic directly to the skillet with the steak bites. Stir and toss for 1–2 minutes, coating each piece evenly with garlic butter. Remove from heat and set aside. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In a separate pan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer, and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Let it melt and thicken, stirring continuously for 3–4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked shell pasta into the Parmesan cream sauce. Stir to coat each shell thoroughly. Allow it to sit on low heat for a minute so the flavors meld together.

Step 7: Plate and Serve

Spoon the creamy Parmesan shells onto a plate and top (or serve alongside) the garlic butter steak bites. Finish with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Serve immediately while hot.

---

Notes

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the steak bites are at their most tender right after cooking, and the creamy pasta has the perfect consistency when hot. If you want to make it ahead, prepare the steak and pasta separately and combine just before serving. For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the steak or a spoonful of cream cheese to the pasta sauce for a silkier texture.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcrowding the pan: This causes the steak to steam instead of sear. Always cook in batches.
• Using cold steak: Cold meat straight from the fridge won’t sear properly. Let it come to room temp first.
• Burning the garlic: Garlic cooks quickly and turns bitter if burned. Add it only after reducing the heat.
• Overcooking the pasta: Al dente shells hold sauce better and won’t turn mushy.
• Not salting the pasta water: This is your only chance to season the pasta itself.

---

Storage Instructions

Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing. Place steak and pasta in separate airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the steak bites in a skillet over medium heat to preserve their texture. Reheat pasta gently in a pan with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving the steak as it may become rubbery.

---

Estimated Nutrition

• Calories: ~620 kcal per serving
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Cholesterol: 135mg
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

(Values are approximate and based on standard portion sizes.)

---

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get a perfect sear on steak bites?

Make sure your skillet is hot and dry, avoid overcrowding, and don’t move the pieces too much while they cook.

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes! Ribeye, tenderloin, or even New York strip work great. Just aim for a well-marbled cut.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half and half or whole milk with a bit of cream cheese are good substitutes.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely. Penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine will work if you don’t have shells.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use gluten-free pasta and ensure your seasonings are gluten-free.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s not ideal, as creamy sauces and steak texture can suffer after freezing. Fresh is best.

How can I make this dish spicy?

Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter or a dash of hot sauce to the pasta sauce.

What sides go well with this?

A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables are perfect companions.

---

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells is a mouthwatering fusion of bold, buttery steak and luscious, cheese-laced pasta. Whether you’re whipping it up for a special dinner or treating yourself midweek, it’s a recipe that satisfies both comfort food cravings and gourmet appetites. Simple, savory, and unforgettable—this dish earns a spot in your regular rotation.

---

Print