Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells

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I don’t know what it is about creamy pasta and sizzling steak, but when the two come together, it feels like the kind of comfort food that wraps you up in a warm hug. This Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells recipe was born out of one of those “let’s just throw something together” nights—and it ended up being a serious crowd favorite. I’ve made it more times than I can count since, and every single time, people ask for the recipe before their plates are even clean.

The richness of the extra cheesy Alfredo-coated shells is perfectly balanced by the bold flavor and crisp sear of the juicy steak bites, all finished off in a simple garlic butter. Whether you’re trying to impress dinner guests or just want something satisfying after a long day, this recipe delivers. It’s cozy, indulgent, and surprisingly easy to pull together.

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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells

• It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• The garlic butter adds incredible flavor to tender, juicy steak bites.
• The shells are drenched in an ultra-creamy cheddar Alfredo sauce that’s totally addictive.
• You only need a handful of pantry staples to make it happen.
• It tastes like a steakhouse meal without leaving your kitchen.

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

The beauty of this recipe is that it doesn’t require an expensive cut to taste amazing. I usually go for sirloin—it’s lean, cooks quickly, and becomes incredibly tender when seared in garlic butter. Ribeye is another delicious option if you want more marbling and a richer flavor, though it’s a bit pricier. New York strip or filet mignon are great if you’re cooking for a special occasion.

Just make sure to cut your steak into even, bite-sized cubes, and let it rest at room temperature before cooking. This ensures a nice sear and keeps the bites juicy inside.

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Options for Substitutions

You’ve got flexibility here, especially if you need to adjust to what’s already in your kitchen.

• Steak: Sub with boneless chicken thighs or portobello mushrooms for a different protein (or meatless option).
• Shells: Any short pasta works—try cavatappi, penne, or elbows.
• Cheddar Alfredo Sauce: No heavy cream? Use evaporated milk or a mix of whole milk and butter. You can also use shredded mozzarella, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for a different cheese vibe.
• Garlic Butter: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an earthy twist. Or, use garlic-infused oil if you’re out of fresh cloves.

Don’t be afraid to get creative—this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.

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Ingredients for Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells

• Sirloin Steak
  This is the star of the show—lean, tender, and flavorful. Cut it into cubes for the perfect steak bites.
• Garlic Cloves
  Essential for building that rich, aromatic garlic butter that coats the steak.
• Unsalted Butter
  Helps create a velvety, flavorful base to sear the steak and infuse it with garlic.
• Olive Oil
  A touch of oil raises the smoke point when searing steak, giving you that golden-brown crust.
• Salt and Pepper
  Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavor of the steak.
• Pasta Shells
  These scoop up the creamy sauce perfectly. They’re hearty and comforting—ideal for this cheesy Alfredo base.
• Heavy Cream
  This makes the Alfredo sauce irresistibly rich and smooth.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese
  Gives the sauce a bold, cheesy flavor that stands out against the creamy base.
• Parmesan Cheese
  Adds a salty, nutty balance to the cheddar and helps thicken the sauce.
• Garlic Powder and Onion Powder
  Just a pinch gives the Alfredo an extra savory kick.
• Fresh Parsley (optional)
  For garnish—it adds a pop of color and a bit of fresh brightness.

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

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Step 2: Make the Cheddar Alfredo Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, add the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan gradually, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Lower the heat and keep warm.

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Step 3: Season and Sear the Steak

Pat the steak bites dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the steak bites in a single layer and sear on each side for about 2–3 minutes until browned and cooked to your liking. Avoid overcrowding the pan—cook in batches if needed.

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Step 4: Add Garlic Butter

Reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet with the steak. Stir to coat the bites evenly, letting the garlic lightly sizzle (but not burn) for about 1 minute.

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Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Spoon the creamy cheddar Alfredo shells onto a plate. Top with hot garlic butter steak bites. Garnish with chopped parsley and a dash of paprika or black pepper if desired.

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How Long to Cook Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells

The total time from start to finish is around 25–30 minutes.

• Pasta Shells: 8–10 minutes (while you prep other components)
• Cheddar Alfredo Sauce: 6–8 minutes, stirred continuously until creamy
• Steak Bites: 5–6 minutes total searing time, plus 1 minute for garlic butter finish

It’s a quick and satisfying meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for speed.

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Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells

• Dry the steak well before searing—it ensures that beautiful golden crust.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the steak. Too many pieces at once will steam instead of sear.
• Use freshly grated cheese in the Alfredo for the smoothest sauce. Pre-shredded cheese can turn grainy.
• Taste and adjust the sauce before serving—it’s your chance to balance the salt, cheese, and cream.
• Let the steak rest for a minute after cooking so the juices stay locked in.
• Want extra richness? Add a splash of pasta water to the Alfredo before mixing it with the shells—it helps bind everything together.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using wet steak: Moisture is the enemy of a good sear. Pat those steak cubes dry with paper towels before seasoning.
• Overcooking the steak: These bites cook fast—don’t walk away! A few minutes on each side is plenty for juicy, medium-rare centers.
• Burning the garlic: Garlic cooks quickly, so once you add it to the pan, reduce the heat and stir constantly. Burnt garlic will turn bitter fast.
• Using low-quality cheese: Pre-shredded or processed cheese often doesn’t melt well. Go for block cheddar and grate it yourself for the smoothest Alfredo.
• Skipping seasoning in layers: Season the steak, season the sauce, and always taste before serving.

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What to Serve With Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells?

Garlic Bread or Cheesy Toast

Perfect for scooping up any extra Alfredo sauce left on the plate.

Roasted Broccoli or Green Beans

Their light crispness and slight bitterness cut through the richness of the dish.

Simple Caesar Salad

The crunch and acidity of Caesar dressing balances the creamy pasta.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy mushrooms pair beautifully with both garlic butter steak and cheesy pasta.

Cucumber and Tomato Salad

A refreshing, cold side that adds a juicy, acidic contrast.

A Glass of Red Wine

Go for a medium-bodied red like merlot or cabernet sauvignon—it complements the steak and cheese combo.

Sparkling Water with Lemon

For a light, non-alcoholic option that refreshes your palate between bites.

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Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (lucky you), store them properly to keep everything tasting fresh:

• Refrigerator: Store the steak bites and Alfredo shells in separate airtight containers if possible. They’ll stay good for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat the pasta on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Warm the steak in a skillet over low heat to prevent it from overcooking.
• Freezer: Not ideal. Cream-based sauces can separate after freezing and thawing, and the steak loses texture. This one is best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

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Estimated Nutrition

Note: Values below are estimates based on one serving (recipe serves 4).

• Calories: 720
• Protein: 39g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 43g
• Saturated Fat: 22g
• Cholesterol: 150mg
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

This dish is indulgent and rich—perfect for when you want something hearty and satisfying.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best cut of steak for this recipe?

Sirloin is my go-to for affordability and tenderness, but you can also use ribeye, strip steak, or even filet mignon for a more luxurious bite.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the Alfredo sauce and cube the steak a day in advance. Cook everything fresh just before serving for best flavor and texture.

How do I avoid overcooking the steak?

Use a hot skillet, don’t overcrowd the pan, and cook the steak in small batches. Aim for 2–3 minutes per side and remove promptly.

Is it okay to use jarred Alfredo sauce?

You can if you’re in a pinch, but the homemade cheddar Alfredo takes this dish to a whole new level. It’s worth the extra 10 minutes.

Can I use chicken instead of steak?

Absolutely. Boneless chicken thighs or breasts work great. Just make sure to cube them and cook until fully done.

How do I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce or season the steak with cayenne or smoked paprika before searing.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta shells and double-check that your cheese and seasonings are certified gluten-free.

Will this recipe double easily for guests?

It sure does. Just cook the steak in batches so you don’t overcrowd the pan, and scale the sauce and pasta accordingly.

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Conclusion

Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration in every bite. The creamy, cheesy pasta hugs every shell, while those seared steak bites deliver bold, buttery flavor that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re cooking to impress or treating yourself after a long week, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy—and might just earn a spot in your regular rotation. It’s rich, comforting, and ready faster than you’d expect.

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