1. Cook the Pasta Shells
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Pro Tip: Rinse the shells briefly under cold water to prevent them from sticking together while you prepare the rest of the dish.
2. Sear the Steak Bites
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the bite-sized steak pieces and sear on all sides until golden brown and cooked to your desired doneness—about 3–5 minutes per side for medium-rare.
Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic and unsalted butter. Sauté for 1–2 minutes , stirring constantly, until fragrant and lightly golden.
Stir in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper. If there’s any steak juice left in the pan, mix it into the sauce for extra flavor.
4. Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
In a separate saucepan over medium heat, melt the tablespoon of butter. Whisk in the all-purpose flour to form a roux, cooking for 1 minute while stirring continuously.
Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens slightly—about 5–7 minutes . Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If using heavy cream, whisk it in during the last minute of cooking for added richness.
Tip: Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed.
5. Combine Everything
Return the cooked pasta shells to the pot and toss them gently with the creamy Parmesan sauce until fully coated. Divide the shells among serving plates or a large platter.
Top each portion generously with the garlic butter steak bites, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh parsley for extra flair. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the perfect harmony of savory steak and creamy pasta.
Optional: Drizzle with extra garlic butter sauce or pair with crusty bread for dipping.
Tips for Success
- Use Quality Steak : Opt for tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye for best results.
- Don’t Overcook the Steak : Cooking the bites quickly ensures they stay juicy and flavorful.
- Make It Ahead : Prepare the pasta shells and sauce separately up to a day in advance; assemble and reheat just before serving.
- Add Extras : Toss in sautéed mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for added color and taste.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells is more than just dinner—it’s a celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures. With its juicy steak, aromatic garlic butter, and cheesy pasta, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your household.
So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to savor this delightful creation! Don’t forget to share your results with us in the comments below—we’d love to see how they turned out.
If you enjoyed this recipe, check out our other articles for more dinner inspiration and easy cooking ideas. Happy cooking, and remember—life’s too short not to enjoy something delicious now and then! 🍴✨
