The aroma of sizzling steak fills the kitchen, creating an instant allure that’s hard to resist. That first bite of tender steak coated in a luscious creamy sauce sends taste buds dancing, igniting a sense of joy that’s pure comfort. This Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce perfectly marries elegance with ease, making it a standout for both a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion feast. Rich in protein and bursting with flavor, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser that you can tailor to suit everyone’s preferences—from adding colorful veggies to swapping in different pasta shapes. It’s the kind of meal that invites laughter and togetherness around the table. Curious about how to whip up this delightful dish? Let’s dive in!

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Why is this dish a must-try?

Comforting Indulgence: This dish combines the rich flavors of tender steak bites with creamy Alfredo sauce, offering a taste experience that feels both indulgent and homey.

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, a simple cooking process means you can whip this up in no time, allowing more moments for family and friends.

Customizable Delight: Feel free to swap in your favorite pasta or toss in some veggies like peas or sautéed mushrooms for a nutritious boost.

Crowd-Pleasing Elegance: Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a night in, this dish will impress anyone at your table.

Pair it with a light Caesar salad for a refreshing contrast, or serve with warm garlic bread to soak up every bit of that creamy sauce! Dive into a meal that brings everyone together—like my Pesto Caprese Pasta or French Onion Pasta Bake for more hearty favorites.

Steak Bites and Shell Pasta Ingredients

For the Pasta
• Shell Pasta – Acts as the base and captures the creamy sauce efficiently; substitute with penne or fettuccine as desired.

For the Steak
• Steak (Ribeye/Sirloin/Filet Mignon) – Provides juicy, seared protein; Ribeye is rich and flavorful, while sirloin is budget-friendly.
• Olive Oil – Used for searing steak to achieve a flavorful crust; use any neutral oil as a substitute.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning steak and enhancing flavors; adjust according to taste.

For the Sauce
• Butter – Adds creaminess and richness to the sauce; can be replaced with olive oil for a lighter version.
• Garlic – Provides aromatic depth to the sauce; fresh garlic yields the best flavor but can use garlic powder in a pinch.
• Heavy Cream – Main component of the Alfredo sauce, contributing to its creamy texture; substitute with half-and-half for reduced richness.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds a nutty flavor and thickens the sauce; grated cheese is preferable; can swap for pecorino Romano.

For Garnish
• Fresh Parsley (optional) – Adds a fresh touch; omit if desired.

This indulgent Steak Bites and Shell Pasta dish is sure to be a hit at your next meal!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Steak Bites and Shell Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Shell Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the shell pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once done, reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside, allowing it to steam off in the colander.

Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites
While the pasta cooks, pat the steak bites dry with paper towels and season them generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully add the steak bites to the skillet, searing for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove them from the pan, tent with foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Lower the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet, allowing it to melt. Once melted, add 4-5 minced garlic cloves, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned, as you want to avoid a bitter taste. The garlic should become lightly golden, infusing the butter with rich flavor.

Step 4: Create the Alfredo Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream into the pan with the sautéed garlic, stirring gently to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, allowing it to thicken slightly for about 2-3 minutes. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely into the sauce, creating a luxurious, creamy texture.

Step 5: Adjust Sauce Consistency
After the cheese has melted, assess the sauce’s consistency. If it appears too thick, gradually add in some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, while stirring until you achieve the desired creaminess. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still luscious.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once the sauce is ready, add the drained shell pasta directly into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss the pasta gently with tongs or a spatula, ensuring it is evenly coated with the creamy garlic sauce. Allow it to heat together for another minute to absorb the flavors.

Step 7: Serve with Steak Bites
To serve, plate the creamy shell pasta generously and top it with the seared steak bites. Drizzle any remaining pan juices over the top for extra flavor. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately to enjoy the delightful combination of flavors in your Steak Bites and Shell Pasta!

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How to Store and Freeze Steak Bites and Shell Pasta

Fridge: Store leftover Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to revive the sauce.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little heavy cream or pasta water to keep the sauce silky and smooth.

Component Storage: Alternatively, store the steak and pasta separately for up to 3 days in the fridge. This method helps to maintain the texture of both ingredients.

Expert Tips for Steak Bites and Shell Pasta

Uniform Cuts: Ensure steak bites are cut uniformly to guarantee even cooking. This prevents any bite from being under or overdone.
High Heat Searing: Sear your steak at high heat for an ideal caramelization. Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the temperature and result in steaming instead of searing.
Watch the Garlic: Keep a close eye on the garlic while sautéing; it should be fragrant and lightly golden. Overcooking will introduce a bitter flavor that can overpower the dish.
Adjust Creaminess: The creamiest sauce comes from adjusting the consistency with reserved pasta water. Add it slowly to achieve the perfect clingy texture for the sauce—your Steak Bites and Shell Pasta will thank you!
Taste as You Go: Don’t forget to taste your sauce! Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed to ensure a deliciously balanced flavor.

What to Serve with Steak Bites and Shell Pasta

Create a well-rounded meal that delights the senses and satisfies every craving.

Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce, offering a delightful crunch that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Caesar Salad: A crisp, light Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the steak and pasta wonderfully.
Roasted Vegetables: Tossed with olive oil and herbs, roasted veggies provide a lovely contrast in texture while infusing the meal with vibrant tastes.
Creamy Coleslaw: The tangy, creamy notes of coleslaw act as a cooling counterpart to the savory steak, making every bite enjoyable and satisfying.
Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus adds a pop of color and a fresh, earthy flavor that enhances your plate’s visual appeal and taste.
Red Wine: A glass of robust red wine amplifies the dish’s rich flavors, making for an elegant pairing that elevates your dining experience.
Chocolate Mousse: Conclude your meal with the decadence of a silky chocolate mousse, a dreamy dessert that promises a sweet ending to a savory feast.
Lemon Sorbet: As a palate cleanser, zesty lemon sorbet refreshes the taste buds, leaving a bright note after the richness of your meal.

Steak Bites and Shell Pasta Variations

Feel free to get creative with your dish and make it uniquely yours!

Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a light, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with steak.
Coconut milk’s richness complements the steak perfectly. Just be mindful of the creaminess you desire in your sauce.
Vegetable Boost: Stir in fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes toward the end for a pop of color and nutrients.
This not only adds a vibrant element to the dish but also enhances the overall flavor profile.
Whole Wheat Twist: Use whole wheat shell pasta for a healthier, fiber-rich option without sacrificing taste.
Whole wheat’s nuttiness works surprisingly well with the creamy sauce, making each bite satisfying.
Extra Flavor: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or thyme directly into your Alfredo sauce for an aromatic twist.
These herbs give your dish a garden-fresh flavor that brightens the richness of the sauce.
Spicy Kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes or fresh jalapeños for a delightful heat that balances the creaminess.
It’s a fantastic way to turn the comfort of this dish into a flavorful adventure for your taste buds!
Sauce Variations: Try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce for a bit of acidity and depth of flavor.
This accentuates the richness of the dish, providing a lovely restaurant-quality finish.
Add a Crunch: Top with toasted pine nuts or crispy bacon bits for an unexpected texture contrast.
That added crunch brings a delightful surprise to each forkful, making the dining experience even more enjoyable!

If you’re looking for more delicious inspirations, my Korean BBQ Steak or Mini Mcgriddle Bites will surely delight your family as well!

Make Ahead Options

These Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce are perfect for busy weeknights when you need to save time! You can prep the steak bites and sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply season the steak bites and store them in an airtight container in the fridge, while the Alfredo sauce can be made and refrigerated as well. To maintain quality, let both elements cool completely before covering. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently on the stove, adding a splash of pasta water to restore creaminess, and sear the steak bites just before tossing them with the pasta. This way, your meal will be just as delicious as if made fresh!

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Steak Bites and Shell Pasta Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using cuts like ribeye for its rich flavor or sirloin if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option. The key is to choose steak that has a good balance of marbling for tenderness and taste. Look for bright red color and avoid any dark spots which can indicate age.

How should I store leftovers of Steak Bites and Shell Pasta?
You can store leftover Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stovetop. I like to add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to bring back that creamy texture!

Can I freeze Steak Bites and Shell Pasta?
Very! You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. To do so, allow the pasta and steak to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little cream or pasta water to ensure it doesn’t dry out.

What if my Alfredo sauce is too thick?
Don’t worry; this happens to the best of us! If your sauce turns out too thick, simply add some of the reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time while gently stirring. The starch in the water will help achieve that desired creamy consistency. Aim for a texture that can coat the pasta nicely but isn’t gloppy.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with dairy allergies, you can substitute heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative, like coconut cream, or use a cashew or almond-based cream. Additionally, double-check the steak seasoning for potential allergens, and always keep any guests’ dietary restrictions in mind for a welcoming meal.

Can I use different types of pasta?
The more the merrier! While shell pasta captures the sauce beautifully, feel free to switch it up with penne, fettuccine, or even whole wheat options. Each pasta shape brings its own unique twist to the dish, enhancing your experience!