This Juicy Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Cheddar Alfredo Shells Recipe is the perfect way to satisfy your craving for a rich, indulgent meal that feels both cozy and special. Imagine tender, garlic-infused steak cubes seared to perfection, swimming in a luscious, cheesy alfredo sauce with perfectly cooked pasta shells that soak up every bit of flavor. Every bite is packed with warmth, comfort, and a burst of savory goodness that will make you feel like you’re dining at a top-notch bistro right in your own kitchen. If you love steak and creamy pasta, this combination is destined to become one of your go-to favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is simple and rewarding — each one bringing a vital touch to build the flavor, texture, and vibrant color of this dish. From the juicy steak to the creamy cheeses and fresh herbs, every element plays a starring role in creating that unforgettable dinner.
- 1 lb Sirloin Steak: The heart of the dish, choose ribeye or tenderloin for extra juiciness and tenderness.
- 1 tsp Kosher Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the steak without overpowering.
- 0.5 tsp Black Pepper: Freshly cracked for the perfect subtle heat and aroma.
- 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and perfectly caramelizes the steak bites; ghee or olive oil work well too.
- 2-3 cloves Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential for that irresistible, fragrant punch.
- 8 oz Medium Pasta Shells: Elbow or penne can substitute; shells hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream: Creates the luxuriously smooth alfredo base; half-and-half can lighten it up.
- 1 cup Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: For that intense, tangy cheesiness that defines this recipe.
- 0.5 cup Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds depth and a hint of nuttiness; Pecorino Romano is a great alternative.
- 2 tbsp Chopped Fresh Parsley: Brings fresh color and a subtle herbal brightness.
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika: Optional but fantastic for adding a warm smoky note.
- 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust to taste for a kick of heat that wakes up the palate.
How to Make Juicy Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Cheddar Alfredo Shells Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Steak
Start by patting your sirloin steak cubes dry with paper towels — this crucial step ensures a beautiful sear rather than steaming the meat. Once dry, sprinkle kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper generously over the cubes. This simple seasoning primes the steak to develop those deep, caramelized flavors as it cooks.
Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites
Heat 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. When sizzling hot, add the steak cubes in a single layer – don’t overcrowd the pan to keep the heat consistent and get that perfect brown crust. Sear each side until golden and crusty, yielding juicy, tender bites packed with flavor. Remove the cooked steak and set aside with the pan juices left behind to build your sauce.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta Shells
While the steak is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta shells and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain, reserving a splash of the pasta water to adjust the sauce texture later. The shell shape is perfect for catching creamy sauce, making every forkful delightful.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce
Reduce the skillet heat to medium and melt an additional tablespoon of butter in the pan with the steak juices. Add the freshly minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden — this is where the magic happens, infusing the sauce with that unmistakable garlic warmth. Next, pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and absorb the garlic’s essence.
Step 5: Incorporate the Cheeses
With the cream hot and flavorful, whisk in the shredded sharp cheddar and finely grated Parmesan until you achieve a smooth, velvety Alfredo sauce. The sharp cheddar gives the sauce a bold taste, while Parmesan adds a subtle nuttiness and depth that round everything out beautifully. If the sauce feels too thick, splash in a bit of reserved pasta water to reach the perfect consistency.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Steak in the Sauce
Now fold the cooked pasta shells into your creamy cheddar Alfredo sauce, making sure every shell is coated evenly. Gently add the seared steak bites back into the skillet, combining with the pasta mixture. Let everything warm together for another minute or two — this lets the flavors marry and the steak stay juicy and tender.
Step 7: Final Touches and Serving
Transfer your creation to serving plates, sprinkle generously with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness, and if you like a little extra heat, dust with smoked paprika and red pepper flakes. Serve immediately while it’s wonderfully warm and creamy.
How to Serve Juicy Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Cheddar Alfredo Shells Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley instantly livens up the plate with a pop of refreshing green that balances the richness of the dish. For an added flavor twist, a pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes on top adds a subtle smoky kick and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with crisp, bright sides like a simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli. Light sides help cut through the richness and keep every bite feeling fresh and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the steak bites and creamy shells in rustic individual bowls to highlight the comfort food vibe. Alternatively, arrange the pasta on a large serving platter with steak bites nestled on top, garnished with a sprinkle of parsley for a family-style feast. A drizzle of extra garlic butter or shaved Parmesan over the top before serving adds an elegant finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind the pasta will absorb some sauce as it sits, so the texture might slightly thicken overnight.
Freezing
You can freeze the steak bites and cheddar alfredo shells, but it’s best to freeze them separately if possible to maintain optimal texture. When freezing the combined dish, place it in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 to 2 months for the best flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid microwaving at full power as it can toughen the steak and break the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin is recommended for a great balance of tenderness and flavor, ribeye or tenderloin work wonderfully if you’re after extra juiciness. Just be mindful of cooking times as more delicate cuts may cook faster.
Is it okay to substitute different cheeses?
Yes, you can experiment with milder cheddar, a cheese blend, or even Gouda for a different twist. Parmesan or Pecorino Romano adds a great depth, so keeping at least one of those in the mix will help maintain the rich flavor profile.
How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that wakes up the flavors without overwhelming the dish. You can adjust the quantity based on your spice tolerance, or omit them entirely for a milder experience.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
While the steak bites are the star here, you could substitute them with sautéed mushrooms or a hearty vegetable like cauliflower for a vegetarian version, paired with the same creamy cheddar Alfredo shells.
What pasta alternatives work best if I don’t have shells?
Elbow macaroni, penne, or even fusilli cucumber pasta are great substitutes since they hold the sauce well and complement the steak bites. Avoid very thin pastas that won’t carry the rich sauce efficiently.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Juicy Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Cheddar Alfredo Shells Recipe enough for those nights when you want a meal that’s deeply satisfying, wonderfully comforting, and effortlessly impressive. It strikes the perfect balance between hearty steak and creamy indulgence, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again to treat yourself and your loved ones.
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Juicy Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Cheddar Alfredo Shells Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This recipe features juicy garlic butter steak bites served with creamy cheddar Alfredo shell pasta. Tender sirloin steak cubes are seared in butter and garlic, then combined with a rich, cheesy Alfredo sauce and tender pasta shells for a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 lb Sirloin Steak (ribeye or tenderloin can be used for extra juiciness)
- 1 tsp Kosher Salt (substitute regular salt but use less)
- 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (freshly cracked for best flavor)
- 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter (ghee or olive oil can substitute)
- 2–3 cloves Garlic (fresh minced is highly recommended)
Pasta and Sauce
- 8 oz Medium Pasta Shells (elbow or penne can be used)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream (substitute with half-and-half for lighter version)
- 1 cup Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese (substitute with mild or a cheese blend)
- 0.5 cup Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese (Pecorino Romano can be used)
- 2 tbsp Chopped Fresh Parsley (chives can be a substitute)
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika (omit for classic flavor)
- 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (adjust based on spice preference)
Instructions
- Prepare the Steak: Begin by patting the sirloin steak cubes dry thoroughly using paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Season the steak cubes evenly with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to ensure optimum flavor.
- Sear the Steak Bites: Heat unsalted butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until melted and hot. Add the seasoned steak cubes and sear them, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove steak bites from skillet and set aside, leaving any leftover juices in the pan.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the medium pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving some of the pasta water for sauce adjustment.
- Sauté Garlic: Lower the skillet heat to medium-low. Add additional butter to the leftover steak juices in the pan, then add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until fragrant and translucent, being careful not to burn it—this will take about 1-2 minutes.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to slightly thicken. Whisk in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and finely grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Fold the cooked pasta shells into the creamy cheese sauce gently. If the sauce is too thick, add small amounts of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Add Steak Bites to Pasta: Gently add the seared steak bites back into the skillet with the pasta and sauce. Stir carefully to combine, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld and ensure everything is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the creamy steak bites and pasta mixture to serving plates. Garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley, and sprinkle smoked paprika and red pepper flakes if desired for a smoky and spicy kick. Serve immediately while hot for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use ribeye or tenderloin steak for an even more tender and juicy bite.
- Regular salt can be used instead of kosher salt, but reduce the quantity slightly to avoid over-salting.
- Ghee or olive oil can substitute unsalted butter for searing steak and sautéing.
- Half-and-half can be swapped for heavy cream for a lighter sauce variation.
- Pasta water is great for adjusting sauce thickness and creating a silky finish.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your spice preference or omit for a milder dish.
- Leftover steak bites and sauce pair well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.
