If you’re craving a comforting, indulgent dish that combines tender, juicy steak with a rich and creamy garlic butter sauce, this recipe for Steak Bites in Garlic Butter Cream with Shell Pasta is exactly what you need. The buttery garlic cream sauce clings perfectly to the tender steak bites and the shell-shaped pasta, making each bite flavorful and satisfying. This dish is simple enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough to serve guests.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb steak tips or sirloin steak, trimmed and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
- 2 cups shell pasta (conchiglie)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (a blend of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Salted water enhances the pasta’s flavor and prevents it from tasting bland. Add the shell pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente—meaning the pasta is cooked through but still firm to the bite. This texture is important because the pasta will continue to absorb sauce once mixed, so you don’t want it overly soft. Drain the pasta well and set it aside.
2. Season the Steak:
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the steak. Use a clean paper towel to pat the steak cubes dry — removing excess moisture helps to achieve a good sear. Generously season the steak pieces with salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides.
3. Sear the Steak Bites:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter until it begins to foam. Add the steak bites in a single layer. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan, as this will steam the steak instead of searing it. If needed, cook the steak in batches. Sear the steak bites without moving them for about 2-3 minutes per side until they develop a rich brown crust. This caramelization adds deep flavor. Once browned, remove the steak bites from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
4. Prepare the Garlic Butter Cream Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant — be careful not to burn the garlic as it will turn bitter. Pour in the heavy cream and immediately sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon or whisk to help the cheese melt evenly into the cream and to prevent lumps. Allow the sauce to simmer gently until it thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
5. Combine Steak and Pasta:
Return the seared steak bites to the skillet along with the drained shell pasta. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the mixture. Toss gently to coat the pasta and steak evenly with the rich garlic cream sauce. Allow everything to heat through together for 1-2 minutes so the flavors meld.
6. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Before serving, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. The Parmesan cheese adds saltiness, so be sure to taste before adding more.
7. Serve:
Serve immediately while hot, garnished with extra freshly grated Parmesan or chopped fresh herbs if desired. The creamy sauce, tender steak, and pasta make a perfect pairing.
Estimated Preparation and Cooking Time:
- Preparation Time: 10–15 minutes (cutting steak, mincing garlic, boiling water)
- Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes (pasta, steak, sauce, and combining)
- Total Time: Approximately 30–35 minutes
Tips for Success:
- Choosing Your Steak: Sirloin and steak tips are great for their tenderness and flavor. Avoid tougher cuts unless slow-cooked.
- Dry Steak Before Cooking: Patting the steak dry ensures a better sear and crust.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook steak in batches if needed; overcrowding lowers pan temperature and causes steaming.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic has a vibrant flavor and aroma compared to pre-minced or powdered garlic.
- Don’t Skip the Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives the sauce a rich umami flavor.
- Control Sauce Thickness: Simmer the sauce gently to your desired consistency; add reserved pasta water to thin if needed.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Prevent mushy pasta by draining it just before fully soft.
- Keep Ingredients Ready: Have everything prepped before cooking to streamline the process.
- Adjust Heat Carefully: Simmer sauce on medium to low heat to avoid burning the cream or cheese.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best fresh, as cream sauces thicken upon standing.
Variations to Customize Your Steak Bites in Garlic Butter Cream with Shell Pasta
- Protein Substitutes: Use diced chicken breast or thighs for a lighter alternative, or shrimp for a seafood variation.
- Add Vegetables: Sauté mushrooms, baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for extra color, texture, and nutrients.
- Pasta Alternatives: Penne, farfalle, fusilli, or even gnocchi can replace shell pasta to change the texture or presentation.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or Cajun seasoning to the steak or sauce for heat.
- Herb Boost: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme into the sauce or as a garnish for brightness.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, and use nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half, whole milk, or a combination to reduce fat and calories in the sauce.
- Wine Addition: Deglaze the skillet with a splash of dry white wine before adding cream for extra depth and complexity.
- Cheese Variations: Mix in mozzarella, fontina, or asiago cheese with Parmesan for different creamy flavors and textures.
- Bake as a Casserole: After combining, transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake until bubbly and golden.
- Add Bacon or Pancetta: Crisped bacon bits add smoky, salty crunch to the dish.
- Use Different Seasoning Blends: Try Italian seasoning blends with garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika.
- Add a Tangy Twist: A squeeze of lemon juice or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard stirred into the sauce brightens the flavors.
- Add Nuts: Toasted pine nuts or walnuts sprinkled on top add crunch and a nutty flavor.
- Use Fresh Garlic and Onion: Sauté finely chopped onions with the garlic for added sweetness and depth.
- Add Broccoli or Cauliflower: Lightly steamed or roasted florets can add a healthy, crunchy bite.
- Make It Vegan: Use tofu or tempeh instead of steak and plant-based cream and cheese alternatives.
- Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: For a tangy, slightly sweet contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Use Truffle Oil: A drizzle of truffle oil before serving adds gourmet flair.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or vegetable noodles like zucchini noodles.
Questions and Answers
- Q: What type of steak is best for this recipe?
A: Sirloin or steak tips work best because they are tender and cook quickly. - Q: Can I use a different pasta instead of shell pasta?
A: Yes, penne, farfalle, or fusilli are great alternatives. - Q: How do I know when the pasta is perfectly cooked?
A: Cook until al dente, which means it’s tender but still slightly firm to the bite. - Q: Why should I pat the steak dry before cooking?
A: Removing moisture helps the steak sear better and develop a nice crust. - Q: Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
A: Fresh garlic gives a stronger, fresher flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch. - Q: What can I substitute for heavy cream?
A: Half-and-half, whole milk, or plant-based creams can be used for a lighter or dairy-free version. - Q: How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?
A: Simmer it a little longer, or whisk in a slurry made from cornstarch and water. - Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance?
A: You can cook the components ahead but combine and serve fresh for best texture. - Q: Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes, use gluten-free pasta to make the dish gluten-free. - Q: What’s the best way to season the steak?
A: Simple salt and pepper work well; you can add Italian seasoning for extra flavor. - Q: How long should I sear the steak bites?
A: About 2-3 minutes per side until browned. - Q: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
A: Yes, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or asparagus work great. - Q: How do I prevent the steak from overcooking?
A: Cook in batches if needed and remove from heat as soon as browned. - Q: What is Italian seasoning?
A: A blend of dried herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. - Q: Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?
A: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and tastes fresher, but pre-grated can work. - Q: Should I cover the skillet while simmering the sauce?
A: It’s best to leave it uncovered to allow the sauce to thicken. - Q: What if I don’t have shell pasta?
A: Any small shaped pasta will work as it holds the sauce well. - Q: How do I make the sauce creamier?
A: Add a little more heavy cream or cheese as it simmers. - Q: Can I add wine to this recipe?
A: Yes, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding the cream for extra flavor. - Q: What can I serve with this dish?
A: A simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables pair nicely.