Creamy Parmesan Shells with Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Ingredients
1 lb steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Shells:
12 oz medium pasta shells (or any short pasta)
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup grated parmesan cheese
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ cup reserved pasta water
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Cook the steak bites: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the steak pieces, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the steak is browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
Make the garlic butter sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. If using, sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Prepare the creamy pasta sauce: Add the heavy cream to the skillet and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the grated parmesan, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. If needed, add the reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency. Stir until the pasta is well coated.
Finish and serve: Return the cooked steak to the skillet and toss everything together. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm through. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese. Serve immediately!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4-6