Save to Pinterest Tender, juicy steak bites seared in garlic butter, paired with creamy, cheesy pasta shells—a quick and satisfying meal perfect for weeknights.
I first made these garlic butter steak bites and cheesy shells on a busy weeknight when I needed something cozy & satisfying fast. The creamy cheese sauce paired with juicy steak was such a hit, it quickly became a family favorite!
Ingredients
- Sirloin steak: 1 lb (450 g), cut into 1-inch cubes
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Kosher salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Unsalted butter: 3 tbsp for steak, plus 2 tbsp for cheese sauce
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped
- Pasta shells: 8 oz (225 g) medium pasta shells
- Whole milk: 2 cups (480 ml)
- All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups (150 g)
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup (50 g)
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Ground nutmeg (optional): Pinch
Instructions
- Cook Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season Steak:
- While the pasta cooks, pat steak cubes dry with paper towels. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Sear Steak:
- Heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add steak cubes in a single layer and sear for 1 2 minutes per side, until browned and just cooked through. Remove steak bites to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
- Make Garlic Butter:
- Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, scraping up browned bits. Return steak bites and any juices to the skillet, toss with garlic butter and parsley for 30 seconds. Remove from heat.
- Make Cheese Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until thickened, about 3 4 minutes.
- Add Cheese & Combine:
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. Add drained pasta shells and stir to coat.
- Serve:
- Serve steak bites over cheesy shells, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
Save to Pinterest My kids love helping sprinkle cheese on the pasta and stealing a few steak bites before dinner. It always brings everyone to the table fast!
Required Tools
Large skillet, saucepan for cheese sauce, pot for boiling pasta, knife, cutting board, measuring cups, and whisk are essential for this recipe.
Allergen Information
Contains milk, cheese, and butter (dairy) plus wheat (gluten) in the pasta. Always check your cheese and pasta labels for any additional allergens if needed.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides about 610 calories, 34 g fat, 41 g carbohydrates, and 38 g protein.
Save to Pinterest This comforting meal comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy evenings. Enjoy the irresistible combination of garlicky steak and creamy shells!
Recipe FAQs
- → What cut of steak works best for these bites?
Sirloin is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, but ribeye or strip steak can be great alternatives if preferred.
- → How do you achieve tender steak bites?
Pat the steak cubes dry, season well, and sear in a hot skillet just until browned to keep them juicy and tender.
- → Can I prepare the cheesy pasta shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the pasta and cheese sauce in advance and gently reheat together before serving for convenience.
- → What gives the cheese sauce its smooth texture?
The sauce uses a classic roux technique by whisking flour into melted butter before gradually adding milk and cheeses for a creamy consistency.
- → Are there ways to customize the dish for extra flavor?
Adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the pasta or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter enhances the flavor profile.