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Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce Recipe

Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce Recipe

4.8 from 22 reviews

Tender steak bites served over shell pasta coated in a rich and creamy garlic butter Alfredo sauce, making for a decadent yet easy-to-make meal perfect for dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Steak Bites

  • 12 oz steak (ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Shell Pasta and Sauce

  • 8 oz shell pasta
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Reserved pasta water (as needed)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add shell pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining the pasta and setting it aside.
  2. Season Steak Bites: Pat the steak pieces dry to remove moisture. Season generously with salt and black pepper for maximum flavor.
  3. Sear Steak Bites: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak pieces in a single layer, cooking each side for 2-3 minutes until nicely browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove steak bites and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
  4. Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce skillet heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic to the same skillet, sautéing for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.
  5. Make Alfredo Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked shell pasta to the Alfredo sauce, gently tossing to coat every piece evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is achieved.
  7. Combine and Serve: Plate the creamy pasta and top it with seared steak bites along with any juices from the plate. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if using. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • Use steak cuts like ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon for best results.
  • Adjust the amount of garlic to your preference.
  • Reserve pasta water carefully as it helps in thinning the sauce without losing flavor.
  • Do not overcook the steak bites to keep them tender and juicy.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, though the sauce will be less rich.
  • Parmesan cheese should be freshly grated for best melting and flavor.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and freshness but it is optional.

Nutrition

Keywords: steak bites, shell pasta, garlic butter Alfredo sauce, easy dinner recipe, creamy pasta, skillet steak, Parmesan pasta sauce