Save 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 steak bites when craving a restaurant-style dinner on a busy night. The pairing with cheesy shells became an instant comfort food in our house, and now it is my go-to treat for family evenings.
Ingredients
- Sirloin steak: 1 lb (450 g), cut into 1-inch cubes
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Kosher salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1½ tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Unsalted butter: 3 tbsp for steak bites, 2 tbsp for shells
- Garlic cloves: 4, minced
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped
- Medium pasta shells: 8 oz (225 g)
- Whole milk: 2 cups (480 ml)
- All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 1½ cups (150 g), shredded
- Parmesan cheese: 1½ cup (50 g), grated
- Salt: 1 tsp total
- Black pepper: ¼ tsp for shells
- Nutmeg (optional): Pinch, ground
Instructions
- Cook Pasta Shells:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Steak Bites:
- Pat steak cubes dry with paper towels. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Brown 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.
- Prepare 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.
- Finish Pasta:
- 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 My kids always race to the table when they smell steak searing in the pan and cheesy pasta bubbling on the stove. It is one family meal we all agree on—easy and delicious every single time we make it together.
Required Tools
Large skillet, saucepan, pot for pasta, knife and cutting board, measuring cups and spoons, whisk.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy and gluten. Always check product packaging for ingredient changes or additional allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 610, Total Fat: 34 g, Carbohydrates: 41 g, Protein: 38 g.
Save Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete dinner. Leftovers reheat beautifully for a next-day lunch.
Recipe Questions
- → What cut of steak works best for this dish?
Sirloin steak is recommended for its balance of tenderness and flavor, but ribeye or strip steak can be used as alternatives.
- → How do you achieve the perfect sear on steak bites?
Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the steak cubes, and cook them in a single layer without crowding to develop a nice crust.
- → Can I add vegetables to the cheesy pasta shells?
Yes, sautéed mushrooms or spinach can be mixed in for extra flavor and nutrition.
- → What type of cheese is used in the pasta sauce?
The sauce uses sharp cheddar cheese combined with Parmesan for a rich and creamy texture.
- → How can I add a spicy kick to the dish?
Incorporate red pepper flakes into the garlic butter while sautéing to add a subtle heat.
- → What is the best way to prevent pasta shells from sticking?
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and toss with a little butter or oil to keep them separate.