Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells

Name: Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces; 3 tbsp butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 8 oz shell pasta; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and black pepper to taste

Published: June 18, 2025

by Dian

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in just 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic butter and creamy Parmesan delivers a rich flavor that will satisfy your taste buds.
Versatile Meal: Serve this dish as a cozy dinner or impress guests at your next gathering with its gourmet feel.
Kid-Friendly: The creamy pasta and tender steak bites appeal to both kids and adults alike.
One-Pan Cooking: Most of the cooking happens in one skillet, minimizing cleanup time.

Tools and Preparation

To create the delicious Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells, gather the necessary tools before you start cooking. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet
Pot for Pasta
Cutting Board
Knife
Measuring Cups and Spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet: A large skillet allows for even cooking of the steak bites while making it easy to toss them in garlic butter.
Pot for Pasta: A good-quality pot ensures that the pasta cooks evenly without sticking together.
Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for cutting steak into bite-sized pieces.
Knife: A sharp knife makes it easier to prepare ingredients quickly, enhancing your cooking efficiency.

Ingredients

For the Steak Bites:
* 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
* 3 tbsp butter
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tsp fresh thyme (optional)
* 1/2 tsp salt
* 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Creamy Parmesan Shells:
* 8 oz shell pasta
* 1 tbsp butter
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/2 tsp garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Fresh parsley for garnish

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells

Step 1: Cook the Steak Bites

Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the steak pieces with salt and pepper.
Add the steak to the skillet and cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked to your desired doneness.
Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter.
Add the minced garlic and fresh thyme (if using).
Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Return the steak bites to the skillet, tossing them in the garlic butter mixture.
Cook for an additional 2 minutes and remove from heat.

Step 3: Cook Creamy Parmesan Shells

Cook shell pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In another pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
Add heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; stir until heated through.
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

Toss cooked shell pasta in creamy Parmesan sauce until evenly coated.
Serve steak bites on top of creamy Parmesan shells.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your meal filled with delightful flavors!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells

Serving Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells is all about presentation and enhancing the flavors. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various sides to elevate your meal experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

Tossed Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the steak and creamy pasta.
Caesar Salad: The classic Caesar salad adds a crunchy texture and bold flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy shells.

Add Some Bread

Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce from the steak bites.
Breadsticks: Soft, cheesy breadsticks offer a delightful chewy element that pairs wonderfully with pasta.

Include Seasonal Vegetables

Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted with olive oil and salt add a fresh crunch to your plate.
Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach provides a nutritious green option that balances the richness of the dish.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells

Perfecting this recipe involves attention to detail and technique. Follow these tips for an even more satisfying meal.

Choose Quality Meat: Select fresh sirloin steak for tenderness and flavor. The better the quality, the more enjoyable your dish will be.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking steak bites, avoid overcrowding in the skillet. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve a nice sear.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance flavor significantly compared to dried versions. Opt for fresh when possible.
Monitor Cooking Time: For perfectly cooked steak bites, keep an eye on cooking time. Aim for medium-rare to medium for best results.
Whisk the Sauce Well: When making the creamy Parmesan sauce, whisk thoroughly to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth finish.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, or cheese according to your preference for optimal flavor balance.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells

Complementing your main dish with sides can enhance your meal’s experience. Here are some great side dishes to consider.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts seasoned with olive oil and balsamic vinegar provide a savory crunch that pairs well with both steak and pasta.
Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and creaminess that balances out rich flavors on your plate.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Smooth mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that complements both components of the dish.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter brings seasonal sweetness that enhances every bite of steak and pasta.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil create a light side that contrasts nicely with rich flavors.
Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli offers a nutritious green option while acting as a palate cleanser between bites of steak and creamy shells.
Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide extra crunch and heartiness alongside your flavorful main dish.
Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles serve as a low-carb alternative that pairs well without overshadowing the main flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

Overcooking the steak: Cooking the steak bites for too long can result in tough meat. Aim for 3-5 minutes, adjusting based on your preferred doneness.
Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your steak properly can lead to bland bites. Use salt and pepper liberally before cooking.
Using low-quality pasta: Not all pasta is created equal. Choose high-quality shell pasta for a better texture and taste in your creamy dish.
Not letting the sauce thicken: If you rush the sauce preparation, it may remain too thin. Allow it to simmer and thicken after adding the cheese for a better coating on the pasta.
Neglecting garnish: Forgetting to add fresh parsley as a garnish can make your dish look less appealing. A sprinkle of parsley adds color and freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells

Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until heated thoroughly.
Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells:

Can I use other types of meat for Garlic Butter Steak Bites?

Yes! You can substitute sirloin steak with chicken, turkey, or lamb based on your preference.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option.

How do I customize Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells?

You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to enhance nutrition and flavor while keeping the same creamy sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the steak bites and creamy shells separately and combine them when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells is not just a comforting dish; it’s also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding seasonal veggies or trying different proteins. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions—give it a try!

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