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Cajun Steak Bites with Cheesy Garlic Shells Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 28 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet is a hearty and flavorful one-pan recipe combining perfectly seared, spicy Cajun-seasoned steak bites with creamy, cheesy garlic pasta shells. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s an easy yet impressive meal that delivers a comforting blend of bold spices and rich, cheesy goodness.

Ingredients

Steak Bites

  • 1 ½ lbs sirloin steak or ribeye, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cheesy Garlic Shells

  • 8 oz medium pasta shells
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Salt, to taste
  • ¼ cup reserved pasta water (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the medium pasta shells until al dente following package directions. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
  2. Season Steak: Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Toss the steak cubes with the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper evenly to coat all pieces.
  3. Sear Steak Bites: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Sear the seasoned steak bites in batches for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they develop a nice crust. In the last minute of cooking, add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet and toss the steak bites to coat them in the flavorful butter-garlic mixture. Remove the steak bites from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  5. Make Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, using a spoon or spatula to scrape and deglaze the pan, loosening any browned bits from the bottom. Let the cream simmer gently to start thickening.
  6. Add Cheeses and Seasonings: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Continue stirring until the cheeses have fully melted and the sauce turns creamy and smooth.
  7. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta shells into the cheese sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency. Toss gently to coat all pasta shells evenly.
  8. Finish and Serve: Top the cheesy garlic shells with the seared Cajun steak bites. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and herbaceous brightness. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Notes

  • Patting the steak dry before seasoning and searing helps to get a better crust on the meat.
  • Reserving pasta water is crucial for adjusting the sauce consistency and helping it cling to the pasta.
  • Sear the steak bites in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause steaming rather than searing.
  • You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it may be less rich.
  • This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/cajun-steak-bites-with-cheesy-garlic-shells-recipe/