If you’re looking to impress with a dish that feels indulgent yet comes together with delightful ease, this Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Shell Pasta Recipe is a must-try. Tender, juicy sirloin steak bites seared to perfection meet a luxuriously creamy pasta tossed in a heavenly garlic butter sauce—each bite bursting with warming herbs, smoky paprika, and fresh parsley. This recipe brings restaurant-quality indulgence straight to your kitchen, creating a perfect balance of rich textures and bold flavors that will quickly become a weeknight favorite or a special occasion hit.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Shell Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but essential to delivering the signature creamy, savory, and aromatic profile of the dish. From the rich butter and garlic that infuse the steak bites, to the creamy Parmesan-coated pasta shells, every element plays a vital role in the harmony of tastes and textures.

1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes: Choose well-marbled steak for tender, flavorful bites.
2 tbsp olive oil: For searing the steak to a perfect crust without sticking.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a strong, fragrant base for the butter sauce.
4 tbsp butter: Provides richness and a silky sauce that coats everything beautifully.
1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves: Brings a subtle herby note that brightens the dish.
1 tsp smoked paprika: Infuses a gentle smokiness that deepens the flavor complexity.
1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a touch of warmth and mild heat.
8 oz shell pasta: The perfect shape to catch the creamy sauce and pockets of garlic butter.
2 tbsp olive oil: Helps cook the pasta sauce components smoothly.
1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, silky texture that makes the pasta irresistible.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savory, nutty richness and helps thicken the sauce.
2 tbsp butter: Additional butter to boost creaminess in the sauce.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic to keep the flavor bright and aromatic in the sauce.
1/4 tsp salt: Balances the cream sauce perfectly.
1/8 tsp black pepper: Adds subtle spice and depth.
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish: Provides a fresh, vibrant finish and a pop of color.

How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Shell Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

The foundation for this recipe is perfectly cooked shell pasta, which holds onto the creamy sauce wonderfully. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain it while reserving a little pasta water. This reserved water is a secret helper if you need to loosen your sauce later to the perfect consistency.

Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites

Get a large skillet sizzling with olive oil over medium-high heat and add your steak cubes, thoughtfully seasoned with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. You want that exterior to brown beautifully, locking in juices and developing mouthwatering caramelized edges. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, turning so each side is evenly browned and the steak reaches your desired doneness. Remove the steak bites and let them rest off the heat.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Use the same pan to your advantage—adding butter and minced garlic into the drippings creates a flavor-packed base. Sauté these for a couple of minutes until fragrant, then stir in fresh thyme leaves to bring a fragrant, herbal lift to the sauce.

Step 4: Combine Pasta with Cream Sauce

Now lower the heat and add your cooked pasta into the skillet. Pour in the heavy cream and toss in grated Parmesan cheese. Stir gently to coat every shell with the rich, velvety sauce. Remember, if it feels too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water will smooth things out perfectly and keep the sauce clingy without being heavy.

Step 5: Finish with Steak and Parsley

Return the beautifully seared steak bites to the skillet, folding them carefully into the creamy pasta. A final sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens the dish both visually and in taste. Give it a quick taste, adjusting salt and pepper to your liking. Then, it’s ready to serve up hot and irresistible!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Shell Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Adding chopped fresh parsley is a winner, adding color and a burst of fresh flavor that complements the garlicky richness. For a bit of extra flair, you could sprinkle some extra Parmesan or drizzle a little good quality olive oil over the top right before serving for shine and more depth.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans offer fresh contrast and keep the meal balanced and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner where presentation matters, serve the steak bites and pasta in shallow bowls. Garnish with a few sprigs of fresh thyme or some lemon zest for a lovely aromatic touch. You can also accompany it with crusty garlic bread or toasted baguette slices to scoop up every last drop of that dreamy sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Shell Pasta Recipe keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors actually develop nicely, but be mindful that the steak might become slightly firmer, which you can refresh during reheating.

Freezing

Because of the creamy sauce and fresh herbs, freezing is not ideal as the texture and flavor may alter. If you must freeze, store the pasta and steak separately from the sauce to maintain better integrity. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to avoid overcooking the steak or breaking the sauce. Add a tablespoon of cream or reserved pasta water to revive the creaminess if needed. Microwave reheating is possible but do so in short bursts, stirring frequently.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak for the Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Shell Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! While sirloin is tender and flavorful, you can also use ribeye or filet mignon for extra richness. Just be sure to cut the steak into uniform cubes for even cooking.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the shell pasta with a gluten-free pasta of your choice. The creamy sauce and steak bites remain just as delicious without wheat.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

While you can prepare the garlic butter and cream sauce ahead, it’s best to combine it with the pasta and steak right before serving to keep everything fresh and perfectly textured.

What if I prefer a spicier version?

To add some heat, consider including a pinch of red pepper flakes either while cooking the garlic butter sauce or sprinkled on top before serving. It pairs wonderfully with the smoky paprika.

How do I know when the steak bites are cooked perfectly?

A good rule of thumb is to brown the steak on all sides for about 4-5 minutes and then check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer: 135°F for medium-rare or 145°F for medium. Adjust cooking time according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Shell Pasta Recipe is one of those joyful meals that makes you want to invite friends over just to share it. It’s rich, comforting, and surprisingly straightforward to make, combining simple ingredients with an elevated twist that turns everyday dinner into a celebration. Grab the steak, pasta, and garlic butter, and dive into this delicious dish soon—you won’t regret it!