Description
A delicious and hearty Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Shell Pasta recipe featuring tender sirloin steak cubes cooked with garlic and thyme, tossed in a creamy Parmesan sauce over perfectly cooked shell pasta. This dish combines rich flavors with a creamy texture for a satisfying meal, perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Steak Bites
- 1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Pasta & Sauce
- 8 oz shell pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Cook the shell pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water for later use.
- Cook steak bites: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sirloin steak cubes, seasoning them with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook the steak for 4-5 minutes, turning to brown all sides and reaching your preferred doneness. Remove the steak bites from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté garlic and thyme: In the same skillet, add butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then stir in the fresh thyme leaves.
- Make creamy sauce and combine pasta: Reduce the heat to low. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, then pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
- Add steak bites back: Return the cooked steak bites to the skillet and gently toss everything together to combine the steak with the pasta and sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the dish for a bright, fresh finish. Plate the creamy garlic butter steak bites with shell pasta and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Use sirloin steak for tender and flavorful bites, but you can substitute with ribeye or filet mignon if preferred.
- Reserve pasta water as it helps to loosen up the creamy sauce without watering it down.
- If you want a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream.
- Make sure not to overcook the steak cubes; they should remain tender and juicy.
- Fresh thyme adds wonderful flavor, but dried thyme can be used in a pinch (use about 1 tsp dried).
- Serve immediately after cooking for the best texture and flavor.
