Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that perfectly balances tender beef and creamy pasta, then you are going to fall head over heels for Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce. This dish is a celebration of flavors where juicy, seared steak pieces meet delicate shell pasta, all smothered in a luscious garlic butter Alfredo sauce. It’s comforting yet elegant, simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for guests. The combination of textures and the rich sauce make this recipe an absolute showstopper you’ll want to keep coming back to.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is a great example of how using a handful of quality ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. Each element plays a crucial role, from the savory steak bites that add substance, to the tender shell pasta that holds the creamy sauce just right. The garlic butter Alfredo sauce brings everything together with its dreamy richness and subtle hints of garlic and Parmesan.

• 12 oz steak (ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon): Choose your favorite cut and cut it into bite-sized pieces for perfect searing and tender bites.
• 8 oz shell pasta: These pasta shells are ideal for capturing the Alfredo sauce in their curves, delivering flavor in every forkful.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Used for searing the steak bites, adding a nice crust and depth of flavor.
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter: The base for sautéing garlic and enriching the Alfredo sauce’s creamy texture.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with an irresistible aroma and subtle warmth.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the velvety consistency of the Alfredo sauce that coats the steak and pasta perfectly.
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty depth and helps thicken the sauce beautifully.
• Salt, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of all ingredients.
• Black pepper, to taste: Provides a gentle kick to balance the richness of the sauce.
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional): A fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of color to finish the dish.
• Reserved pasta water (as needed): The starchy water helps adjust the sauce’s consistency while keeping it silky smooth.

How to Make Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook your shell pasta according to the package instructions until just al dente. Reserving half a cup of that pasta water before draining is a clever trick — it’s magic for loosening your sauce later without watering down the flavor.

Step 2: Prepare and Season the Steak Bites

Pat those steak pieces dry with paper towels—this is key for getting a gorgeous golden crust. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Don’t be shy here; the seasoning helps the steak bites shine against that creamy sauce.

Step 3: Sear the Steak Bites

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add steak bites in a single layer, giving them plenty of space to develop a beautiful sear without steaming. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until perfectly browned but still tender inside. Transfer them to a plate, cover loosely with foil to keep warm.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until it becomes fragrant and golden but not burnt. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it gently to a simmer. Slowly whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan, stirring constantly until the sauce is silky and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add your drained shell pasta to the Alfredo sauce, tossing it gently to get every shell coated luxuriously. If the sauce feels too thick, add reserved pasta water a splash at a time until you hit that perfect creamy consistency that clings beautifully to each bite of pasta.

Step 6: Plate and Serve

Arrange the pasta on plates or in a serving dish. Nestle the seared steak bites on top, allowing any delicious juices to mingle with the sauce. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you like an extra burst of freshness and color. Serve immediately while still warm and inviting.

How to Serve Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a bright contrast to this rich dish, while a light dusting of extra Parmesan can make it even more indulgent. For a little heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes delivers a welcome kick.

Side Dishes

Keeping it simple with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette is a refreshing way to balance the creamy richness. Garlic roasted asparagus or sautéed spinach also pair beautifully, adding color and earthiness to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this dish family-style in a large, elegant bowl so everyone can dig in and enjoy the fun of sharing. For a restaurant feel, plate individual portions and drizzle a bit of extra sauce around the edges for an inviting look. You might also try topping it with crispy fried shallots or toasted pine nuts for added crunch and flavor dimensions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers of Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. This dish keeps well for up to 3 days and still tastes great with just a quick reheat.

Freezing

While the creamy sauce is best fresh, you can freeze the components separately if needed. Freeze cooked pasta and steak bites in separate containers for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw in the fridge overnight and gently reheat while preparing fresh Alfredo sauce to toss with pasta and steak.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring often. Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water if the sauce has thickened too much. This helps bring back that luscious texture without drying out the steak bites.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While shell pasta is great for holding onto the Alfredo sauce, you can substitute with other shapes like fettuccine, penne, or farfalle if you prefer.

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

Steak bites should be browned on the outside with a slightly pink center for tender juiciness. Depending on thickness and preference, 2-3 minutes per side usually does the trick for medium-rare to medium.

Is there a way to lighten up the Alfredo sauce?

You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream, but keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and creamy. Adding a bit of flour or cornstarch can help thicken a lighter sauce.

Can I prepare this recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! This recipe is easily doubled or tripled. Just be sure to cook the steak bites in batches to maintain a good sear and avoid overcrowding the pan.

What if I don’t have fresh garlic?

Minced garlic from a jar works in a pinch, just use a bit less since it’s more potent and sometimes has a slightly different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a cozy, flavorful dinner that feels like a special treat but comes together without fuss, you must try Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce. The juicy steak bites combined with luscious garlic butter Alfredo and tender pasta is a combo that’s hard to resist. Cook it up soon, and get ready for a meal that everyone will be asking you to make again and again!

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