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Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce Recipe

Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce Recipe

5.1 from 15 reviews

A rich and comforting dish featuring tender steak bites and shell pasta coated in a creamy garlic butter Alfredo sauce. Perfect for a hearty dinner, this recipe balances succulent seared steak with a luscious homemade sauce made from butter, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, finished with fresh parsley for a touch of brightness.

Ingredients

Scale

Steak and Pasta

  • 12 oz steak (ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 8 oz shell pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Alfredo Sauce

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Garnish

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Reserved pasta water (as needed)

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shell pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
  2. Prepare Steak Bites: Pat the steak pieces dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and black pepper on all sides to enhance flavor.
  3. Sear Steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak bites in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet, place on a plate, and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
  4. Sauté Garlic: Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add the unsalted butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
  5. Make Alfredo Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked shell pasta to the Alfredo sauce, tossing gently to coat each piece evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
  7. Serve: Plate the pasta and top with the seared steak bites along with any flavorful juices from the plate. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • Make sure to pat steak dry before cooking to get a good sear.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth texture in the sauce.
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency without thinning out flavor.
  • Steak can be cooked to preferred doneness; medium-rare is recommended for juiciness.
  • Optional fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the rich dish.

Nutrition

Keywords: steak bites, shell pasta, garlic butter alfredo sauce, creamy pasta, easy dinner, steak pasta recipe