Juicy Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shells
This easy recipe features tender garlic butter steak bites served alongside creamy Parmesan shells, making for a comforting and flavorful weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Steak Bites
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes Tender, juicy morsels that soak up all the delicious flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Adds richness and helps to sear the meat perfectly.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter For a rich and creamy finish to the steak.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Aromatic and flavorful, bringing warmth to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped Adds an earthy note that complements the meat.
- Salt and pepper to taste Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley for garnish A bright touch of color and freshness.
Creamy Parmesan Shells
- 8 oz shell pasta The ideal shape for trapping the creamy sauce.
- 1 tablespoon butter Additional creaminess for the pasta.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing garlic to a fragrant perfection.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Repeating the love for garlic in the creamy shells.
- 1 cup heavy cream To create a rich, velvety sauce that clings to the pasta.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Salty, nutty cheese that elevates the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder Intensifies the garlic flavor in the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste Ensuring every bite is perfectly seasoned.
- Fresh parsley for garnish Adding a pop of color to the creamy dish.
Instructions
Preparation of Steak Bites
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak cubes generously with salt and pepper.
- Once the skillet is hot, add the steak cubes and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness.
- Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic and thyme, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Return the steak to the skillet, toss in the garlic butter mixture, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Preparation of Creamy Parmesan Shells
- Cook the shell pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream and garlic powder, bringing to a gentle simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly while seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
For best results, use high-quality ingredients. Allow steak to rest after cooking for better juiciness. Common mistakes include cooking steak at too low a temperature, overcooking, adding cheese too quickly, and underseasoning the dish.