Let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: steak bites and shell pasta in garlic butter alfredo sauce. This dish is like a warm hug on a plate! Picture tender, juicy steak bites mingling with perfectly cooked shell pasta, all enveloped in a rich and creamy garlic butter alfredo sauce. It’s hearty, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious! I remember the first time I made it for my family; we were all gathered around the table, laughter filling the air as we dug into the creamy goodness. Trust me, this is a recipe you’ll want to keep close – it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that warms the heart and soul!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this mouthwatering steak bites and shell pasta in garlic butter alfredo sauce. Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to a delicious meal!
- 1 lb steak, cubed
- 8 oz shell pasta
- 1/2 cup butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking—this dish comes together quickly, and you won’t want to be scrambling for ingredients mid-way through!
How to Prepare Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce
Ready to dive into a creamy, dreamy world of flavor? Let’s get cooking! This dish is straightforward and absolutely satisfying, so grab your apron and let’s get started!
Cooking the Pasta
First up, we need to get that shell pasta cooked to perfection! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add in the 8 oz of shell pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until they’re al dente. You want them slightly firm, as they’ll soak up some sauce later. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to keep them from sticking together. Once done, drain and set aside, but don’t rinse them! We want that starch to help the sauce cling beautifully later on.
Preparing the Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce
Now, for the star of the show! In a large skillet, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Once it’s nice and bubbly, toss in those 4 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about a minute until your kitchen smells divine! Then, it’s time to add the cubed steak. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring regularly, until all sides are browned and your steak is cooked to your liking. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens! Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until it’s all melted and creamy. If it seems a bit thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash more cream!
Combining Ingredients
Time to bring it all together! Gently fold the cooked shell pasta into the skillet with the sauce, stirring until every shell is beautifully coated in that luscious garlic butter alfredo goodness. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good mix and let it sit on low heat for a minute to meld all those flavors. I love to garnish with fresh parsley right before serving for a pop of color and freshness. Trust me, you’ll want to dig in right away!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a quick and easy meal, perfect for busy weeknights!
- The combination of tender steak bites and creamy shell pasta is simply irresistible.
- Garlic butter alfredo sauce brings a depth of flavor that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
- This dish is hearty and satisfying, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
- You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the garlic to suit your taste.
- It’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup for you—yay!
- Leftovers are just as delicious, making it a great option for meal prep!
Tips for Success
To make your steak bites and shell pasta in garlic butter alfredo sauce truly shine, here are some handy tips! First, choose a tender cut of steak like sirloin or ribeye for the best flavor and texture. Don’t be afraid to season your steak generously with salt and pepper before cooking—it makes a world of difference!
If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to adjust the amount of garlic to your taste. Want a milder flavor? Try less garlic or sauté it for a shorter time. As for the pasta, remember to cook it just until al dente; you want it to hold up against the creamy sauce.
Lastly, don’t rush the sauce! Letting it simmer gently allows the flavors to meld beautifully. And of course, taste as you go—it’s the best way to ensure it’s just right! Trust me, these little touches will elevate your dish to the next level!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about the nutritional side of this delightful dish! Each serving of steak bites and shell pasta in garlic butter alfredo sauce roughly contains:
- Calories: 600
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients you choose to use. It’s always a good idea to adjust based on your dietary needs and preferences!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making steak bites and shell pasta in garlic butter alfredo sauce? Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that might pop up while cooking this delicious dish.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While shell pasta is perfect for holding onto that creamy sauce, you can swap it for any pasta you love—penne or fettuccine work great too!
What cut of steak is best for this recipe?
I recommend using tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye. They cook quickly and are full of flavor, making your steak bites melt-in-your-mouth delicious!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time, but I suggest mixing them just before serving to keep everything fresh and creamy.
How can I make this dish healthier?
You can lighten it up by using less butter, opting for a lower-fat cream, or adding in some veggies like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition!
What should I serve with this dish?
A simple side salad or some garlic bread pairs wonderfully with steak bites and shell pasta in garlic butter alfredo sauce, creating a complete meal that’s sure to impress!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you find yourself with leftovers after enjoying your steak bites and shell pasta in garlic butter alfredo sauce, don’t worry! You can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing it up—this helps prevent any moisture buildup.
When you’re ready to indulge again, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You might want to add a splash of cream or a little bit of butter to revive that creamy texture. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it can make the sauce separate. Enjoy every delicious bite again!
Serving Suggestions
To create a truly delightful meal alongside your steak bites and shell pasta in garlic butter alfredo sauce, I love to serve a fresh, crisp salad. A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette is perfect to balance the richness of the dish. You might also consider some warm garlic bread on the side to soak up that luscious sauce—trust me, it’s a game-changer! If you’re feeling adventurous, a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts adds a wonderful touch of color and flavor. Enjoy your meal to the fullest!
Print
Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce Bliss
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Steak bites and shell pasta in garlic butter alfredo sauce is a hearty dish that combines tender steak with pasta in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb steak, cubed
- 8 oz shell pasta
- 1/2 cup butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the shell pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add cubed steak and cook until browned on all sides.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- Adjust garlic according to your taste.
- Use any cut of steak you prefer.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: steak bites, shell pasta, garlic butter alfredo sauce
