Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that’s indulgently creamy, packed with rich flavors, and downright comforting, you need to try this Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce. Tender, juicy steak bites perfectly seared to lock in flavor mingle with delicate shell pasta that soaks up every luscious drop of garlicky butter and Parmesan cream. This dish effortlessly brings restaurant-quality dining to your own kitchen while feeling like a warm hug on a plate. Whether for a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, it promises to satisfy your craving for something hearty and special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the perfect balance in Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce is all about simple, essential ingredients working together. Each brings a unique element—whether it’s the buttery richness, the fresh garlic punch, or the melt-in-your-mouth steak—that creates a dish loaded with flavor and comfort.

• 12 oz steak (ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon): Choose a tender cut for juicy, flavorful bites that cook quickly.
• 8 oz shell pasta: The perfect shape to cradle the creamy Alfredo sauce in every nook and cranny.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: For a golden sear on the steak that locks in juices and adds depth.
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter: The star of the sauce, giving it smooth richness and silky texture.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Freshly minced for a bright, aromatic punch throughout the dish.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the creamy base of the Alfredo that clings perfectly to both steak and pasta.
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty flavor that makes the sauce irresistible.
• Salt, to taste: Enhances all the flavors and balances the creaminess.
• Black pepper, to taste: Adds a gentle kick to complement the buttery sauce and tender steak.
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Brightens the dish with a pop of color and freshness.
• Reserved pasta water (as needed): A sneaky trick to loosen the sauce without losing creaminess or flavor.

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

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cooking the shell pasta until just al dente—meaning it’s tender but still has a slight chew. This texture is important because the pasta will continue to cook slightly when fully combined with the sauce. Reserve about half a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining; this will help you adjust the sauce later for the perfect silky consistency.

Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites

Pat the steak pieces dry to ensure a nice crust when seared. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the steak bites in a single layer without overcrowding the pan. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until beautifully browned and medium-rare or cooked to your preference. Remove the steak and set it aside—those flavorful browned bits left on the pan are going to add so much to the sauce.

Step 3: Craft the Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can add bitterness. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently. Gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens and becomes luxuriously creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve the ideal smooth, silky texture.

Step 4: Combine Steak, Pasta, and Sauce

Return the seared steak bites to the skillet, gently tossing to coat them with that flavorful Alfredo sauce. Then add the cooked shell pasta, making sure every piece is coated in the garlicky, buttery goodness. Let everything simmer together for a minute to marry the flavors and heat through evenly.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Garnish

Taste and adjust with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley if you’re using it, for a burst of color and fresh herbaceous notes that perfectly offset the richness of the sauce.

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

Garnishes

Serving with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a few fresh parsley leaves instantly elevates the dish’s presentation and adds an extra layer of flavor. You might also consider a tiny drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you want a touch of heat.

Side Dishes

This indulgent meal pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables to provide a refreshing contrast. Crusty garlic bread is a classic partner, perfect for mopping up any leftover Alfredo sauce on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun dinner party, serve the steak bites atop a bed of the shell pasta alfresco style or in elegant individual bowls garnished with microgreens. You can also portion it into shallow ramekins and broil briefly with a dusting of Parmesan for a golden, bubbly crust on top—an impressive twist that guests will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools; don’t worry, it’s easy to revive with gentle reheating.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you must freeze, separate the steak and pasta from the sauce once cooled and freeze components individually. The cream sauce does not freeze well on its own due to texture changes, so it’s better to freeze the cooked steak and pasta separately in freezer-safe bags for up to one month.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen components overnight in the fridge and warm gently over low heat with a splash of cream, milk, or reserved pasta water to restore the sauce’s creamy texture. Avoid high heat which can cause the cream to separate. Stir frequently until heated through and creamy again.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta with this dish?

Absolutely! While shell pasta is perfect for catching the Alfredo sauce, penne, fettuccine, or even farfalle can make great substitutes depending on what you have on hand.

What’s the best cut of steak for this recipe?

Tender cuts like ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon work best because they cook quickly and stay juicy in bite-sized pieces, providing a delicious contrast to the creamy sauce.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

You can use plant-based butter, cream substitutes like coconut cream, and dairy-free Parmesan alternatives, though the flavor will differ slightly. The garlic butter Alfredo sauce relies on richness, so choose substitutes that offer creaminess.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can cook the pasta and sear the steak ahead and keep them separate in the fridge. Make the sauce just before serving and combine everything for best texture and flavor.

How do I prevent the Alfredo sauce from breaking?

Keep the heat moderate and stir frequently while cooking the sauce. Avoid boiling once the cheese is added, and add reserved pasta water gradually to maintain a smooth consistency.

Final Thoughts

Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce is a luxurious yet approachable dish that brings warmth and elegance to your dining table. Once you make it, it’s sure to become one of your favorite go-to meals for when you want something comforting but impressive. So grab your skillet, invite your loved ones, and enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!

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