Easy Steak Bites Alfredo Pasta: Creamy Garlic Butter Shells

Steak Bites And Shell Pasta In Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce is more than just a meal; it’s an experience waiting to unfold on your dinner table, promising comfort and gourmet delight in every forkful.

Prepare to Indulge in Unforgettable Flavor and Comfort

Imagine succulent, perfectly seared bites of tender steak, each piece a burst of rich flavor, nestled among delicate shell pasta. Now, picture all of this generously coated in a decadent, homemade garlic butter alfredo sauce that’s so creamy, aromatic, and utterly luxurious, it will instantly become a new family favorite. This dish effortlessly combines the robust elegance of a steak dinner with the comforting embrace of pasta, creating a truly unforgettable symphony of textures and tastes.

While the classic Alfredo sauce, a timeless testament to simple yet profound culinary brilliance, finds its roots in early 20th-century Rome, this particular creation elevates that beloved foundation. We’re building upon tradition by introducing tender, savory steak bites and infusing the sauce with even more aromatic garlic and rich butter, transforming a beloved classic into something truly extraordinary and uniquely satisfying.

People absolutely adore this dish not just for its incredible flavor profile – the savory steak perfectly complementing the rich, garlicky cream sauce – but also for its satisfying texture and surprising convenience. It’s hearty enough to satiate any appetite, yet feels gourmet and special enough for any occasion. Whether you’re seeking a comforting weeknight meal or a show-stopping dish to impress your guests, our Steak Bites And Shell Pasta In Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce recipe promises to deliver pure culinary joy. I invite you to discover the magic of this irresistible combination!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Steak Bites:
  • 1.5 lbs (approximately 680g) high-quality steak, such as sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip, trimmed of excess fat and cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes. I highly recommend using a good marbling steak for the best flavor and tenderness.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, preferably extra virgin, for searing.
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced or finely grated.
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning.
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, but adds a lovely depth).
  • Salt, to taste (I prefer coarse sea salt or kosher salt).
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish.
• For the Shell Pasta:
  • 1 lb (approximately 450g) medium-sized shell pasta (conchiglie). You could also use orecchiette or cavatappi if shells aren’t available, but I find shells cup the sauce beautifully.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for adding to boiling water to prevent sticking).
  • Salt, for pasta water (don’t be shy here; it should taste like the sea!).
• For the Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cut into pieces.
  • 6-8 cloves garlic, minced or finely grated (yes, lots of garlic for that amazing flavor!).
  • 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream (full-fat is essential for that rich, velvety texture).
  • 1.5 cups (about 150g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving. Using freshly grated cheese is a non-negotiable for a smooth, lump-free sauce. Pre-shredded often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce gritty.
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning, or a pinch of dried oregano and basil.
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated if possible (this secret ingredient truly elevates Alfredo).
  • Salt, to taste.
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste.
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) reserved pasta water, plus more if needed.
• Optional Garnishes:
  • Fresh parsley, finely chopped.
  • Red pepper flakes, for a hint of heat.
  • Extra grated Parmesan cheese.

Phase 1: Preparing the Steak Bites

1. Prepping the Steak for Optimal Searing

   First things first, let’s get our steak ready. Take your chosen steak (sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip work wonderfully for their flavor and tenderness), and make sure it’s trimmed of any excessive fat or gristle. Then, cut it into uniform 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes. Uniformity is key here so that all the pieces cook evenly. Once cut, transfer the steak pieces to a plate lined with paper towels and pat them thoroughly dry. This step is incredibly important! Any moisture on the surface will steam the meat instead of allowing it to develop that beautiful, crispy sear we’re after, which is crucial for delicious Steak Bites And Shell Pasta In Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce.

2. Seasoning the Steak

   In a medium bowl, toss the dried steak cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, the dried Italian seasoning, smoked paprika (if you’re using it – it adds a lovely smoky note!), a generous pinch of salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Make sure every piece is nicely coated. Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes while you get your pan hot. This allows the seasoning to penetrate slightly and helps the meat cook more evenly.

3. Searing the Steak Bites to Perfection

   Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron or stainless steel works best) over medium-high to high heat. You want it really hot before adding the steak. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the unsalted butter to the pan. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, carefully add the seasoned steak bites in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan! If you put too many pieces in at once, the temperature of the pan will drop, and the steak will steam rather than sear, which we absolutely want to avoid for our Steak Bites And Shell Pasta In Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce. Cook the steak in batches if necessary, giving each batch plenty of space.

   Sear for 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare to medium doneness, turning each piece to get an even sear on all sides. You’re looking for a beautiful brown crust. In the last minute of cooking the final batch, add the minced garlic to the pan and toss it with the steak bites for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Remove the steak bites from the pan and set them aside on a plate. You can tent them loosely with foil to keep them warm while you prepare the rest of the dish, allowing them to rest and for their juices to redistribute.

Phase 2: Cooking the Shell Pasta

1. Boiling the Water for Our Shell Pasta

   Grab a large pot and fill it with plenty of water. Place it on high heat. Add a generous amount of salt to the water – it should taste almost as salty as the ocean! This is the only chance you have to season the pasta itself from the inside out, which vastly improves the final flavor of your Steak Bites And Shell Pasta In Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce. You can also add a tablespoon of olive oil to the water, though some chefs argue it’s unnecessary and can make the sauce adhere less effectively. I personally find it helps prevent sticking.

2. Adding the Pasta

   Once the water comes to a rolling boil, add the 1 lb of shell pasta. Stir it immediately to prevent the shells from sticking to each other or the bottom of the pot.

3. Cooking to Al Dente

   Cook the pasta according to the package directions, subtracting about 1-2 minutes from the recommended cooking time. We’re aiming for al dente, which means “to the tooth” – it should be firm but still have a slight bite to it. It will continue to cook slightly when combined with the hot sauce, and we don’t want mushy pasta in our dish!

4. Draining and Reserving Pasta Water

   Before you drain the pasta, make sure to scoop out about 1 to 1.5 cups (240-360ml) of the starchy pasta cooking water. This liquid is gold! It contains starches that will help emulsify our Alfredo sauce, making it incredibly creamy and helping it cling beautifully to the pasta. Drain the remaining pasta in a colander and set it aside. Do not rinse the pasta; rinsing removes the starch that helps the sauce adhere.

Phase 3: Crafting the Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce

1. Starting with Our Aromatic Garlic Butter Base

   In the same skillet you used for the steak (no need to clean it, those browned bits add extra flavor!), melt the 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium-low heat. Once melted, add the 6-8 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and slightly softened. Be very careful not to brown or burn the garlic, as burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the delicate flavor of our Steak Bites And Shell Pasta In Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce. Keep the heat low and stir constantly.

2. Introducing the Heavy Cream

   Slowly pour in the 2 cups of heavy cream, whisking gently to combine it with the garlic butter. Increase the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to thicken slightly. You’ll notice it coats the back of a spoon. This is where the magic begins for our rich Alfredo.

3. Thickening and Seasoning the Sauce

   Reduce the heat to low. Now, add the 1/2 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning and the 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg. The nutmeg is a subtle but absolutely essential ingredient in a classic Alfredo; it truly rounds out the flavors and adds a hint of warmth. Stir to combine.

4. Incorporating the Parmesan Cheese for Silkiness

   Gradually add the 1.5 cups of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a handful at a time, whisking constantly until each addition is fully melted and incorporated before adding more. Keep the heat low during this step! High heat can cause the cheese to clump or become oily. Whisking continuously is key to achieving that perfectly smooth, luscious texture for your sauce. Continue until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is beautifully smooth and creamy.

5. Adjusting Consistency and Final Seasoning

   At this point, the sauce should be thick and glossy. If it’s too thick for your liking, whisk in a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water at a time until you reach your desired consistency. The pasta water not only thins the sauce but also helps bind it, thanks to its starch content. Season the sauce with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Remember, the Parmesan cheese is salty, so taste before adding too much. Aim for a balance of rich, savory, and garlicky flavors.

Phase 4: Bringing It All Together – Assembling Our Steak Bites And Shell Pasta In Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce

1. Combining Pasta and Sauce

   Add the drained shell pasta directly into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Use tongs or a large spoon to gently toss the pasta, ensuring every shell is thoroughly coated in the luxurious, creamy sauce. The warmth of the pasta will help the sauce cling even better.

2. Adding the Steak Bites

   Carefully fold in the reserved steak bites with their accumulated juices. The juices from the steak will add another layer of incredible flavor to your dish. Toss gently again, making sure the steak bites are evenly distributed throughout the pasta.

3. A Final Check on Consistency

   If the sauce seems too thick after adding the pasta and steak, feel free to add a little more of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches that perfect, creamy consistency that coats everything beautifully. You want it rich but still flowing.

Phase 5: Serving Suggestions and Garnish

1. Plating Your Masterpiece

   Serve the Steak Bites And Shell Pasta In Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce immediately in warm bowls. This dish is best enjoyed fresh off the stove when the sauce is at its creamiest and the steak bites are still warm and tender.

2. The Finishing Touches

   Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh, finely chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. If you like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be a wonderful addition. And of course, offer extra freshly grated Parmesan cheese at the table for those who simply can’t get enough.

3. Enjoying Your Creation

   Take a moment to savor the aroma – the garlic, the creamy Parmesan, the perfectly cooked steak. This dish is truly a symphony of flavors and textures, from the tender steak bites to the perfectly al dente shell pasta, all enrobed in that rich, luscious garlic butter Alfredo sauce. It’s comfort food at its finest, elevated for a special meal or simply a delightful evening at home. Enjoy every single bite of your homemade Steak Bites And Shell Pasta In Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce!

Conclusion:

There’s something truly magical about a dish that effortlessly combines comfort, elegance, and incredible flavor. I genuinely believe that once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a cherished staple in your culinary repertoire. We’ve journeyed through the steps of creating a dish that isn’t just food, but an experience – one that promises to delight your senses with every single bite. The tender, perfectly seared steak bites, glistening with their rich, savory crust, are the undeniable stars, offering a satisfying chew and a burst of protein-packed goodness. When paired with the perfectly al dente shell pasta, designed to cradle every drop of that luscious, velvety garlic butter Alfredo sauce, the synergy is simply unparalleled. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes, where the robust beefiness of the steak harmonizes beautifully with the creamy, aromatic sauce, creating a depth of flavor that is both comforting and sophisticated. This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a celebration of simple, high-quality ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. I truly can’t emphasize enough how much I adore this particular combination, and I am confident that you will, too. This dish is perfect for those evenings when you crave something special but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, proving that gourmet flavors are absolutely achievable at home. It’s the kind of meal that makes everyone at the table smile, a true crowd-pleaser that satisfies even the most discerning palates. And let me be clear, when I talk about the absolute joy of cooking, this dish, our incredible Steak Bites And Shell Pasta In Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce, is exactly what I have in mind. It’s a testament to how fantastic home cooking can be.

Now that you’ve mastered the art of creating this sensational meal, let’s talk about how to elevate your dining experience even further or how to adapt it to your specific tastes and occasions. While this dish is undeniably a complete meal on its own, I find that a fresh, crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette makes for a wonderful counterpoint, cutting through the richness of the Alfredo sauce and adding a refreshing textural element. Think mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and perhaps some thinly sliced red onion. Another classic accompaniment that I highly recommend is a basket of warm, crusty garlic bread or focaccia. It’s not just for soaking up every last drop of that amazing sauce – which, let’s be honest, you’ll want to do – but also for adding another layer of comforting flavor and texture to your plate. If you’re looking to incorporate more vegetables directly into the dish, consider sautéing some fresh spinach, thinly sliced mushrooms, or even sun-dried tomatoes with your steak bites before adding the pasta and sauce. These additions will not only boost the nutritional value but also introduce new dimensions of flavor and color, making the dish even more vibrant and appealing. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes stirred into the sauce can provide a delightful kick. Experiment with different cheeses too! While Parmesan is traditional and fantastic, a sprinkle of Pecorino Romano could add a sharper, saltier note, or a touch of Asiago could lend a nuttier undertone. Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own!

Thinking about making this ahead? You absolutely can! Prepare the steak bites and the Alfredo sauce separately, then gently combine and warm them through with freshly cooked pasta just before serving. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep or for entertaining, allowing you to enjoy your guests without being tied to the stove. Leftovers, should you be so lucky to have any, are also incredibly delicious; simply reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess. You could even transform leftovers into a delightful baked pasta dish the next day, topped with extra cheese and baked until bubbly and golden. The possibilities are truly endless when you have such a versatile and flavorful base to work with. My ultimate goal is for you to feel empowered and creative in your kitchen.

So, now it’s your turn! I’ve shared my passion and the step-by-step process for creating what I genuinely believe is a truly unforgettable meal. I wholeheartedly encourage you to roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and give this Steak Bites And Shell Pasta In Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce recipe a try in your own kitchen. There’s immense satisfaction to be found in cooking something delicious from scratch, especially a dish that brings so much joy and comfort. Don’t be intimidated; the process is straightforward, and the reward is absolutely worth every moment of effort. I truly believe that you have everything you need to create a magnificent culinary masterpiece right at home. Once you’ve experienced the delightful flavors and textures of this dish, I would be absolutely thrilled to hear about your experience!

Did you make any exciting variations? What did your family and friends think? Did you pair it with a specific wine or a unique side dish? I love seeing your creations and hearing your stories. Please don’t hesitate to share your thoughts, photos, and any creative twists you added in the comments section below, or by tagging us on social media. Your feedback and personal touches are what make this culinary community so vibrant and inspiring. It truly warms my heart to know that recipes I share are bringing deliciousness into your homes. This isn’t just about following instructions; it’s about igniting a love for cooking and creating memorable dining moments. So, go forth, cook with confidence and joy, and savor every magnificent bite!

Steak Bites And Shell Pasta In Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce

Succulent steak bites and shell pasta coated in a rich, creamy, homemade garlic butter Alfredo sauce. A comforting and gourmet dish perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time
15 Minutes

Cook Time
30 Minutes

Total Time
45 Minutes

Servings
3 servings

Ingredients

• 12 oz steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 8 oz shell pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 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
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• Reserved pasta water (as needed)

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Pat 12 oz steak dry, season with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak bites in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. In the last minute of cooking the final batch, add 2 cloves minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Remove steak and set aside.
2. Step 2
   Boil heavily salted water. Add 8 oz shell pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of starchy pasta water before draining. Do not rinse the pasta.
3. Step 3
   In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tbsp unsalted butter and 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the remaining 2 cloves minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (1-2 minutes), being careful not to brown or burn.
4. Step 4
   Whisk in 1 cup heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to thicken slightly.
5. Step 5
   Reduce heat to low. Gradually whisk in 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a handful at a time, until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, whisk in some reserved pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until desired creamy consistency is reached.
6. Step 6
   Add the drained pasta and the seared steak bites (with any accumulated juices) directly into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is well-coated. Serve immediately, garnished with 2 tbsp fresh parsley (if using) and extra grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.