Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta With Garlic Butter Steak Cubes

Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta With Garlic Butter Steak Cubes is a delightful dish that brings together the richness of creamy pasta and tender steak, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This recipe combines savory flavors with a comforting texture that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself after a long day, this dish is sure to impress with its deliciousness and ease of preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: The recipe uses common ingredients you might already have on hand, making it easy to whip up any time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic butter and Parmesan creates a rich flavor profile that elevates the entire meal.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.
• Quick Cooking Time: With a total time of only 30 minutes, you can enjoy a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Kid-Friendly: Creamy pasta is always a hit with kids, making this dish a great choice for family meals.

Tools and Preparation

To create this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need some essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Ideal for searing the steak and creating the flavorful garlic butter sauce.
• Colander: Helps drain the pasta efficiently, ensuring perfect texture for your creamy shells.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Steak Cubes:

• 1 lb sirloin or flank steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Parmesan Shells:

• 8 oz pasta shells
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta With Garlic Butter Steak Cubes

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Steak

Season your steak pieces generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil until shimmering.
– Arrange the steak in a single layer, letting each piece develop a nice crust—this takes about 3-4 minutes per side.
– Once browned and cooked through, remove the steak from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Make Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt, then stir in the minced garlic and thyme.
– Cook for about a minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
– Return the steak bites to the pan and toss to coat in garlic butter. Set aside off heat.

Step 4: Create Creamy Sauce

Wipe out any burnt bits from the skillet if needed, then melt more butter over medium heat. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes.
– Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking to combine.
– Let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir until cheese melts completely and sauce is smooth. Adjust with salt and pepper to taste.
– Add drained pasta shells to creamy sauce; toss until fully coated.
– Fold in garlic butter steak bites, combining everything just until warmed through.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

This Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta With Garlic Butter Steak Cubes offers an incredible blend of flavors that will satisfy any appetite! Enjoy your delicious creation!

How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta With Garlic Butter Steak Cubes

Serving Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta with Garlic Butter Steak Cubes can elevate your dinner experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this dish that will impress your family and friends.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the pasta.

Add Grilled Vegetables

• Charred zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add a smoky flavor and vibrant color that enhance the dish’s appeal.

Serve with Garlic Bread

• Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce and adds a satisfying crunch.

Top with Extra Parmesan

• A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top brings an extra layer of richness and flavor to each bite.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley or basil sprinkled on top not only adds visual appeal but also freshens up the dish.

How to Perfect Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta With Garlic Butter Steak Cubes

To achieve the best version of Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta With Garlic Butter Steak Cubes, follow these helpful tips for perfect results every time.

• Choose quality ingredients: Using fresh herbs and high-quality Parmesan cheese makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Cook steak just right: Aim for medium-rare to ensure tenderness; overcooking can make it tough.
• Don’t skip salting: Seasoning both the steak and pasta water enhances overall flavor; don’t be shy with salt.
• Adjust creaminess: If you prefer a richer sauce, feel free to add more heavy cream or Parmesan cheese as desired.
• Let flavors meld: Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes before adding pasta and steak; this intensifies the flavors.
• Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh; leftovers may lose their creamy texture.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta With Garlic Butter Steak Cubes

Complementing your Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta With Garlic Butter Steak Cubes is easy when you choose delicious side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli
   Tender broccoli florets roasted with olive oil and minced garlic create a healthy and flavorful side.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.

3. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn grilled to perfection adds a burst of flavor that pairs well with the richness of the dish.

4. Steamed Green Beans
   Lightly steamed green beans tossed in lemon juice offer brightness and balance while being easy to prepare.

5. Caprese Salad
   Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction add freshness and color.

6. Roasted Potatoes
   Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs yield a comforting side that complements any pasta dish nicely.

7. Mushroom Risotto
   Creamy risotto infused with mushrooms provides an additional layer of richness that matches well with steak cubes.

8. Antipasto Platter
   An assortment of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables offers variety and is great for sharing before the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta with Garlic Butter Steak Cubes, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Using overcooked pasta: Overcooking your pasta shells can lead to a mushy texture. Always cook them al dente according to the package instructions for the best results.
• Not seasoning adequately: Failing to season the steak and sauce can result in bland flavors. Don’t forget to season generously with salt and pepper at different stages of cooking.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh thyme adds depth to your garlic butter steak cubes. If you use dried thyme instead, do so sparingly, as it is more concentrated.
• Adding cheese too early: Adding Parmesan cheese too soon can cause it to clump instead of melt smoothly. Always add cheese toward the end of cooking for a creamy sauce.
• Neglecting to toss ingredients properly: Not mixing the steak cubes with the pasta thoroughly may leave some portions dry. Make sure everything is well combined for uniform flavor.
• Not letting the garlic sauté properly: Cooking garlic too quickly can result in bitterness. Sauté it gently until fragrant but not browned.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Use within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta With Garlic Butter Steak Cubes

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Use within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta With Garlic Butter Steak Cubes

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer serving size to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of chicken broth or water. Stir in pasta until warmed, adding more liquid if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta with Garlic Butter Steak Cubes.

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute sirloin or flank steak with chicken or turkey for a lighter option while still enjoying great flavor.

How do I make it vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, omit the steak and add vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini along with plant-based protein alternatives.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Just combine them before serving and warm them up together.

What should I serve with Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta With Garlic Butter Steak Cubes?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add your favorite veggies or switch up the herbs based on your preference. You could even experiment with different cheeses!

Final Thoughts

Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta with Garlic Butter Steak Cubes is not only delicious but also versatile. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this creamy pasta dish is sure to please. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients!