Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta

Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender steak with creamy pasta, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, this recipe stands out with its rich flavors and satisfying textures. The savory garlic herb-infused steak cubes complement the luscious shell pasta, creating a comforting and delicious experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish can be made in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of fresh garlic, thyme, and smoked paprika elevates the taste of the steak cubes.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or pair it with a salad for a complete meal suitable for any occasion.
• Creamy Goodness: The creamy sauce enveloping the shell pasta provides a luxurious mouthfeel everyone will enjoy.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or substitute proteins to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process and make for an enjoyable experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cooking spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for searing meat and creating flavorful sauces simultaneously.
• Cooking spoon: Helps in mixing ingredients thoroughly without damaging the food.

Ingredients

For the Steak Bites:
* 1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 2 tbsp olive oil
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 4 tbsp butter
* 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
* 1 tsp smoked paprika
* 1/2 tsp salt
* 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Gnocchi:
* 8 oz shell pasta
* 2 tbsp olive oil
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 2 tbsp butter
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 tsp salt
* 1/8 tsp black pepper
* 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

How to Make Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Shell Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shell pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving a splash of the cooking water, and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak Cubes

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
* Add the steak cubes in a single layer.
* Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
* Sear the steak for about 4–5 minutes, flipping to brown all sides until just cooked through.
Transfer the steak bites to a plate and keep warm.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and melt butter in the same skillet.
* Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir constantly to avoid burning.
* Toss in thyme leaves and stir briefly to infuse the butter.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Reduce heat to low and add cooked shell pasta directly into the skillet.
* Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and remaining butter.
Toss until the sauce is silky and coats the pasta thoroughly.
Add reserved pasta water if you prefer a looser consistency.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

Return steak bites to skillet and gently fold them into pasta and sauce.
Let everything warm together for a minute or two.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Just before serving, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and a pinch of black pepper.

Enjoy your Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta!

How to Serve Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta

Serving Garlic Herb Steak Cubes with Creamy Shell Pasta can elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta and steak.

Add Crusty Bread

• Serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce. This adds a satisfying crunch and enhances the meal.

Garnish with Extra Herbs

• Sprinkle additional fresh herbs like basil or chives on top before serving for an extra pop of flavor and color.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Present the dish in individual bowls for a more elegant touch. This makes it perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.

Accompany with Grated Cheese

• Offer extra grated Parmesan cheese on the side so guests can add more cheese to their liking, enhancing the creamy texture of the pasta.

How to Perfect Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta

To make your Garlic Herb Steak Cubes with Creamy Shell Pasta even more delightful, consider these helpful tips.

• Use high-quality steak: Choosing tender sirloin steak ensures juicy, flavorful bites that stand out in this dish.

• Don’t overcook the steak: Sear your steak cubes just until they are browned on all sides. This keeps them tender and juicy.

• Reserve pasta water: Keep some cooking water aside; adding it can help adjust the sauce’s consistency without losing flavor.

• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to mix different fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano along with thyme for added depth of flavor.

• Serve immediately: The dish is best enjoyed fresh off the stove. The creamy sauce thickens as it sits, so serve promptly for optimal texture.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta

Pairing side dishes with Garlic Herb Steak Cubes with Creamy Shell Pasta can enhance your meal further. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A colorful mix of seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil and garlic brings vibrant flavors to the table.

2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta dish.

3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing adds crunch and creaminess that pairs well with steak and pasta.

4. Grilled Zucchini: Tender grilled zucchini slices seasoned simply provide a smoky element that complements the rich flavors of the main dish.

5. Herbed Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa cooked with fresh herbs makes a nutritious side that pairs well without overpowering the meal’s primary flavors.

6. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach with garlic can add both nutrition and a lovely green color to your plate.

7. Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw dressed in a light mayo-based sauce provides a tangy contrast to the richness of the pasta.

8. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes offer heartiness and texture that rounds out your meal nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Underseasoning the Steak: Many people forget to season their steak cubes well before cooking. Always ensure you add enough salt and spices to enhance the meat’s natural flavor.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta for too long can lead to a mushy texture. Always follow package instructions and check for al dente doneness.
• Not Resting the Steak: Skipping the resting period after cooking the steak can result in tough bites. Allow your steak cubes to rest for a few minutes before serving for better juiciness.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold cream or cheese directly from the fridge can cause a temperature shock, leading to a clumpy sauce. Let them sit at room temperature for a bit before using them.
• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Relying solely on dried herbs can dull the dish’s flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley and thyme brighten up your Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• item Use within 3 days for best quality.

Freezing Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta

• item Portion out into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• item Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen up the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta.

Can I use other cuts of beef instead of sirloin?

Yes! Cuts like ribeye or flank steak will work well too. Just ensure they are cut into similar-sized cubes.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream or cashew cream as alternatives if you’re looking for a lighter option.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta gluten-free, simply use gluten-free shell pasta available at most grocery stores.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best fresh, you can prepare components like steak cubes and sauce separately in advance and combine them just before serving.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Herb Steak Cubes With Creamy Shell Pasta is an appealing and versatile dish perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a family favorite, while customization options like adding vegetables or changing proteins keep it exciting. Don’t hesitate to try this delicious recipe!