Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Parmesan Alfredo Shells is the ultimate weeknight dinner when I’m craving something hearty, creamy, and packed with flavor. Juicy seared steak bites coated in garlic butter pair perfectly with tender pasta shells tossed in a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce. It’s a restaurant-quality meal made right in my kitchen—with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this dish because it brings together bold, savory steak with creamy pasta comfort in every bite. The garlic butter on the steak adds richness, while the Alfredo shells soak up all that cheesy goodness. It’s a balanced, satisfying meal that’s both elegant and easy. Whether I’m cooking for family or impressing guests, this one always delivers.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
for the steak bites:
sirloin steak or ribeye, cut into bite-sized cubes
salt and pepper
olive oil
butter
garlic, minced
fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
for the Alfredo shells:
medium pasta shells
butter
garlic, minced
heavy cream
Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
salt and black pepper
optional: pinch of nutmeg or crushed red pepper
directions
-
Cook the pasta shells:
I boil the shells in salted water according to package instructions. I drain and set them aside while I prepare the sauce and steak. -
Sear the steak bites:
I season the steak cubes with salt and pepper. In a hot skillet, I add olive oil and sear the steak on high heat for about 2–3 minutes per side, until browned and just cooked through. I remove the steak from the pan and set it aside. -
Make the garlic butter:
In the same skillet, I reduce the heat to medium, add butter, and stir in the minced garlic. I cook it for about 1 minute until fragrant. I return the steak bites to the pan and toss them in the garlic butter to coat. -
Prepare the Parmesan Alfredo sauce:
In a separate saucepan, I melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. I pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes. I stir in the Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until melted and smooth. I season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using. -
Combine with pasta:
I toss the cooked pasta shells into the Alfredo sauce and stir until well coated. -
Serve:
I plate the creamy Parmesan shells and top with the garlic butter steak bites. A sprinkle of fresh parsley finishes the dish beautifully.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 generous servings. Prep time is 15 minutes, and cook time is about 25 minutes—ready in under 45 minutes.
Variations
Sometimes I swap out the steak for grilled chicken or shrimp. I’ve also added spinach or mushrooms to the Alfredo sauce for extra depth. For a spicier version, I stir in a dash of crushed red pepper or use Cajun seasoning on the steak bites.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the pasta and steak in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of cream or milk to keep the sauce smooth. I avoid microwaving for too long, as it can overcook the steak.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, I’ve used sirloin, ribeye, and even strip steak. I just make sure it’s tender and not overcooked.
What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?
Shells are great because they hold the sauce, but penne, fettuccine, or bowtie pasta work well too.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
I prep the components ahead (cook the steak and make the sauce), then reheat and combine just before serving for the best texture.
How can I lighten up the Alfredo sauce?
I use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream. The sauce is a little thinner but still rich and flavorful.
Is this dish gluten-free?
It can be! I use gluten-free pasta and double-check that my Parmesan and cream are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Parmesan Alfredo Shells is the perfect dish when I want indulgent flavor with simple, reliable steps. The creamy pasta and buttery steak come together like a dream, and it’s one of those meals that feels special without being fussy. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a date night at home, this recipe always satisfies.
Print
Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Parmesan Alfredo Shells
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40–45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Parmesan Alfredo Shells is a rich, satisfying dinner recipe featuring seared, juicy steak bites tossed in garlicky butter and paired with tender pasta shells coated in a creamy Parmesan Alfredo sauce. This easy weeknight meal tastes like a restaurant favorite, combining bold flavors and comforting textures in under 45 minutes. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy date night in.
Ingredients
- For the steak bites:
- 1 ½ lbs sirloin steak or ribeye, cut into bite-sized cubes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- For the Parmesan Alfredo shells:
- 10 oz medium pasta shells
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of nutmeg or crushed red pepper for added flavor
Instructions
-
Cook the pasta shells:
Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. -
Sear the steak bites:
Season steak cubes with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat. Sear steak for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside. -
Make garlic butter:
Lower the heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for 1 minute. Return steak bites to pan and toss to coat in garlic butter. Remove from heat. -
Prepare Alfredo sauce:
In a separate saucepan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 3–4 minutes. Add Parmesan and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). -
Combine with pasta:
Add cooked pasta shells to the Alfredo sauce and stir to coat evenly. -
Serve:
Plate creamy shells and top with garlic butter steak bites. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use half-and-half or milk to lighten the Alfredo sauce.
- Substitute chicken or shrimp for steak.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies.
- Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick.
- Shells hold the sauce well, but penne or bowtie pasta are great too.
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