Garlic Butter Steak Bites (Print View)

Juicy steak bites with garlic butter and creamy cheesy pasta shells make a quick, flavorful main dish.

# Components:

→ Steak Bites

01 - 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
02 - 1 tbsp olive oil
03 - 1 tsp kosher salt
04 - ½ tsp black pepper
05 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
06 - 3 tbsp unsalted butter
07 - 4 garlic cloves, minced
08 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

→ Cheesy Shells

09 - 8 oz medium pasta shells
10 - 2 cups whole milk
11 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
12 - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
13 - 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
14 - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
15 - ½ tsp salt
16 - ¼ tsp black pepper
17 - Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
02 - Pat steak cubes dry with paper towels and toss with olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
03 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak cubes in a single layer and sear for 1 to 2 minutes per side until browned and just cooked through. Remove to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
04 - Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant while scraping browned bits. Return steak bites and juices to skillet, toss with garlic butter and parsley for 30 seconds. Remove from heat.
05 - In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until sauce thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes.
06 - Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. Add drained pasta shells and stir to thoroughly coat.
07 - Plate cheesy shells and top with garlic butter steak bites. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick weeknight dinner
  • Rich, creamy flavors and hearty protein
02 -
  • Contains dairy and gluten—check labels if sensitive.
  • This dish offers about 38 g protein per serving for a hearty meal.
03 -
  • Substitute ribeye or strip steak for extra tenderness.
  • Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach in the pasta for extra flavor.
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