Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting yet sophisticated meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender, juicy steak bites nestled next to perfectly cooked shell pasta, all smothered in a rich, creamy garlic butter Alfredo sauce with just the right hint of Italian herbs. It’s a dish that brings together bold flavors with silky textures, making every bite a celebration for your taste buds. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a special occasion dinner, this recipe promises both ease and indulgence in every forkful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering a handful of simple yet high-quality ingredients is all it takes to create this mouthwatering recipe. Each item plays a key role in crafting the creamy sauce, tender steak, and perfectly textured pasta that make this dish a standout.

• 1 pound sirloin steak: Choose a tender cut for juicy, flavorful steak bites that cook quickly.
• 8 ounces shell pasta: The perfect shape to hold onto the creamy Alfredo sauce, making each bite luscious.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: Adds richness and helps create that velvety sauce base.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth and savory warmth.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Provides the creamy foundation that makes the Alfredo so indulgent.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a sharp, savory finish.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate every ingredient.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that brings melody and herbaceous notes.
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish: A fresh, bright touch to finish the dish beautifully.

How to Make Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the shell pasta. Cooking it just right—al dente—gives a slight bite that holds up against the creamy sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, ready to soak up all the luscious flavors.

Step 2: Season the Steak Bites

While the pasta cooks, generously season your sirloin steak pieces with salt and pepper on all sides. This simple step is crucial for building that savory crust that makes steak bites so satisfying.

Step 3: Sear Steak Bites to Perfection

Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When melted and shimmering, lay in the steak bites without crowding the pan. Sear for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, aiming for that perfect golden brown exterior with a juicy, tender interior. Once done, transfer the steak bites to a plate and let them rest.

Step 4: Sauté Garlic in Butter

In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and your minced garlic. Cook gently for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic’s fragrance fills the kitchen—but be sure it doesn’t brown, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.

Step 5: Simmer the Cream

Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir constantly to blend the flavors, letting the cream gently simmer and thicken slightly—this step is where your Alfredo begins to take shape.

Step 6: Mix in Parmesan and Seasonings

Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts completely into the cream, creating a smooth and velvety sauce. Stir in the Italian seasoning, and adjust salt and pepper to taste. This seasoning layer gives your sauce that irresistible Italian flair.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked shell pasta into the skillet, tossing carefully so every little shell is coated with the creamy Alfredo goodness. The pasta becomes the perfect vehicle for the rich sauce and steak bites.

Step 8: Add Steak Bites Back In

Gently fold the seared steak bites into the pasta and sauce, making sure everything is evenly mixed and heated through. This final mix ensures each forkful delivers meat, pasta, and sauce in perfect harmony.

Step 9: Serve with a Fresh Garnish

Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top. The parsley adds a pop of color and a bit of freshness that balances the indulgence of the dish, creating a gorgeous final presentation.

How to Serve Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a simple yet stunning garnish, providing a vibrant contrast to the creamy sauce. You can also add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat and texture.

Side Dishes

This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with crisp, green salads dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are fantastic for mopping up any leftover Alfredo sauce on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls or pasta plates, arranging the steak bites artfully on top. Consider adding a lemon wedge on the side to offer a fresh zing if someone wants a brighter finish to their meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce Recipe into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to enjoy again with minimal quality loss.

Freezing

While freezing this dish is possible, keep in mind that creamy Alfredo sauce can separate upon thawing. To freeze, cool completely and seal well, but it’s best consumed fresh or within a couple of days refrigerated.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if it’s thickened. Stir often to keep the sauce smooth and prevent sticking or scorching. Microwave reheating is possible but do so in short bursts and stir frequently.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak for the steak bites?

Absolutely! While sirloin is tender and works wonderfully, cuts like ribeye or filet mignon also make excellent steak bites if you prefer a richer or more buttery texture.

Is shell pasta the best choice for this recipe?

Shell pasta is ideal because its cup shape cradles the Alfredo sauce beautifully. However, other pastas like penne or fusilli will work just fine if you’re in a pinch.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative, use coconut cream or cashew cream in place of heavy cream, and try nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

Can I prepare parts of this dish ahead of time?

You can cook and season the steak bites ahead and keep them refrigerated. Pasta and sauce are best made fresh, but you can pre-measure ingredients to speed up the process.

What wine pairs well with Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce Recipe?

A medium-bodied red like Merlot or a full-bodied white like Chardonnay complements the creamy texture and savory steak beautifully, balancing richness with bright acidity.

Final Thoughts

This Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes that feels special but is surprisingly simple to prepare. It brings together the rich, comforting flavors we all crave with the kind of fresh touches that keep it balanced and exciting. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a go-to favorite you’ll love sharing with friends and family over and over again.

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