Pin it Tender, juicy steak bites seared in garlic butter, paired with creamy, cheesy pasta shells—a quick and satisfying meal perfect for weeknights.
I first made this meal on a chilly evening when I wanted both something hearty and easy to whip up. The way the steak soaks up the garlic butter and mingles with the cheesy shells instantly made it a favorite in my home.
Ingredients
- Sirloin steak: 1 lb (450 g), cut into 1-inch cubes
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Kosher salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Unsalted butter: 3 tbsp for steak, 2 tbsp for sauce
- Garlic cloves: 4, minced
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped
- Pasta shells: 8 oz (225 g), medium size
- Whole milk: 2 cups (480 ml)
- All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups (150 g), shredded
- Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup (50 g), grated
- Salt: 1/2 tsp for cheese sauce
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp for cheese sauce
- Ground nutmeg (optional): Pinch
Instructions
- Cook Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prep & Season Steak:
- Pat steak cubes dry with paper towels. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Sear Steak Bites:
- 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 steak bites to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
- Make Garlic Butter:
- Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, scraping up browned bits. Return steak bites and any juices to the skillet, toss with garlic butter and parsley for 30 seconds. Remove from heat.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add Cheese:
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. Add drained pasta shells and stir to coat.
- Assemble & Serve:
- Serve steak bites over cheesy shells, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
Pin it Whenever I serve this for my family, the plates are always wiped clean and there are happy requests to make it again soon—especially from the kids who love the gooey shells.
Required Tools
Large skillet, saucepan, pot for pasta, knife and cutting board, measuring cups and spoons, whisk.
Allergen Information
Contains milk, cheese, and butter (dairy), and wheat (gluten). Check cheese and pasta labels for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 610 Calories, 34 g Total Fat, 41 g Carbohydrates, 38 g Protein.
Pin it Enjoy these steak bites and cheesy shells hot and fresh for the tastiest experience. Leftovers reheat well for a quick, cozy lunch the next day.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What cut of steak works best for this dish?
Sirloin steak is preferred for its tenderness and flavor, but ribeye or strip steak can be excellent substitutes.
- → How are the steak bites cooked for optimal juiciness?
Steak cubes are seared quickly over medium-high heat, about 1–2 minutes per side, to achieve a browned exterior while keeping the inside tender.
- → How is the creamy cheese sauce prepared for the pasta shells?
A roux is made by cooking butter and flour, then gradually whisking in milk until thickened. Sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese are added to create a smooth, rich sauce.
- → Can I customize the dish with additional ingredients?
Yes, sautéed mushrooms or spinach can be stirred into the pasta for added flavor and nutrition. A pinch of red pepper flakes in the garlic butter adds a spicy kick.
- → What cooking tools are recommended for making this meal?
A large skillet for searing the steak, a saucepan for the cheese sauce, and a pot to cook the pasta are essential. Basic tools like a whisk, knife, and measuring spoons complete the setup.