Juicy, perfectly seared steak bites served with tender pasta shells coated in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce make this Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shells a comforting dinner the whole family will love. The crispy edges on the steak pair beautifully with the silky, cheesy pasta.
Ingredients
For the Steak Bites
- 1½ lbs sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes, optional
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For the Creamy Parmesan Shells
- 12 oz medium pasta shells
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp salt, or to taste
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Prepare the Steak
Cut the steak into small, evenly sized pieces.
Pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. Season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Toss well to coat.
2. Sear the Steak Bites
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high to high heat.
Add the steak bites in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the skillet; work in batches if necessary.
Sear for approximately 2–3 minutes per side, or until browned on the outside and cooked to your preferred doneness.
Add the butter and minced garlic during the final minute. Toss the steak bites through the garlic butter.
Transfer the steak to a plate and set aside.
3. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the pasta shells and cook according to the package directions until al dente.
Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of pasta water.
Drain the pasta and set aside.
4. Make the Parmesan Sauce
Using the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium.
Add the butter and minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently.
Pour in the heavy cream and add the Italian seasoning and black pepper.
Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 3–4 minutes.
5. Add the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low.
Gradually stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella until melted and smooth.
If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until it reaches a silky consistency.
Taste and adjust the seasoning.
6. Add the Shells
Add the cooked pasta shells to the creamy Parmesan sauce.
Toss gently until every shell is coated.
Cook for another 1–2 minutes over low heat.
7. Combine and Serve
Return the garlic butter steak bites to the skillet.
Gently fold them into the pasta or arrange them over the top.
Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese.
Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Tips for the Best Steak Bites
- Use sirloin or ribeye: Both work well for tender, flavorful steak bites.
- Dry the steak well: Excess moisture prevents a good sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet: This helps the steak develop those delicious browned edges.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts more smoothly into the sauce.
- Don’t boil the cream sauce: Keep the heat gentle to prevent the sauce from separating.
- Reserve pasta water: A splash can loosen the sauce while helping it cling to the shells.
Delicious Variations
Mushroom Steak Bites
Sauté sliced mushrooms after cooking the steak and add them to the Parmesan pasta.
Spicy Version
Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the steak seasoning and sauce.
Garlic Herb Version
Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or additional parsley to the garlic butter.
Extra Cheesy
Add another ½ cup of mozzarella or a little shredded provolone for an extra-rich pasta.
What to Serve With It
Pair this hearty meal with:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted broccoli
- Green beans
- Sautéed asparagus
- Fresh garden salad
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When reheating, add a splash of milk, cream, or broth and warm gently over medium-low heat. This helps restore the creamy consistency of the Parmesan sauce.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Category: Dinner
Cuisine: American / Italian-Inspired
Method: Skillet + Stovetop