Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce
A deliciously indulgent dish combining tender steak and rich, creamy flavors, perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz steak (ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon), cut into bite-sized pieces Choose high-quality cuts for rich flavor and tenderness.
- 8 oz shell pasta Opt for large shells to hold the creamy sauce.
- 2 tbsp olive oil Adds a fruity richness perfect for cooking.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter Brings a luscious creaminess to the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the dish with aromatic flavors.
- 1 cup heavy cream Creates a velvety, indulgent sauce.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Adds a rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture.
- to taste Salt and black pepper Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
- for garnish Fresh parsley Adds color and freshness to the dish.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Add the shell pasta and cook until al dente, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.
Preparing the Steak
- While the pasta cooks, season the bite-sized steak pieces with salt and black pepper. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned steak and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
Making the Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant—about 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and allow it to come to a gentle simmer. Gradually sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combining and Serving
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. If the mixture is too thick, add some reserved pasta water.
- Place the creamy pasta on plates, topping each serving with the seared steak. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing the steak to achieve a nice crust. Use freshly grated cheese for a smooth sauce. Adjust seasoning to match your taste.