Description

Craving a bold, hearty, and flavor-packed dinner idea? This Cajun Steak Bites with Cheesy Garlic Shell Pasta Skillet is a one-skillet wonder that combines juicy, seared Cajun-seasoned steak with creamy garlic shell pasta loaded with melted cheddar and parmesan. It’s the perfect easy dinner for weeknights but impressive enough for guests. If you’re on the hunt for quick dinners, easy recipes, or bold food ideas that don’t require a mountain of cleanup—this one’s for you. Comforting, creamy, and just the right amount of spicy.

Ingredients

1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cubed

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp Cajun seasoning

1 tsp smoked paprika

0.5 tsp garlic powder

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 tbsp unsalted butter

8 oz pasta shells

2 tbsp butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup whole milk

1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese

0.25 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Pat the steak cubes dry, then toss them with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let rest at room temperature.

2. Cook pasta shells in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.

3. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and sear steak bites in a single layer, 2–3 minutes per side. Add butter at the end for flavor. Remove and keep warm.

4. In the same skillet, reduce heat and add butter and garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds.

5. Add heavy cream and milk, scraping up browned bits. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.

6. Reduce heat and stir in cheddar and parmesan until melted. Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

7. Add cooked pasta shells and stir to coat in the sauce. Simmer 2–3 minutes more.

8. Return steak bites to the skillet. Sprinkle with parsley and serve hot.

Notes

For best texture, use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged.

Let the steak come to room temperature before searing for even cooking.

Don’t overcrowd the pan—sear in batches for that crispy steak crust.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Cajun-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Calories: 720
Sugar: 3
Sodium: 950
Fat: 44
Saturated Fat: 20
Unsaturated Fat: 19
Trans Fat: 0.5
Carbohydrates: 45
Fiber: 2
Protein: 38
Cholesterol: 160

Keywords: cajun pasta, cheesy steak skillet, one pan dinner, quick dinner, spicy creamy pasta, easy steak recipe, comfort food ideas