Description

Craving something rich and deeply satisfying? These Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells combine the best of both worlds: juicy, seared steak bites glazed in garlic butter, paired with ultra-creamy cheddar Alfredo pasta shells. Perfect for an easy dinner, a comforting weeknight meal, or food ideas that feel like a restaurant indulgence without the extra work. This quick recipe is ideal when you want something bold, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re gathering for a cozy night in or need dinner ideas in a pinch, this one’s a guaranteed hit.

Ingredients

1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

4 cloves garlic, minced

3 tbsp butter

8 oz shell pasta

1 cup heavy cream

1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded

½ cup grated parmesan cheese

2 tbsp cream cheese (optional)

½ tsp paprika (optional, for garnish)

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Pat steak cubes dry and season with salt and pepper. Let rest at room temperature.

2. Boil pasta shells in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.

3. In a saucepan, heat heavy cream over medium-low heat. Stir in cream cheese until melted.

4. Add cheddar and parmesan cheese, stirring gently until smooth. Keep heat low to avoid curdling.

5. In a hot skillet, sear steak cubes in batches with a splash of oil, 1–2 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

6. Reduce heat, melt butter in the same skillet, and sauté garlic until fragrant (30 seconds).

7. Return steak to pan and toss in garlic butter until fully coated. Garnish with paprika if desired.

8. Stir pasta into cheese sauce until fully coated. Plate next to steak bites and garnish with parsley.

9. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

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

Always freshly shred cheese for smoother sauce and better meltability.

Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 720
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 46g
Saturated Fat: 24g
Unsaturated Fat: 18g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 38g
Cholesterol: 155mg

Keywords: easy dinner, garlic butter steak, cheddar Alfredo, comfort food, pasta dinner, food ideas