If you’re craving a dinner that’s bursting with flavor and comforting richness, the Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells Recipe is going to be your new go-to! Imagine tender, juicy pieces of seared sirloin steak tossed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, paired perfectly with tender pasta shells smothered in a creamy, sharp cheddar Alfredo sauce that’s been lovingly loaded with Parmesan and a hint of smoked paprika. It’s a dish that feels both indulgent and homey, perfect for sharing with family or impressing guests without breaking a sweat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together elegantly yet simply, each adding a crucial element to the overall experience of the Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells Recipe. From savory seasonings to creamy cheeses, every component plays a role in delivering balance, texture, and that irresistible flavor punch.
- 1.5 lb Sirloin Steak: Opt for ribeye if you want even juicier, more flavorful bites.
- 2 tsp Kosher Salt: Essential for seasoning, adapt the amount to your taste and dietary preferences.
- 1 tsp Black Pepper: Adds a subtle heat—you can swap for white pepper for a milder touch.
- 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter: This creates that rich garlic butter sauce; olive oil works as a dairy-free alternative.
- 4 cloves Garlic: Fresh garlic is key to vibrant flavor, but garlic powder can fill in if you’re in a pinch.
- 12 oz Medium Pasta Shells: These capture sauce beautifully, feel free to use gluten-free pasta if needed.
- 1.5 cups Heavy Cream: Makes the Alfredo sauce luxuriously creamy; half-and-half can lighten the dish slightly.
- 2 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The star cheese that brings boldness; swap for milder varieties to soften the flavor.
- 0.5 cup Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty depth—nutritional yeast works great for vegan versions.
- 2 tbsp Chopped Fresh Parsley: Freshness and a pop of color; chives are a fine substitute.
- 0.5 tsp Smoked Paprika: Offers warmth and a subtle smoky dimension; can be omitted for a classic taste.
- 0.25 tsp Red Pepper Flakes: Just a touch of heat, adjustable to your spice-loving heart.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water and cook your medium pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set them aside, but don’t rinse—the starchy pasta surface helps the Alfredo sauce stick like a dream.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak Bites
Pat your sirloin steak dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Cut it into bite-sized cubes, then toss with kosher salt and black pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until hot, then add steak bites in a single layer. Sear for about 2-3 minutes per side until beautifully caramelized on the outside but still juicy inside. Remove steak bites to a plate and cover loosely to keep warm.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, toss in minced garlic cloves and sauté just until fragrant—about 30 seconds to a minute. This step is crucial since fresh garlic infuses the butter with so much flavor that will coat those steak bites perfectly when you return them to the pan.
Step 4: Whip Up the Cheddar Alfredo Sauce
In a separate saucepan, pour in heavy cream and bring it gently to a simmer over medium-low heat. Slowly stir in shredded sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and silky smooth. Add the smoked paprika and red pepper flakes to introduce a warm, slightly spicy undertone. Give it a taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Combine Pasta with Alfredo Sauce
Fold your cooked pasta shells into the cheddar Alfredo sauce, stirring gently to ensure every shell is luxuriously coated. Let the mixture simmer quietly for a minute or two so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens just enough to cling with luscious richness.
Step 6: Bring Steak Bites Back Into the Mix
Add the garlic butter steak bites back to the skillet, tossing them through the remaining garlic butter sauce to coat every morsel. Then, either layer the steak bites atop the cheesy shell pasta or gently fold them in—it’s your delicious call.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley sprinkled over the finished dish adds a gorgeous splash of green and a touch of herbal brightness that balances the rich and savory flavors. For a little extra zing, you might toss on a few more red pepper flakes or even grated Parmesan to heighten that cheesy appeal.
Side Dishes
This hearty dish shines on its own but pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides like a simple mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. The lightness and crunch contrast wonderfully against the creamy pasta and tender steak.
Creative Ways to Present
To wow your guests, try serving this dish in individual cast-iron skillets or rustic bowls that keep the steak bites and Alfredo shells warm. Garnish with a sprig of parsley or even a drizzle of truffle oil for an elegant touch. For a casual vibe, stack the steak bites atop the pasta like a mini tower and finish with a pinch of paprika.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. The Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells Recipe keeps well for up to 3 days—perfect for a next-day indulgence that tastes almost as great as freshly made.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers, although the texture of the pasta might soften slightly upon thawing. For best results, freeze the steak bites and pasta separately in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from breaking. Adding a splash of cream or milk can help revive the silky texture. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals to heat evenly without overcooking the steak bites.
FAQs
Can I use another cut of steak for the steak bites?
Absolutely! While sirloin is fantastic for its balance of flavor and tenderness, ribeye or strip steak work beautifully too. Just keep an eye on cooking times since different cuts have varying thickness and fat content.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the butter for olive or avocado oil, and use dairy-free cream alternatives along with vegan cheese substitutes for the Alfredo sauce. Nutritional yeast is a great way to keep that cheesy flavor without dairy.
Can I prepare the Alfredo sauce ahead of time?
You can! Prepare the sauce a few hours in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Warm gently on the stove before tossing with pasta, stirring well to restore its creamy texture.
What pasta can I use if I want a gluten-free option?
Any gluten-free pasta shells, or even little pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni, will work wonderfully. Just cook according to package instructions and rinse less to ensure the sauce sticks well.
How spicy is this recipe with the red pepper flakes?
The heat is quite mild and adds just a gentle kick to complement the smoky paprika and garlic butter. Feel free to skip or increase the flakes depending on your spice preference.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells Recipe has become one of those dishes I find myself eagerly making when I want something truly special yet easy enough for a weeknight. The harmony of tender steak, garlicky butter, and creamy, cheesy pasta is simply unbeatable. Give it a try—you’ll soon be sharing it as that beloved meal everyone asks for again and again!
Print
Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Savor the delicious combination of tender garlic butter steak bites paired with creamy, loaded cheddar alfredo shells. This easy-to-make dish features juicy sirloin steak seared with garlic and butter, complemented by rich pasta shells in a sharp cheddar and parmesan alfredo sauce, finished with a hint of smoked paprika and red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
Ingredients
Steak Bites
- 1.5 lb Sirloin Steak (Consider ribeye for an even juicier bite)
- 2 tsp Kosher Salt (Adjust for personal dietary needs)
- 1 tsp Black Pepper (Feel free to swap for white pepper if preferred)
- 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter (Olive oil can be used for a dairy-free option)
- 4 cloves Garlic (Use garlic powder as a substitute in a pinch)
Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells
- 12 oz Medium Pasta Shells (Any pasta shape will do, including gluten-free options)
- 1.5 cups Heavy Cream (Half-and-half is a lighter alternative)
- 2 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Use a milder cheese for a different taste)
- 0.5 cup Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese (Nutritional yeast is a great vegan substitute)
- 2 tbsp Chopped Fresh Parsley (Can substitute with chives)
- 0.5 tsp Smoked Paprika (Omit if a more traditional flavor is preferred)
- 0.25 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (Adjust based on your spice preference)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the medium pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Season the Steak: Pat the sirloin steak dry with paper towels. Cut the steak into bite-sized cubes. Season the steak bites evenly with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Sear the Steak Bites: Heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted and hot, add the steak bites in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust and reach desired doneness. Remove the steak bites from the skillet and set aside, leaving the steak juices in the pan.
- Sauté Garlic: Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Add minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant without burning.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add Cheeses and Seasonings: Stir in shredded sharp cheddar, grated parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Continue stirring until the cheeses melt and create a smooth, creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet and toss gently to coat the shells evenly with the loaded cheddar alfredo sauce.
- Finish with Steak Bites and Parsley: Return the seared steak bites to the skillet and gently stir to combine everything. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a fresh finish.
- Serve Warm: Plate the garlic butter steak bites with loaded cheddar alfredo shells immediately while hot and creamy. Enjoy this comforting, indulgent meal with family or friends.
Notes
- For a dairy-free variation, substitute unsalted butter with olive oil and use a dairy-free cream alternative.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your spice tolerance for a milder or spicier dish.
- Ribeye steak can be used for a richer flavor and juicier texture.
- Gluten-free pasta can be used to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the steak.
