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Irresistible Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells Recipe

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  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This recipe features irresistible garlic butter sirloin steak bites paired with loaded cheddar Alfredo shells, creating a rich and flavorful meal perfect for a hearty dinner. The tender steak bites are seasoned and sautéed in garlic butter, while the creamy Alfredo pasta shells are loaded with sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese for a decadent touch. Garnished with fresh parsley and a hint of smoked paprika and red pepper flakes, this dish balances savory, creamy, and mildly spicy flavors beautifully.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Garlic Butter Steak Bites

  • 1 pound Sirloin Steak (Choose well-marbled sirloin or ribeye for the best flavor and tenderness.)
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Enhances the flavor of the steak; remember, some salt will be in the pasta water.)
  • 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adds seasoning and a touch of heat to elevate the dish.)
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Imparts richness; substitute with olive oil if you prefer a lighter flavor.)
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) (Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness when sautéed in butter.)

For the Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells

  • 8 ounces Medium Pasta Shells (The ideal shape for holding the creamy Alfredo sauce; cook al dente for the best texture.)
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream (Forms the creamy base for the Alfredo sauce; can be swapped with half-and-half for a lighter touch.)
  • 1 cup Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Provides a rich, cheesy flavor; feel free to substitute with your favorite cheese for a twist.)
  • 0.5 cup Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese (Adds depth and complexity to the sauce; Pecorino Romano is a great alternative!)
  • 0.25 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped) (Adds freshness and color as a lovely garnish.)
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Introduces a subtle smokiness if you’re looking for a twist in flavor.)
  • 0.5 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Enhances the spice level; adjust according to your personal preference.)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Steak Bites: Cut the sirloin steak into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking. Season with kosher salt and black pepper evenly on all sides.
  2. Sauté Garlic and Steak: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the unsalted butter. Once melted and hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Immediately add the steak bites to the skillet.
  3. Cook Steak Bites: Sear the steak bites in the butter and garlic, cooking each side for about 2-3 minutes until a medium-rare to medium doneness is reached, depending on your preference. Remove the steak bites from the skillet and set aside to rest.
  4. Cook the Pasta Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta shells. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  5. Prepare Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet used for steak, reduce heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the steak and garlic for added flavor. Bring the cream to a gentle simmer.
  6. Add Cheeses: Slowly whisk in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese melts completely and the sauce thickens slightly. Season with smoked paprika and red pepper flakes to taste.
  7. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to coat all the shells thoroughly in the creamy cheese sauce.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Return the rested steak bites to the skillet with the pasta and sauce, stirring gently to combine. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the dish for color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • Ensure the steak is well rested after cooking for juicier bites.
  • Use freshly grated cheeses for the best texture and flavor in the Alfredo sauce.
  • Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
  • Substitute butter with olive oil for a lighter variation.
  • For extra creaminess, add a bit more heavy cream or a splash of pasta water to the sauce if it thickens too much.
  • If preferred, ribeye can substitute sirloin for a more tender and flavorful steak.

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Find it online: https://homecookinggenius.com/irresistible-garlic-butter-steak-bites-and-loaded-cheddar-alfredo-shells-recipe/