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If you’re craving a dinner that’s bursting with flavor and feels like a warm hug on your plate, then you absolutely need to try this Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells Recipe. This dish pairs tender, garlicky steak bites with creamy, cheesy shells, creating a perfect balance of savory, buttery, and comforting textures. Whether it’s a weeknight family meal or a special occasion dinner, this combination is guaranteed to impress and satisfy every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in building layers of taste and texture in the Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells Recipe. From the rich butter and robust garlic to the gooey cheddar cheese and perfectly seasoned steak, every component adds a little magic to the final dish.
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized pieces: Choose a tender cut for juicy, flavorful bites that sear beautifully.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic infuses the butter with aromatic depth that elevates the steak to the next level.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided: Butter provides luscious richness to both the steak and the Alfredo shells.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps achieve a perfect sear on the steak without sticking.
- ½ tsp salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors without overpowering.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Adds just the right mild heat and complexity.
- ½ tsp smoked paprika: Introduces a subtle smokiness that harmonizes beautifully with the steak.
- 8 oz medium pasta shells: Shell-shaped pasta is perfect for holding onto all that creamy cheddar Alfredo sauce.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar delivers that wonderfully melty, tangy kick to the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a silky base that makes the Alfredo sauce luxuriously smooth.
- 4 oz cream cheese: Adds extra creaminess and a slight tang to the sauce’s texture.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Intensifies the garlic flavor throughout the Alfredo sauce.
- ½ tsp onion powder: Brings a subtle sweetness that rounds out the sauce.
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): A fresh pop of color and brightness to finish the dish.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Steak
Start by trimming any excess fat from your sirloin or ribeye steak, then cut the meat into bite-size cubes. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure a beautiful sear. Season generously with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to give the steak a flavorful crust as it cooks.
Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Once the butter melts and the pan is hot, add the steak cubes in a single layer. Sear each piece for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until a golden brown crust forms. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan—work in batches if needed to keep that perfect sear.
Step 3: Create the Garlic Butter Sauce
Lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining butter and the minced garlic cloves to the skillet. Cook just for 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant but not burnt. Toss the seared steak bites back into the pan, coating them thoroughly with the garlic butter. Turn off the heat and cover the pan to keep everything warm and juicy.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta Shells
While the steak is resting, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the medium pasta shells until they are al dente—firm to the bite but fully cooked. Drain the pasta carefully and set it aside, ready to be enveloped in that luscious cheddar Alfredo sauce.
Step 5: Make the Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream with cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese has fully melted and the mixture turns smooth and velvety. Then add the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese melts entirely and the sauce is thick, cheesy, and decadent.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Gently fold the cooked pasta shells into the warm cheddar Alfredo sauce, making sure every shell is generously coated. The combination of shells cradling the creamy sauce is what makes this dish irresistibly comforting.
Step 7: Plate and Top with Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Serve the creamy cheddar Alfredo shells on plates or in bowls and crown them with the sizzling garlic butter steak bites. For a fresh, vibrant final touch, sprinkle chopped parsley over everything. Serve immediately for the best warm, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a beautiful splash of green and a hint of fresh earthiness that brightens the rich flavors of the steak and cheese. For an extra touch, you can also grate some Parmesan on top or add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle heat kick.
Side Dishes
Since this dish is hearty and full of flavor, pairing it with lighter sides balances the meal perfectly. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables offer freshness and crunch. Garlic bread or crusty rolls can also be fantastic for soaking up any leftover Alfredo sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleaser or a special dinner, serve the shells and steak bites family-style in a large beautiful wooden bowl or cast iron skillet. Layer the shells first, then spoon the steak bites on top, and garnish lavishly with parsley. This presentation invites sharing and makes the meal feel festive and warm.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells Recipe tastes fantastic reheated, so store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the pasta and steak together to maintain those rich flavors.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this dish, it’s best to store the steak bites and the shells separately to preserve texture. Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating
Reheat gently on low heat so the sauce remains creamy and the steak stays tender. Add a splash of milk or cream when warming the shells to bring back the sauce’s rich consistency. Avoid high heat or the steak may become tough.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin or ribeye are ideal for their tenderness and flavor, you can use flank or skirt steak—just cut them thinly and be mindful of cooking time as they cook faster and are leaner.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the medium pasta shells for your favorite gluten-free pasta variety. The creamy cheddar Alfredo sauce and steak bites remain just as delicious.
Can I prepare the steak bites ahead of time?
You can sear the steak bites in advance and store them in the fridge for up to one day. Reheat gently in the garlic butter sauce before serving to keep them moist and flavorful.
What can I substitute for cream cheese in the Alfredo sauce?
If you don’t have cream cheese, mascarpone or even a bit of ricotta can work as substitutes—both will keep the sauce creamy, though the texture may be slightly different.
How spicy is this dish?
This Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells Recipe is mild with a warm smokiness from the paprika rather than heat, making it approachable for all palates. You can always add crushed red pepper flakes to your taste for extra spice.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a meal that feels indulgent and comforting without requiring complicated ingredients or techniques. This Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells Recipe is just that — a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dish bursting with flavor and creamy goodness. I can’t wait for you to try it and watch it become one of your go-to dinners whenever you want to treat yourself or your loved ones to something unforgettable.
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Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells recipe features tender, juicy steak cubes seared to perfection and coated in fragrant garlic butter, served atop creamy cheddar Alfredo pasta shells. The rich, cheesy sauce blends heavy cream, cream cheese, and sharp cheddar with subtle garlic and onion spices, creating a comforting, hearty meal perfect for a satisfying dinner in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Steak Bites
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
Cheddar Alfredo Shells
- 8 oz medium pasta shells
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Steak: Trim any excess fat from the sirloin or ribeye steak and cut it into bite-sized cubes. Pat the steak cubes dry to ensure a good sear, then season them evenly with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Sear the Steak Bites: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Once hot, add the seasoned steak cubes in a single layer and sear for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until browned. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Add Garlic Butter: Lower the heat to medium, then add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant. Return the seared steak bites to the skillet, tossing them to coat thoroughly in the garlic butter. Turn off the heat and cover to keep warm.
- Cook the Pasta Shells: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta shells until al dente according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside.
- Make the Cheddar Alfredo Sauce: In a separate saucepan, combine the heavy cream and cream cheese. Stir over medium heat until the cream cheese melts smoothly into the cream. Add shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Stir constantly until the cheese sauce is thick, creamy, and smooth.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta shells to the cheddar Alfredo sauce and gently stir to coat all the pasta evenly with the creamy cheese mixture.
- Serve: Plate the cheesy Alfredo pasta shells and top with the garlic butter steak bites. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For best results, choose a marbled steak like ribeye for juicier, more flavorful bites.
- Work in batches when searing steak to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause steaming instead of searing.
- Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for a smoother melt and better texture in the sauce.
- Adjust seasoning in the cheese sauce to your taste; a pinch of nutmeg can add an extra layer of flavor if desired.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat gently to avoid drying out the steak.
