Description
A decadent and flavorful recipe featuring tender garlic butter steak bites paired with creamy, spicy chipotle-infused pasta shells. This dish combines the richness of seared sirloin or ribeye steak with a luscious white cheddar and chipotle cream sauce, making it perfect for a satisfying dinner in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Steak Bites
- 1 pound Sirloin or Ribeye Steak, cut into cubes (Flank steak can be used for a leaner version)
- 3 tablespoons Butter
- 4 cloves Garlic, freshly minced
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground
Creamy Chipotle Shells
- 2 cans Chipotle Peppers in Adobo
- 1 cup White Cheddar Cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 8 ounces Pasta Shells (Gluten-free shells can be used)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Steak Preparation: Pat the sirloin or ribeye steak cubes dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture, then season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let the steaks rest for about 10 minutes to allow the seasoning to penetrate.
- Searing the Steak Bites: Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes until very hot. Place the steak cubes in a single layer and sear them for 1-2 minutes on each side until they develop a caramelized, browned crust. Remove steak bites from the skillet and set aside temporarily.
- Making Garlic Butter: Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss to coat thoroughly in the garlic butter mixture.
- Cooking the Pasta Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta shells and cook them according to package instructions for approximately 7-10 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Preparing the Creamy Chipotle Sauce: In a separate saucepan over medium heat, pour in the heavy cream and add finely chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Stir continuously for about 3 minutes to blend the flavors. Whisk in shredded white cheddar cheese until completely melted, smooth, and creamy.
- Combining Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta shells into the cheese and chipotle sauce. Toss gently to ensure every shell is evenly coated. Allow this mixture to warm together on low heat for one more minute to meld the flavors.
- Plating and Garnishing: Divide the creamy chipotle pasta shells onto serving plates, then generously top each plate with the garlic butter steak bites. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness before serving.
Notes
- Use flank steak for a leaner, more budget-friendly alternative to sirloin or ribeye.
- Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers based on your spice tolerance.
- Gluten-free pasta shells can be substituted to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Ensure the skillet is sufficiently hot before searing to get a good caramelized crust on the steak bites.
- Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor; avoid garlic powder substitution here.
- For a richer sauce, you can add a little extra heavy cream or cheese as desired.
