There’s something undeniably comforting about a dish that marries the tender juiciness of steak with the creamy goodness of Alfredo sauce. The moment I took my first bite of steak bites paired with shell pasta bathed in garlic butter Alfredo sauce, it felt as if I had unearth a culinary treasure. Each bite delivers an orchestra of flavors—savoury steak melded with rich creaminess, all tied together with the gentle crunch of perfectly cooked shell pasta. It’s like a warm hug on a plate and an invitation to indulge.

## Recipe Timing

Prep Duration: 10 minutes
Active Cooking: 20 minutes
Total Duration: 30 minutes
Portion Size: Serves 4
Complexity: Simple

## Nutritional Recipe

Calories per portion: Approximately 600
Protein: 38 grams per serving
Carbs: 46 grams per serving
Fats: 36 grams per serving
Fiber: 2 grams per serving
Sugars: 2 grams per serving
Sodium: 850 mg per serving

## Why You’ll Love This Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce

Imagine the week winding down—a chaotic Monday replaced by a mellow Friday. You’re in the mood for something that feels like a restaurant-quality meal but won’t take you all evening to prepare. This dish is your answer! With simple ingredients that you might already have on hand, you can whip up a dreamy plate of pasta that’s sure to impress your family or friends. Plus, the magic of this recipe is in its simplicity. Just a few straightforward steps lead to a delicious feast, making it perfect for both the seasoned chef and the novice alike!

## The Complete Cooking Journey

As you embark on this cooking adventure, you will find yourself drawn into a world of tantalizing aromas and mouth-watering visuals. From searing steak bites until they’re golden brown to stirring in the creamy Alfredo sauce—each step feels like a little culinary celebration! So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking!

## Ingredients:

1 pound sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
8 ounces shell pasta
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Chopped parsley, for garnish

## Method:

### Step 1: Cook the Shell Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the shell pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. When done, drain it but don’t forget to reserve about ¼ cup of that starchy pasta water—this will come in handy later! Set both the pasta and water aside.

### Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Generously season your steak bites with salt and black pepper. Add them to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are beautifully browned and cooked to your liking. Once done, transfer the steak to a plate.

### Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

Lower the heat to medium, and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil along with the butter to the skillet. Allow the butter to melt and bubble, filling your kitchen with delightfully savory aromas.

### Step 4: Sauté Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute, stirring constantly. You want it fragrant, not browned—let that sweet aroma guide you!

### Step 5: Whisk in the Heavy Cream

Pour the heavy cream into the skillet gradually, whisking continuously. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens up slightly—this will create a velvety sauce that you’ll love.

### Step 6: Incorporate Parmesan

Add the grated Parmesan cheese into the mixture and whisk until it’s completely melted and the sauce achieves a smooth consistency. If it seems a bit too thick, don’t worry! Just stir in a splash of reserved pasta water until you reach your desired thickness.

### Step 7: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Now, it’s time for the shell pasta! Gently toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring every piece is perfectly coated with that luxurious garlic butter Alfredo sauce.

### Step 8: Fold in Steak Bites

Add the seared steak bites back into the skillet, heating everything through for another minute. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed.

### Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Grab a handful of chopped parsley and sprinkle it over the dish for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately, and watch as your loved ones’ faces light up with joy at the dinner table!

## Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This hearty dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. Consider a nice glass of red wine to complement the flavors of the steak, and perhaps a light dessert, like a fruit sorbet, to cleanse the palate afterward.

## Storage & Leftovers Guide

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rarely the case!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to help restore that creamy texture!

## Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips

For a well-seasoned steak, let it come to room temperature before cooking.
Stir the sauce continuously to avoid any lumps when adding the cheese.
Experiment with different cheeses like Pecorino Romano for a different flavor profile or even add a splash of white wine for acidity.

## Flavor Variations & Adaptations

Feeling adventurous? You can throw in some sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli for even more flavor and texture. If you prefer a little spice, consider adding red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic to give the dish a kick!

## Reader Questions & Solutions

How do I know when my steak is cooked perfectly?
The best way to ensure your steak is cooked to your liking is by using an instant-read thermometer. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape you love will work wonderfully. Try fettuccine or penne for a different bite.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute it with half-and-half or a mixture of milk with butter! Just remember that the sauce will be less creamy.
How can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Parmesan cheese is certified gluten-free!
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and steak ahead of time, just reheat gently and toss in the pasta before serving.

## Wrapping Up

Indulging in a plate of Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket after a long day. The rich flavors, the delightful textures, and the pure joy of sharing this meal with loved ones will truly make it a recurring favorite at your dinner table. I hope this recipe brings you as much joy as it has brought me. So, gather your ingredients, channel your inner chef, and dive into this delicious adventure! Bon appétit!