There’s something incredibly satisfying about sinking your fork into juicy sirloin cubes that have been seared to a perfect caramelized crust, each piece glistening with rich garlic butter. Paired with tender pasta shells cloaked in a velvety parmesan cream, this dish brings together two comfort-food classics in one swoon-worthy plate. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping date-night meal or a cozy family dinner that feels indulgent yet approachable, these Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells deliver layers of flavor that will have everyone at the table reaching for seconds.
What I love most is how quickly it all comes together—under 30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll feel like a kitchen rock star as the aromas of garlic, thyme, and cream swirl around you, and that first bite of perfectly seasoned steak melds so beautifully with the cheesy, dreamy pasta. In my house, this recipe has become the go-to for busy weeknights when we crave something special but don’t want to spend ages cooking. So grab your skillet, turn up your favorite playlist, and let’s make dinner time the highlight of your day!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN GARLIC BUTTER STEAK BITES & CREAMY PARMESAN SHELLS
Before you dive into the cooking, let’s chat about the stars of this recipe and why each one is essential for creating those unforgettable flavors and textures.
- Sirloin steak
A lean, tender cut with just the right amount of marbling. When cubed and seared, it develops a delicious crust while staying juicy inside.
- Olive oil
Adds a light, fruity base for searing the steak. It helps achieve those beautiful brown bits without smoking out your kitchen.
- Salt and pepper
The ultimate seasoning duo. They elevate the natural flavors of the steak and balance the richness of the butter and cream.
- Unsalted butter
Provides a luxurious, creamy mouthfeel and carries the garlic flavor throughout both the steak and the sauce.
- Garlic
When minced and gently sautéed, garlic releases its sweet, mellow aroma—turning every bite into a flavor celebration.
- Fresh parsley
Brightens the heavy richness with a pop of herbal freshness and adds a touch of color.
- Small pasta shells
Perfect little pockets for trapping the creamy parmesan sauce, ensuring each forkful is saucy perfection.
- Heavy cream
Creates the silky base of the sauce, binding all the flavors together and delivering that decadent texture.
- Parmesan cheese
Freshly grated for maximum flavor, it melts smoothly into the cream for a nutty, tangy finish.
- Dijon mustard
A hint of tangy depth that cuts through the richness and adds a subtle bite to the sauce.
- Onion powder
Rounds out the sauce’s flavor with a gentle sweetness that complements the garlic.
- Dried thyme
A warm, earthy note that mingles beautifully with the cream and beef.
- Crushed red pepper flakes
Optional but highly recommended for a gentle kick that balances the dish’s creamy elements.
- Additional salt and pepper
Used at the end to taste, ensuring every component is perfectly seasoned before serving.
HOW TO MAKE GARLIC BUTTER STEAK BITES & CREAMY PARMESAN SHELLS
Get ready to transform simple ingredients into a sensational dinner that looks and tastes like you spent all day slaving away. Follow these steps carefully, and soon you’ll be enjoying tender steak bites dripping with garlic-infused butter alongside pillowy shells bathed in a dreamy parmesan sauce.
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While it warms up, season the steak cubes generously with salt and pepper, ensuring each piece is coated for maximum flavor.
2. Place the steak cubes in the hot skillet in a single layer—don’t overcrowd the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes per side, so a golden-brown crust forms. Once done to your liking, remove the steak and transfer to a plate.
3. Turn the heat down to medium, then add 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. When it’s melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Return the cooked steak pieces to the pan, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and toss to coat in that luscious garlic butter. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salty water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to package directions until al dente, then drain well.
5. For the sauce, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Pour in the heavy cream, bring to a simmer, and cook for about 2 minutes to slightly thicken.
6. Reduce to low heat and whisk in the Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, onion powder, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Continue whisking for 3–4 minutes, until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and coats the back of a spoon. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
7. Add the drained pasta shells to the sauce, gently stirring to combine. Cook together for another 2 minutes, ensuring each shell is enveloped in creamy goodness and everything is heated through.
8. Plate the steak bites alongside the creamy parmesan shells, and garnish with extra parsley if desired. Serve immediately for the ultimate melt-in-your-mouth experience.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR GARLIC BUTTER STEAK BITES & CREAMY PARMESAN SHELLS
Now that your steak bites and pasta are ready, let’s talk about presentation and pairing. These tips will take your meal from “delicious” to “insta-worthy” and keep everyone asking for the recipe.
- Family-Style Platter
Arrange the steak bites in the center of a large serving dish and surround them with the creamy shells. Garnish with extra chopped parsley and a light dusting of Parmesan for a communal, welcoming vibe.
- Fresh Green Salad
Balance the richness with a crisp arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens and bright citrus complement the buttery sauce beautifully.
- Toasted Garlic Bread
Slice a baguette, brush with garlic-infused olive oil, and toast until golden. These crunchy pieces are perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce on the plate.
- Steamed Veggie Side
Keep it simple with lightly steamed broccoli or asparagus, seasoned with a squeeze of lemon and a pinch of sea salt. It adds color, nutrition, and a fresh counterpoint to the creamy pasta.
HOW TO STORE GARLIC BUTTER STEAK BITES & CREAMY PARMESAN SHELLS
If you happen to have any leftovers (though they rarely stick around long!), storing them properly will help maintain flavor and texture for another day or two. Follow these tips to enjoy every bit of your hard work.
- Airtight Containers
Divide the steak bites and pasta into separate airtight containers. This prevents the pasta from soaking up too much steak juices overnight, keeping textures distinct.
- Refrigerator Storage
Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm the steak bites in a skillet with a tiny pat of butter to revive that seared crust, and microwave the pasta in 30-second bursts, stirring in a splash of cream or milk if it seems too thick.
- Freezing for Later
For longer storage, freeze in sealed freezer bags. Lay flat so they stack easily. They’ll keep for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating as above.
- Reheat with Care
To preserve the sauce’s creaminess, reheat on low heat. Avoid boiling, which can cause the sauce to separate. Stir frequently and add a dash of cream or broth if needed.
CONCLUSION
Bringing together tender sirloin bites bathed in garlicky butter and luscious parmesan-coated shells, this recipe truly embodies comfort food at its finest. In just under 30 minutes, you transform simple ingredients like steak, garlic, cream, and cheese into a memorable dinner that feels both indulgent and approachable. These Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells hit all the right notes: a golden-brown crust on the steak, a fragrant punch of garlic and herbs, and a silky parmesan sauce that clings perfectly to each shell. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner, a cozy date night, or hosting friends, this dish delivers on flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Plus, the preparation is straightforward enough to keep you engaged in the kitchen without feeling overwhelmed.
Feel free to print this article and tuck it into your recipe collection for whenever you need a reliable, crowd-pleasing meal. Don’t forget—you’ll find a handy FAQ below to troubleshoot any questions you might have about ingredient swaps, cooking times, or storage tips. And if you give this recipe a whirl, I’d love to hear how it turned out: leave a comment with your tips, questions, or feedback, and let’s continue the conversation. Happy cooking!
Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells
Description
Juicy sirloin bites seared to perfection, tossed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce, paired with pillowy pasta shells enveloped in a silky parmesan cream—ultimate comfort in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak cubes with salt and pepper.
-
Add the steak cubes to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until the steak is browned and cooked to your liking. Remove the steak from the skillet and transfer to a plate.
-
Reduce the heat to medium, add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet until melted. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the cooked steak back into the skillet and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Stir well to coat the steak in garlic butter. Remove from heat and set aside.
-
Meanwhile, in a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to package instructions; drain well.
-
To make the creamy parmesan sauce, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add in the heavy cream, bring to a simmer, and cook for about 2 minutes.
-
Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, onion powder, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Continue to stir until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes. Season the sauce with additional salt and pepper to taste.
-
Add the cooked pasta shells to the sauce, stirring to combine. Cook until everything is well integrated and heated through, about 2 minutes.
-
Serve the steak bites and creamy parmesan shells together immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Note
- This dish is perfect when seasoned and garnished with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Ensure not to overcook the steak to maintain juiciness; medium-rare is ideal for tenderness.
- For added flavor, marinate the steak cubes for a few hours in olive oil, garlic, and your choice of herbs.
- The creamy Parmesan shells can be prepared in advance and reheated, allowing flavors to deepen.
