If you’re looking for a rich and satisfying dinner that feels restaurant-worthy but is still easy to make at home, this Creamy Garlic Butter Steak & Shell Pasta Alfredo delivers every time. Tender steak bites, buttery garlic flavor, and a silky Parmesan cream sauce come together in one comforting dish. Even better, the pasta shells catch every bit of sauce, making each bite incredibly indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for family or treating yourself after a long day, this recipe turns an ordinary night into something special.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the pasta
First, bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook until al dente. Once cooked, drain and reserve a little pasta water, which will help loosen the sauce later if needed.
2. Sear the steak bites
Meanwhile, pat the steak pieces dry and season generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak in a single layer and sear until nicely browned on all sides. During the final minute, add garlic and cook just until fragrant. Remove the steak and set aside.
3. Build the garlic butter sauce
Next, lower the heat and melt the remaining butter in the same skillet. Add more garlic and stir briefly until aromatic. Then pour in the heavy cream, season lightly, and let the sauce simmer gently until it begins to thicken.
4. Add the cheese
Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese, whisking constantly until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. At this point, the sauce should be rich but still pourable.
5. Combine everything
Now, add the cooked pasta shells to the sauce and toss until well coated. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. Finally, fold the steak bites back into the pan and let everything warm through for a minute or two.
6. Serve
Finish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Helpful Tips
- Dry the steak well: Removing excess moisture helps create a better sear and deeper flavor.
- Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly and can make the sauce grainy.
- Don’t overcook the steak: Since it’s added back to the sauce, slightly undercooking it at first keeps it tender.
- Adjust the sauce easily: A little reserved pasta water can quickly fix a sauce that feels too thick.
- Serve right away: Alfredo sauce is best enjoyed fresh while it’s silky and warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, ribeye, sirloin, or strip steak all work well. Just choose a tender cut and slice it evenly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored and reheated gently with a splash of cream or milk.
What if my Alfredo sauce breaks?
Lower the heat and stir in a small amount of warm cream or pasta water to bring it back together.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely. Spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli pair beautifully with the garlic butter sauce.
Is there a lighter option?
You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.
