Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Parmesan Alfredo Shells

A cozy, indulgent dinner featuring tender, garlicky steak bites paired with creamy Parmesan Alfredo pasta shells.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick weeknight meal — ready in under 30 minutes
• Steak bites get crispy edges + buttery garlicky flavor
• Alfredo shells are ultra-creamy with rich Parmesan
• Family-friendly comfort food
• Easy ingredients, big flavor

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Steak Bites

• 1 lb (450 g) sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-size cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For the Parmesan Alfredo Shells

• 8 oz (225 g) medium pasta shells
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups milk
• ½ cup heavy cream (or more milk)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Boil pasta shells in salted water according to package directions.
2. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Alfredo Sauce

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in flour and whisk for 30 seconds until smooth.
3. Slowly pour in milk and cream, whisking constantly.
4. Add Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer 3–5 minutes until thick and creamy.
6. Add cooked shells and stir to coat.

3. Cook the Steak Bites

1. Pat steak dry and season with paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add steak bites in a single layer — do not overcrowd.
4. Sear 2–3 minutes per side until browned.
5. Add butter and minced garlic; stir to coat the steak as the butter melts.
6. Cook 1 more minute, then remove from heat.
7. Sprinkle with parsley if desired.

4. Serve

• Plate creamy Alfredo shells.
• Spoon garlic butter steak bites on top.
• Drizzle extra garlic butter from the pan over everything.

Recipe Tips

• Patting steak dry helps it sear instead of steam.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best creamy sauce.
• If your sauce gets too thick, add a splash of milk.
• Ribeye gives the richest flavor, but sirloin is a great budget choice.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Chicken breast or shrimp can replace steak.
• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Gluten-free flour + GF pasta works perfectly if needed.
• Add spinach or peas for a veggie boost.

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in the fridge for 2–3 days.
• Reheat gently with a splash of milk to loosen the Alfredo.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes! Any short pasta works — bowties, penne, or rotini.

→ How do I keep steak tender?
Don’t overcook it; high heat and quick searing give best results.

→ Can I make the sauce lighter?
Use all milk instead of cream and reduce the butter slightly.

→ Can I meal prep this?
Yes — store pasta and steak separately for best texture.

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