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Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce

This recipe combines tender, garlicky steak bites with perfectly cooked shell pasta smothered in a rich, creamy garlic butter Alfredo sauce. Ideal for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough for entertaining, it delivers comfort food with a touch of gourmet flair.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 485
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Steak Bites
  • 1 pound sirloin or ribeye steak cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
For the Pasta Alfredo
  • 12 ounces medium pasta shells
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Another pan

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 ounces of medium pasta shells and cook until al dente (about 10 minutes). Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the starchy pasta water.
  2. Pat the 1 pound of steak cubes dry with paper towels. Season them generously with ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon paprika.
  3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter until the butter is foaming. Add the steak cubes in a single layer and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until a beautiful crust forms.
  4. In the last minute of cooking, add 3 minced garlic cloves to the skillet and let them become fragrant without burning.
  5. To make the Alfredo sauce, melt 3 tablespoons butter in another pan over medium heat. Add 3 cloves minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Pour in 2 cups of heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning and salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Toss the cooked pasta shells in the Alfredo sauce, then fold in the seared steak bites along with any accumulated juices. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
  8. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

This dish is a perfect blend of comfort and elegance. You can swap the steak for chicken, shrimp, or even go vegetarian with mushrooms or spinach. The recipe comes together quickly, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner that feels indulgent. For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or coconut milk, and serve with a crisp garden salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness.