Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Garlic butter steak bites paired with creamy Parmesan pasta shells make the kind of dinner that feels special with every forkful. Juicy cubes of steak sizzle in aromatic garlic butter and then get spooned over velvety Alfredo-coated pasta. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this restaurant-worthy meal is one I reach for whenever I want to delight a crowd or just treat my family to something indulgent on a weeknight.

I discovered this recipe when trying to impress my in-laws during their first visit to our home. The combination of juicy steak and creamy pasta won everyone over and now it is our celebratory meal any time we want to make dinner feel extra special.

Ingredients

• Beef steak cut into small cubes: This ensures quick cooking and a satisfying golden brown exterior Aim for good marbling when choosing steak for unbeatable tenderness
• Butter: Provides the base for rich flavor Look for European style or high fat butter for an extra creamy result
• Garlic minced: Fresh garlic brings out an unmatched aromatic depth Choose plump firm cloves for the best flavor
• Salt and pepper: Key to bringing out the steak’s full flavor Use flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper if you can
• Pasta shells: Their shape perfectly cradles the creamy Alfredo sauce Pick bronze-cut pasta for a rough surface that holds more sauce
• Heavy cream: Creates the rich silky base of the Alfredo sauce Select a brand with high milk fat for a truly luscious sauce
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savory complexity and thickens the sauce Grate fresh cheese from a wedge for superior flavor
• Fresh parsley chopped: Brightens the whole dish with color and a burst of freshness Go for flat leaf parsley for the finest texture

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Steak:

Generously coat steak cubes with salt and pepper ensuring each piece is well seasoned on all sides Let the meat sit at room temperature for 10 minutes while you prepare other ingredients for even cooking

Create the Garlic Butter Base:

In a large cast iron skillet over medium high heat melt the butter completely and wait until it just starts to foam Add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned

Cook the Steak Bites:

Layer the seasoned steak cubes into the hot skillet making sure not to crowd the pan Let them cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes so a deep crust forms Flip each piece and cook another 1 to 2 minutes for medium rare or adjust as you like

Prepare the Pasta:

While the steak cooks bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil Add your pasta shells and cook until al dente following package directions Reserve some pasta water before draining

Create the Alfredo Sauce:

In a separate saucepan over medium heat bring the heavy cream to a gentle simmer Slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until completely melted If the sauce seems too thick add a splash of your reserved pasta water until it looks silky and coats a spoon

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Toss drained pasta shells directly into the Alfredo sauce Stir gently to coat every shell allowing the pasta to simmer in the sauce for a minute so the flavors meld

Serve and Garnish:

Spoon creamy pasta onto plates and top with hot garlic butter steak bites making sure to drizzle any extra flavorful butter from the pan over the top Sprinkle on fresh chopped parsley and more Parmesan if desired Serve immediately for the best texture

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The richness of butter and garlic elevates simple beef into something memorable I learned this working in a bustling steakhouse where a chef taught me the value of high heat and simple seasonings My kids now ask for this every single birthday because those steak bites always steal the show

Best Steak Cuts to Use

For unbeatable tenderness and flavor ribeye is my top pick Its marbling melts into the sauce making every bite delectable Sirloin works well too and offers big flavor at a more modest price When I need a budget friendly version I reach for flank steak sliced across the grain and cooked quickly to avoid toughness

Make Ahead Options

Prep ahead can make this meal as quick as possible Chop and season the steak up to a day ahead and store it covered in the fridge You can also make the Alfredo sauce up to two days in advance Just warm it gently with a splash more cream or milk to loosen it right before serving Boil pasta a minute less than the box suggests and finish it later in the sauce for a fresh taste

Flavor Variations

This recipe is a fantastic base for flavor exploration Add sautéed mushrooms along with the garlic for an earthy boost Stir in sun dried tomatoes and a handful of spinach to the sauce for Mediterranean flair If you like a little heat sprinkle in red pepper flakes with your garlic or stir chopped roasted red peppers into the finished Alfredo

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Recipe FAQs

→ How do I cook steak bites perfectly?

Season steak cubes generously with salt and pepper, then sauté in hot melted butter until browned on all sides. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking and a nice crust.

→ What type of pasta pairs best with this dish?

Pasta shells work especially well as their shape catches the creamy Alfredo sauce, but fettuccine or penne can also be delicious alternatives.

→ Can I substitute fresh Parmesan with pre-grated cheese?

Freshly grated Parmesan is preferred for smooth melting and better texture, though pre-grated cheese can be used if needed, keeping in mind it may affect sauce consistency.

→ How can I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat low when adding cheese to the warm cream, stirring constantly to maintain a smooth, velvety sauce without separation.

→ What alternatives exist for heavy cream in the sauce?

Half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream cheese can be used for a lighter sauce while preserving a creamy texture.

→ What steak cuts are best for this dish?

Ribeye offers rich marbling and tenderness, sirloin is a flavorful budget-friendly option, and flank steak works well if sliced thinly against the grain.