Name: Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb steak (sirloin, ribeye, or NY strip), cut into bite-sized cubes; 8 oz shell pasta (medium or large); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Optional: chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

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Steak bites and shell pasta in garlic butter Alfredo sauce is one of my favorite indulgent meals. It brings together tender, juicy seared steak with buttery garlic and a creamy Alfredo pasta that clings perfectly to every shell. This dish feels like restaurant comfort food—but I love that I can whip it up at home with just a few simple steps.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe feels both fancy and fuss-free. The steak bites cook quickly and stay perfectly tender, while the garlic butter Alfredo sauce is rich and full of flavor. The shell pasta catches every bit of sauce, making each bite satisfying and luxurious. Whether I’m cooking for guests or just treating myself, it never fails to impress. Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Steak (sirloin, ribeye, or NY strip), cut into bite-sized cubes
Shell pasta (medium or large)
Salt
Black pepper
Garlic powder
Olive oil
Butter
Garlic, minced
Heavy cream
Grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I start by cooking the shell pasta in salted boiling water according to the package directions, then drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, I season the steak bites with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
I heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak bites for 1–2 minutes per side until browned and cooked to my liking. I remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
In the same skillet, I lower the heat and melt the butter, then sauté the minced garlic until fragrant—about 30 seconds.
I pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, then stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens.
I add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat well, then return the steak bites to the skillet.
I stir everything together for a minute, then remove from heat and garnish with parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes around 10–15 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so I usually have it ready in about 30–35 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra flavor and texture. If I want a spicy version, I sprinkle in red pepper flakes. For a richer sauce, I finish with a bit more butter or a splash of pasta water to adjust the texture.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I use a skillet with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and gently warm it. The microwave works too, but I stir halfway through to keep it creamy. Steak Bites and Shell Pasta in Garlic Butter Alfredo Sauce

FAQs

What cut of steak works best?

I like sirloin for its balance of flavor and tenderness, but ribeye or strip steak also work great. I make sure to cut against the grain for the most tender bites.

Can I make the Alfredo sauce lighter?

Yes, I’ve used half-and-half or even a mix of milk and cream for a lighter version. The sauce will be thinner but still flavorful.

Is it okay to use pre-shredded Parmesan?

It works, but I prefer freshly grated Parmesan—it melts smoother and adds a more intense flavor to the sauce.

Can I cook the pasta and steak in advance?

Definitely. I cook the pasta and steak bites ahead of time, then reheat them gently with the sauce when I’m ready to serve.

What can I serve with this dish?

I like serving it with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. Garlic bread also pairs perfectly to soak up the extra sauce.

Conclusion

Steak bites and shell pasta in garlic butter Alfredo sauce is the kind of dinner that feels special without being complicated. It’s rich, savory, and full of comfort in every bite. Whether I’m making it for a cozy night in or a dinner with friends, this dish always delivers bold flavor and satisfying indulgence.