Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells 🍝

Get ready to cozy up with this delightful dish! Perfect for a special night in or a festive gathering, these Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells are a match made in foodie heaven. Let’s dive into the deliciousness! 😋

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Ingredients 🛒

For the Steak Bites:

• 1 lb steak (sirloin, ribeye, or filet), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

For the Creamy Parmesan Shells:

• 8 oz small pasta shells
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional, for extra flavor)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for extra creaminess)
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions 🥄

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Steak Bites

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
2. Season the steak bites with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Once the oil is hot, add the steak bites in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
4. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the butter, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and red pepper flakes.
6. Stir everything together, allowing the garlic and butter to coat the steak bites.
7. Cook for another minute until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.
8. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Let the sauce simmer and thicken for about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg.
6. Once the cheese is fully melted, add the shredded mozzarella and mix until smooth and creamy.
7. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
8. Add the cooked pasta shells to the sauce and toss to coat.

Step 4: Assemble & Serve

1. Plate the creamy Parmesan shells in a serving dish.
2. Top with the garlic butter steak bites.
3. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy! 🍽️

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Tips & Variations 🔥

• Steak Selection: Use a well-marbled steak like ribeye for the juiciest results.
• Extra Flavor: Add a splash of white wine to the steak bites for an extra depth of flavor.
• Make it Spicier: Increase red pepper flakes or add a touch of hot sauce.
• Vegetable Boost: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes into the creamy shells.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve the steak bites over mashed cauliflower instead of pasta.

This dish is indulgent, creamy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner at home or serving it at a gathering, these Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells will impress every time. Enjoy! 🍷✨