Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Tender juicy steak bites seared in garlic butter paired with creamy cheesy pasta shells—a quick and satisfying meal perfect for weeknights.

When I first made these garlic butter steak bites with cheesy shells my family instantly declared it a new favorite—the flavors meld so perfectly and the kids love the cheesy pasta.

Ingredients

• Sirloin steak: 1 lb (450 g), cut into 1-inch cubes
• Olive oil: 1 tbsp
• Kosher salt: 1 tsp
• Black pepper: ½ tsp
• Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
• Unsalted butter: 3 tbsp for steak, 2 tbsp for sauce
• Garlic cloves: 4, minced
• Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped
• Pasta shells: 8 oz (225 g), medium size
• Whole milk: 2 cups (480 ml)
• All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: 1½ cups (150 g)
• Grated Parmesan cheese: ½ cup (50 g)
• Salt: ½ tsp
• Black pepper: ¼ tsp
• Ground nutmeg (optional): Pinch

Instructions

Cook Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Season Steak:

While the pasta cooks pat steak cubes dry with paper towels. Toss with olive oil salt pepper and smoked paprika.

Sear Steak Bites:

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak cubes in a single layer and sear for 1 2 minutes per side until browned and just cooked through. Remove steak bites to a plate and tent loosely with foil.

Make Garlic Butter:

Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant scraping up browned bits. Return steak bites and any juices to the skillet toss with garlic butter and parsley for 30 seconds. Remove from heat.

Prepare Cheese Sauce:

In a separate saucepan melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk stirring constantly until thickened about 3 4 minutes.

Add Cheese and Pasta:

Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt pepper and nutmeg if using. Add drained pasta shells and stir to coat.

Serve:

Serve steak bites over cheesy shells garnished with extra parsley if desired.

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This dish makes weeknights special whether served at the table with family or shared as a cozy meal while laughing about your day.

Serving Suggestions

Complement with a fresh green salad and steamed vegetables or crusty bread for a heartier meal.

Ingredient Variations

Try substituting ribeye or strip steak for sirloin or add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

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With its savory steak bites and gooey pasta this crowd-pleaser always disappears fast—perfect for any night you want comfort and flavor.

Recipe FAQs

→ What cut of steak works best for this dish?

Sirloin steak is recommended for its balance of tenderness and flavor, but ribeye or strip steak can be used as alternatives.

→ How do I get the steak bites tender and juicy?

Patting the steak dry before searing and cooking over medium-high heat ensures a browned crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

→ Can I prepare the cheesy shells ahead of time?

It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the pasta and cheese sauce separately and combine just before serving to maintain texture.

→ What can I add to enhance the flavor of the pasta shells?

Sautéed mushrooms or spinach can be stirred into the cheese sauce for added flavor and nutrition.

→ Is there a way to add a spicy kick to the dish?

Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the garlic butter step to introduce a mild heat that complements the garlic and cheese.