Sally Winter
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this mouthwatering combination of juicy garlic butter steak bites and rich, creamy loaded cheddar Alfredo shells. The tender steak pieces are seared to perfection and tossed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce, while the cheesy pasta shells are smothered in a velvety Alfredo sauce topped with cheddar for that extra indulgence. It’s the kind of meal that turns an ordinary evening into a cozy, restaurant-worthy dinner at home.
This dish effortlessly blends hearty and creamy elements, making it perfect for family dinners, weekend gatherings, or even an at-home date night. Every bite balances the buttery, garlicky richness of the steak with the smooth, cheesy comfort of the pasta. Whether you’re craving something savory and filling or looking to impress your guests with a minimal-effort, high-reward recipe, this dish is a winner.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells
This recipe is the definition of satisfying comfort food. Juicy steak bites cooked in a garlic butter glaze bring a bold flavor, while the Alfredo shells provide a creamy, cheesy counterpart. It’s also incredibly quick to prepare and gives that homemade gourmet feeling without spending hours in the kitchen.
What Kind of Steak Should I Use for Steak Bites?
The best cuts for steak bites are tender and cook quickly, such as sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin. These cuts absorb the garlic butter flavors beautifully while remaining juicy and flavorful. Sirloin offers a leaner bite, while ribeye delivers a richer, buttery taste. Whatever cut you choose, ensure the meat is cut into even cubes to achieve an even sear.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells
To create this savory and creamy meal, you’ll need ingredients that complement each other perfectly. The steak bites bring protein and rich flavor, while the loaded Alfredo shells provide creamy, cheesy comfort.
- Steak (sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin): The star of the dish, providing rich and juicy bites.
- Butter: Essential for the garlic butter sauce and to add richness.
- Garlic cloves: Freshly minced garlic enhances the steak and sauce flavor.
- Olive oil: Helps sear the steak to perfection.
- Salt and black pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance the natural flavors.
- Pasta shells: Perfect for catching the cheesy Alfredo sauce.
- Heavy cream: Forms the base of the Alfredo sauce.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds the signature creamy, savory taste to the sauce.
- Cheddar cheese: Gives the dish its “loaded” cheesy twist.
- Fresh parsley: For garnish and a pop of color.
How To Make the Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells
Step 1: Sear the Steak Bites
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the steak cubes dry, season with salt and pepper, and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Lower the heat and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta Shells
Boil the pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
Step 4: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
In a saucepan, heat heavy cream over medium heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese and whisk until smooth and creamy. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
Step 5: Combine for Loaded Cheddar Shells
Add the cooked shells to the Alfredo sauce, then sprinkle in shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Plate the creamy shells alongside the garlic butter steak bites. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy immediately.
Serving and Storing Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells
This hearty recipe serves 4 people, making it a perfect family dinner or small gathering meal. Serve it hot, right off the skillet, for the best taste and texture. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to keep the pasta creamy.
What to Serve With Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells?
1. Garlic Bread
Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
2. Steamed Broccoli
Adds a light and healthy contrast to the creamy, cheesy pasta.
3. Caesar Salad
Crisp romaine with tangy dressing balances the richness of the dish.
4. Roasted Asparagus
Tender, roasted asparagus brings an earthy and slightly sweet flavor.
5. Mixed Green Salad with Vinaigrette
Fresh greens with a light dressing keep the meal from feeling too heavy.
6. Sparkling Water or Light Wine
A refreshing drink to cleanse the palate between bites.
7. Lemon-Butter Green Beans
Bright and buttery, they add freshness to your plate.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While shells are perfect for holding the sauce, you can substitute with penne, rigatoni, or even fettuccine.
2. Can I cook the steak bites in advance?
You can sear them ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently in the garlic butter sauce before serving.
3. How do I prevent my Alfredo sauce from clumping?
Use freshly grated Parmesan and keep the heat on medium-low. Whisk constantly until smooth.
4. Can I make this recipe lighter?
Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or milk, and use less cheese. The sauce will be thinner but still tasty.
5. Can I freeze this dish?
Steak bites freeze well, but Alfredo sauce can separate after thawing. For best results, freeze the steak separately and make fresh sauce when ready to serve.
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Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells
Equipment
- Skillet
- Saucepan
- Strainer
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 8 oz pasta shells
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Pat steak cubes dry, season with salt and pepper, and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Lower heat to medium, melt butter in the skillet, add minced garlic, and cook for 30 seconds. Return steak bites and coat in garlic butter. Remove from heat.
- Cook pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving ¼ cup pasta water.
- In a saucepan, heat heavy cream over medium heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese and whisk until smooth. Adjust with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Stir pasta shells into the Alfredo sauce. Add cheddar cheese and mix until melted and creamy.
- Serve steak bites alongside loaded shells. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy warm.