Name: Cajun Steak Bites with Cheesy Garlic Shell Pasta Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb steak, cut into bite-sized pieces; 8 oz shell pasta; 1 ½ tbsp Cajun seasoning; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tbsp butter; 1 tbsp olive oil; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

This sizzling skillet dinner brings serious flavor with minimal effort. Cajun steak bites are pan-seared until perfectly crisp on the edges and juicy inside, then nestled into a bed of cheesy garlic shell pasta that feels like comfort food in its finest form. The bold spice of the Cajun seasoning complements the creamy, garlicky cheese sauce in a way that’s downright addictive.

Whether you’re cooking for a hungry family or craving a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe delivers on all fronts. It hits that sweet spot between hearty and indulgent, without being heavy or complicated. You can have it all ready in about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight choice that still feels like a treat.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Steak Bites with Cheesy Garlic Shell Pasta Skillet

The Cajun seasoning gives the steak bites a smoky, peppery kick, which balances beautifully with the creamy garlic cheese sauce coating the pasta. It’s a full meal in one skillet with rich flavors, tender meat, and satisfying pasta all working together. It also reheats well for leftovers, and you can switch up the protein or pasta shape for endless variations.

What Kind of Steak Should I Use?

For this dish, look for cuts that are tender and cook quickly. Sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip are all great options. You want something that sears beautifully but stays juicy. Cut the steak into bite-sized cubes for even cooking, and make sure your pan is hot before they hit the skillet to get that caramelized crust. Avoid overly lean cuts like round steak, which can end up too tough without a marinade.

Ingredients for the Cajun Steak Bites with Cheesy Garlic Shell Pasta Skillet

What makes this recipe so satisfying is the balance of bold Cajun spice with a rich, cheesy pasta base. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture, from the seared meat to the melty cheese and savory garlic.

Steak
Shell pasta
Cajun seasoning
Heavy cream
Shredded cheddar cheese
Parmesan cheese
Garlic cloves
Butter
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Fresh parsley

The steak is the protein star, bringing juicy, flavorful bites to contrast the creamy pasta. Shell pasta is ideal for catching all the cheese sauce in its curves. Cajun seasoning provides heat and depth. Heavy cream, cheddar, and Parmesan create the decadent, velvety sauce. Garlic builds savory foundation, while butter and olive oil make for rich searing and sauce blending. Finish with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of parsley to brighten it all.

How To Make the Cajun Steak Bites with Cheesy Garlic Shell Pasta Skillet

Step 1: Prep and Season the Steak

Cut your chosen steak into bite-sized cubes. Toss them in a generous amount of Cajun seasoning, a pinch of salt, and a crack of black pepper. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the steak bites in a single layer, cooking in batches if needed. Sear until browned on all sides and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Boil the Pasta

Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the shell pasta until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain.

Step 4: Make the Cheesy Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet used for the steak, melt some butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Gradually add shredded cheddar and Parmesan, letting them melt into the sauce. Use a bit of reserved pasta water if the sauce gets too thick.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until evenly coated. Gently fold in the steak bites, letting them reheat slightly in the sauce. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

How to Serve and Store Cajun Steak Bites with Cheesy Garlic Shell Pasta Skillet

This skillet is perfect for serving straight from the pan at the center of your table. The melty cheese and rich sauce hold heat well, so guests can scoop their portions as they please. It feeds about 4 people generously, but you can easily double the recipe for a crowd.

Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce, or microwave gently. The flavors deepen as it sits, making the next-day portion even better.

What to Serve With Cajun Steak Bites with Cheesy Garlic Shell Pasta Skillet?

Garlic Bread

To soak up every last bit of that cheesy garlic sauce, nothing beats warm, crusty garlic bread.

Roasted Broccoli

A simple side of roasted broccoli brings some green to the plate and balances the richness of the dish.

Simple Green Salad

A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness and a contrast in texture.

Grilled Asparagus

Lightly charred asparagus spears pair wonderfully with steak and creamy pasta.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Mushrooms add an earthy depth that complements both the Cajun steak and the cheese sauce.

Cornbread Muffins

A Southern-inspired touch that adds just the right amount of sweetness.

Pickled Vegetables

For a tangy bite to cut through the richness, a few pickled veggies on the side can be a game-changer.

Sparkling Lemon Water

A refreshing drink to cleanse the palate between hearty bites.

Want More Skillet Dinner Ideas?

If you enjoyed these Cajun steak bites with cheesy garlic shell pasta, here are a few more skillet meals from Janet Dishes that are sure to impress:

Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta for a tender, juicy option with extra cheesy goodness.
One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni if you’re in the mood for something with a little heat and lots of comfort.
Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta when you want to go meatless but still keep it rich and flavorful.
Creamy Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Potatoes and Mushrooms for a full, cozy meal in one pan.
Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet if you’re craving something meaty, nourishing, and easy.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how it turned out for you. Did you switch up the cheese blend? Add shrimp or extra veggies? I love seeing the creative spins you put on it.

Questions welcome too—let’s help each other make dinner the best part of the day.

Explore beautifully curated comfort meals and weeknight staples on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to dinners!

Conclusion

Cajun steak bites with cheesy garlic shell pasta skillet is everything you want in a weeknight dinner: quick, full of flavor, and indulgently satisfying. With a bold kick from the steak and a blanket of creamy, garlicky pasta underneath, it’s a meal you’ll find yourself making again and again. Great for impressing guests or keeping it casual with family, this dish brings everyone to the table.