Name: Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into cubes; 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 8 oz pasta shells; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste

There’s something deeply satisfying about juicy, golden-seared steak bites sizzling in garlic butter, paired with shells of pasta swimming in creamy Parmesan sauce. This dish brings the kind of comfort that sticks with you long after the last bite, yet it’s quick enough to whip up on a weeknight.

The rich flavor of tender steak pairs perfectly with the silky, cheesy pasta shells. Each forkful is indulgent and savory, with garlicky butter clinging to the crispy edges of the beef. Whether you’re cooking for a hungry family or treating yourself to a cozy dinner, this dish is a winner all around.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells Recipe

It’s fast, flavorful, and packed with texture. You get the golden caramelization of steak bites with the lusciousness of creamy pasta, and the whole thing comes together in about 30 minutes. This meal feels fancy but is entirely doable even on a busy night. Plus, it’s totally customizable—swap the shells for your favorite pasta, or spice it up with a dash of chili flakes.

What Cut of Steak Works Best for Garlic Butter Steak Bites?

Sirloin is often the top pick for steak bites. It’s lean, affordable, and cooks quickly while staying juicy. But if you’re feeling extra indulgent, ribeye adds more marbling and flavor. Make sure to cut your steak into evenly sized pieces for a consistent cook. And always pat it dry before searing to get that gorgeous crust.

Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells

For this dish, the ingredients are simple but intentionally chosen to layer flavor and texture.

Steak (sirloin or ribeye): This is the centerpiece. Go for quality cuts and cut into bite-sized cubes.

Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the butter with irresistible aroma and sharpness.

Butter: Use unsalted butter so you can control the seasoning. It gives the steak that glossy, rich finish.

Pasta shells: Medium shells work best to catch every bit of the creamy sauce.

Heavy cream: Adds the luxurious base for the Parmesan sauce.

Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is key for the best melt and flavor.

Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning both the steak and pasta.

Olive oil: Helps the steak sear evenly without burning the butter.

Italian seasoning: Brings in herbs that tie together the savory flavors.

How To Make the Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells

Step 1: Sear the Steak Bites

Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet until shimmering. Add the cubed steak in a single layer and sear on high heat for 2-3 minutes per side. Don’t overcrowd the pan—do it in batches if needed.

Step 2: Add the Garlic Butter

Once the steak is seared, lower the heat and toss in butter and minced garlic. Let it sizzle for a minute until fragrant, spooning the melted butter over the steak to coat each bite.

Step 3: Boil the Pasta Shells

While the steak cooks, boil pasta shells in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce

In a saucepan, simmer heavy cream and a pinch of salt. Gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Let it thicken slightly, then add black pepper and Italian seasoning.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Stir the cooked shells into the cream sauce. Plate the creamy shells and top with garlic butter steak bites. Finish with extra Parmesan and cracked pepper.

Serving and Storing Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells

This meal comfortably feeds 4, making it great for families or a couple with leftovers for the next day. Serve it hot, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you like a pop of green.

To store, let everything cool and pack in airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce back up. The steak can be quickly warmed in a skillet for best texture.

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells?

Garlic Bread

Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside—garlic bread is a natural companion to scoop up extra sauce.

Roasted Asparagus

Adds a light, earthy contrast to balance the richness of the dish.

Caesar Salad

Creamy dressing and crunchy croutons offer a bright counterpoint to the meal.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Sweet and tangy, they bring a colorful veggie to the table.

Grilled Zucchini

Simple and fresh with a bit of char, great with buttery steak.

Sauteed Mushrooms

Deep umami flavors match the richness of the meat.

Lemon-Herb Broccoli

Citrus and herbs cut through the creaminess beautifully.

Want More Steak Dinner Ideas?

If you loved these Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells, try out some of my other hearty dinner favorites:

Steak Tacos with Chipotle Crema if you’re craving smoky heat and tender beef.
Crockpot Steak Bites for a slow-cooked version that melts in your mouth.
Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon to switch things up with seafood.
One Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni for another comfort food favorite.
Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta if you want a vegetarian twist with bold flavor.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it whenever you need a cozy, satisfying meal.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with ribeye or sirloin? Maybe added some chili flakes or fresh thyme?

I love hearing your spins on these recipes. Questions are always welcome too—let’s make dinner delicious together.

Explore health-boosting comfort food and more over at Janet Dishes on Pinterest for daily recipe ideas!

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells is one of those meals that hits the sweet spot of comforting, impressive, and totally doable. It brings together the sizzle of seared steak and the dreamy creaminess of cheese-coated pasta in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a family or savoring a quiet night in, this is the kind of dinner that makes home feel a little more special.