Ingredients

1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes

2 tbsp olive oil (for steak)

4 cloves garlic, minced (for steak and sauce)

4 tbsp butter (divided)

1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves

1 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp salt (divided)

1/4 tsp black pepper (divided)

8 oz shell pasta

2 tbsp olive oil (for pasta)

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced (for sauce)

1/8 tsp black pepper

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the shell pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water for later use.

Step 2: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil. Add the steak cubes and season with smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Cook for 4-5 minutes, turning to brown all sides and cook to your desired doneness. Remove the steak bites and set aside.

Step 3: In the same skillet, add 4 tablespoons butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the fresh thyme leaves.

Step 4: Lower the heat to medium-low. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, then pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your preferred consistency.

Step 5: Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss gently to combine with the pasta and sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a bright finish and extra flavor.

Tips & Variations

For a smoky twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper when seasoning the steak bites.

You can substitute sirloin with ribeye or filet mignon for different textures and flavors.

If you don’t have shell pasta, other small pasta shapes like penne or farfalle work well too.

Use fresh Parmesan cheese for a more flavorful and creamy sauce.

To make this dish lighter, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or use a creamy coconut milk alternative.

FAQs

Can I use frozen steak bites for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh steak cubes for even cooking and better texture. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure proper browning.

What’s the best way to get the steak bites tender?

Choosing a tender cut like sirloin and cooking the steak quickly over medium-high heat helps keep the bites juicy. Avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.