🧀 Creamy Garlic Steak Shells (Hearty Comfort Pasta)
📖 Description
This dish is a rich, cozy pasta made with tender seared steak bites tossed in shell pasta and coated in a creamy garlic–parmesan sauce. The shells पकड़ the sauce in every bite, while melted cheese and herbs add a savory, slightly spicy finish. It’s the kind of meal that feels restaurant-quality but is easy enough for a weeknight.
🍝 Ingredients
- 12 oz shell pasta (conchiglie)
- 1 lb steak (sirloin, ribeye, or strip), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt & black pepper (to taste)
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional, for meltiness)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the pasta
- Boil shells in salted water until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
2. Sear the steak
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season steak with salt and pepper.
- Sear until browned (about 2–3 minutes per side).
- Remove and set aside.
3. Make the sauce
- In the same pan, lower heat and add garlic. Cook 30 seconds.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir.
- Add parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
- Simmer until slightly thickened.
4. Combine everything
- Add pasta and steak back into the pan.
- Toss to coat evenly.
- Add reserved pasta water if needed to loosen sauce.
5. Finish
- Sprinkle mozzarella on top and let melt (cover pan or broil briefly).
- Garnish with parsley and extra parmesan.
❓ Q&A (Helpful Tips)
Q: What cut of steak works best?
A: Sirloin is affordable and tender, but ribeye gives the richest flavor.
Q: Can I substitute the steak?
A: Yes—chicken, shrimp, or even mushrooms work great.
Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Q: Can I make it lighter?
A: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce cheese slightly.
Q: Why is my sauce too thick?
A: Add a splash of reserved pasta water or milk to loosen it.
Q: Can I store leftovers?
A: Yes, refrigerate up to 3 days. Reheat with a bit of milk or cream.