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If you are craving a meal that perfectly marries bold flavors with creamy comfort, look no further than this Indulgent Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Chipotle Shells Recipe. It’s a divine combination of tender, succulent steak bites rich with garlic butter, paired with pasta shells bathed in a smoky, cheesy chipotle cream sauce that feels like a warm, spicy hug. This dish is stunningly simple yet remarkably indulgent—a true crowd-pleaser that transforms everyday ingredients into a gourmet experience you’ll want to savor again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this recipe lies in its straightforward and essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from the juicy richness of the steak to the smoky chipotle kick in the creamy cheese sauce. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:
- 1 pound Sirloin or Ribeye Steak: These cuts offer the perfect tenderness and flavor but feel free to use flank steak for a leaner alternative.
- 3 tablespoons Butter: Adds an irresistible richness and silky texture when combined with garlic.
- 4 cloves Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the steak bites with bright aroma and mouthwatering depth.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper: Use freshly ground pepper for a subtle heat that complements the steak perfectly.
- 2 cans Chipotle Peppers in Adobo: These give the creamy sauce a smoky, spicy depth that elevates the dish to another level.
- 1 cup White Cheddar Cheese: Shredded for quick melting, it lends sharpness and creaminess to the pasta.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream: Provides luscious creaminess to balance the heat and create a silky sauce.
- 8 ounces Pasta Shells: These “little pockets” are perfect for holding the creamy sauce; gluten-free shells work as a great alternative.
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, herbal finish and a pop of color when sprinkled on top.
How to Make Indulgent Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Chipotle Shells Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Steak
Start by patting your sirloin or ribeye steak cubes dry with paper towels—this step is key for achieving that coveted caramelized crust. Generously season them with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then let the steak rest for about 10 minutes so the flavors can settle and the meat can come closer to room temperature, ensuring even cooking.
Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites
Heat up a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for a few minutes until hot. Place the steak cubes in a single layer without overcrowding to get a beautiful caramelized sear. Cook them for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side—quick, intense heat will lock in those juicy flavors while creating a mouthwatering crust.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Coating
Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to burn it. Add the steak bites back to the skillet and gently coat them in the glossy garlic butter, allowing them to soak up those irresistible flavors.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta Shells
While the steak rests in its savory butter, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta shells and cook according to the package directions, usually 7 to 10 minutes, until al dente. Drain well, because you’ll want your creamy sauce to cling perfectly to the pasta without becoming watery.
Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Chipotle Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, warm heavy cream and add finely chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Stir this smoky mixture for about 3 minutes to marry the flavors before whisking in shredded white cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts smoothly and the sauce turns luxuriously creamy.
Step 6: Combine Pasta with the Creamy Sauce
Gently fold the drained pasta shells into the cheese sauce, coating each shell in that smoky, cheesy goodness. Let it all cook together on low heat for an extra minute to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor.
Step 7: Assemble Your Indulgent Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Chipotle Shells Recipe
Plate the creamy chipotle shells first, then generously spoon the garlic butter steak bites on top. For a fresh touch, sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish. The combination of the spicy, creamy pasta and juicy garlic butter steak bites is pure magic in every forkful.
How to Serve Indulgent Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Chipotle Shells Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens the deep rich tones of this dish and adds a lovely herbal contrast that wakes up the palate. For extra zing, a little squeeze of lemon over the top can add freshness and balance the creaminess beautifully. If you love heat, a few extra chopped chipotle peppers make a fiery garnish that intensifies the smoky character.
Side Dishes
This dish shines as a complete meal but pairs wonderfully with a crisp, refreshing side salad to cut through the richness. Think mixed greens tossed with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts that add texture and earthy flavor without competing with those indulgent steak bites and creamy shells.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow guests, serve this recipe in individual shallow bowls to showcase the contrast between the creamy pasta and perfectly seared steak. Alternatively, offering toasted garlic bread on the side invites diners to scoop up every last bit of that luscious chipotle sauce. For an elegant twist, try garnishing with finely shaved aged cheddar or a dusting of smoked paprika.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Indulgent Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Chipotle Shells Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep delicious for up to 3 days—just be sure to cool it completely before sealing to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, but for best texture, consider freezing the steak bites and creamy pasta separately. Store each in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for the gentlest reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the creamy pasta gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from splitting. Heat the steak bites separately in a skillet to refresh their crisp sear, then combine everything just before serving for the tastiest experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye are recommended for their tenderness and flavor, flank or skirt steak can work if you prefer a leaner option. Just be sure to slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.
How spicy is the chipotle sauce?
The chipotle peppers in adobo provide a smoky heat that’s warming but not overpowering. You can adjust the amount of chipotle to your preference—using fewer peppers will mellow the spice, while adding more amps it up nicely.
Is there a dairy-free way to make the creamy sauce?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Keep in mind this will alter the flavor profile slightly but still yield a creamy, indulgent result.
Can I prepare this recipe for meal prep?
This dish is great for meal prep since the components hold up well in the fridge. Just keep the steak and pasta separate if possible, then combine and warm before eating for optimal texture and flavor.
What kind of pasta shells work best?
Medium-sized pasta shells are ideal for capturing the creamy sauce. If gluten-free is needed, look for gluten-free shells that match this size to ensure the right balance and mouthfeel.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try the Indulgent Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Chipotle Shells Recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes for a decadent weeknight dinner or when you want to impress with minimal fuss. Its spectacular blend of juicy steak, heavenly garlic butter, and smoky, creamy pasta hits all the right notes. So go ahead and indulge—you deserve it!
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Indulgent Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Chipotle Shells Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulgent Garlic Butter Steak Bites paired with creamy, spicy chipotle-infused pasta shells create a rich and satisfying meal perfect for a flavorful dinner. Tender seared steak cubes are coated in garlic butter and served over cheesy pasta shells with a smoky chipotle cream sauce, garnished with fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Steak Bites
- 1 pound Sirloin or Ribeye Steak (Flank steak can be used for a leaner version)
- 3 tablespoons Butter
- 4 cloves Garlic, freshly minced
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground
Creamy Chipotle Pasta
- 2 cans Chipotle Peppers in Adobo
- 1 cup White Cheddar Cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 8 ounces Pasta Shells (Gluten-free shells can be used)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Steak Preparation: Pat the sirloin or ribeye steak cubes dry using paper towels. Season them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let the steak rest for about 10 minutes to absorb the seasoning.
- Searing the Steak: Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes. Place the steak cubes in a single layer and sear for 1-2 minutes on each side until they develop a deep caramelized crust.
- Garlic Butter Coating: Reduce the heat to medium within the same skillet. Add the butter and let it melt completely. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Return the seared steak bites to the skillet and toss to coat them well in the garlic butter mixture.
- Cooking the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 7-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Making Chipotle Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan over medium heat, gently warm the heavy cream. Add finely chopped chipotle peppers and stir for about 3 minutes to infuse the cream with smoky heat. Whisk in the shredded white cheddar cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combining Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta shells to the cheese sauce and gently toss to coat each shell evenly. Allow the mixture to cook on low heat for one minute to meld the flavors together.
- Serving: Plate the creamy chipotle pasta shells and top generously with the garlic butter steak bites. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a fresh herbal note.
Notes
- For a leaner option, flank steak can be substituted for sirloin or ribeye.
- Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers based on your preferred spice level.
- Using a cast-iron skillet helps achieve a better sear on the steak for enhanced flavor.
- Gluten-free pasta shells can be used to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Allow the steak to rest briefly after seasoning to improve flavor absorption.
