Prep time: 15 mins | Cook time: 20 mins | Servings: 4
Ingredients
- The Steak:
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye, cut into bite-sized cubes.
- 2 tbsp butter (for searing).
- Salt and black pepper to taste.
- The Pasta: 12 oz medium pasta shells.
- The Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced.
- 1 cup heavy cream.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick).
- Garnish: Fresh chopped parsley.
Instructions
- Boil: Cook the pasta shells in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small amount of pasta water.
- Sear Steak: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tbsp of butter. Season steak bites with salt and pepper, then sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 4 tbsp of butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Simmer: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Combine: Add the cooked shells and seared steak bites back into the skillet. Toss thoroughly to coat everything in the garlic butter sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.
- Finish: Top with a dusting of extra Parmesan and fresh parsley. Serve immediately while the sauce is hot and creamy.