Julia Walton
Savor the irresistible combination of tender, juicy steak bites bathed in rich garlic butter and paired with creamy chipotle white cheddar shells. This dish captures the best of both worlds: bold, meaty flavors from perfectly seared steak and a luxurious, smoky cheese sauce that clings to every shell of pasta. It’s comfort food with an indulgent twist, perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive weekend treat.
The aroma alone will have everyone rushing to the table. The steak bites are seasoned and seared to develop a deep crust, while the chipotle-infused cheese sauce adds just the right kick of smokiness to complement the buttery richness. It’s a dish that feels restaurant-quality but can be made right in your own kitchen.
What Makes These Garlic Butter Steak Bites Special?
The magic comes from the sear and the butter. Searing locks in the juices, giving each bite a tender, flavorful center with a crispy, caramelized exterior. Tossing the steak in melted garlic butter infuses every piece with savory goodness, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience. When paired with the creamy chipotle white cheddar shells, the balance of spicy, creamy, and savory flavors is irresistible.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells
- Sirloin or Ribeye Steak: A well-marbled cut ensures tender, flavorful bites.
- Butter: For the luscious garlic coating that makes the steak shine.
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses the butter with a robust aroma.
- Chipotle Peppers in Adobo: Adds a smoky, slightly spicy kick to the cheese sauce.
- White Cheddar Cheese: Melts into a creamy, indulgent sauce that coats the shells perfectly.
- Heavy Cream or Whole Milk: Creates the rich and velvety texture of the pasta sauce.
- Pasta Shells: The perfect shape to capture every drop of sauce.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning both the steak and the sauce.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): Adds a touch of color and freshness to finish the dish.
How To Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Pat the steak dry and cut into bite-sized cubes. Season generously with salt and black pepper. This ensures a flavorful crust when searing.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil and sear the steak cubes for 1-2 minutes per side until browned and caramelized. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic, letting it bubble until fragrant. Return the steak to the pan and toss to coat in the garlic butter.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta Shells
Boil the pasta shells in salted water according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 5: Prepare the Chipotle White Cheddar Sauce
In a saucepan, combine heavy cream and chopped chipotle peppers. Heat gently until warm, then whisk in shredded white cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Toss the cooked pasta shells in the chipotle white cheddar sauce. Top with garlic butter steak bites and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Serving and Storing Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells
Serve this dish hot to enjoy the creamy pasta and juicy steak at their best. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce without drying the steak.
What to Serve With Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells
Garlic Bread
The buttery, garlicky bread is perfect for scooping up extra cheese sauce.
Simple Garden Salad
A crisp salad with tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta and steak.
Roasted Asparagus
Lightly roasted asparagus adds a fresh, earthy flavor that complements the dish.
Sautéed Mushrooms
Mushrooms enhance the steak’s savory notes and pair beautifully with the garlic butter.
Creamed Spinach
A classic steakhouse side that brings creamy and slightly bitter greens to the table.
Parmesan Roasted Broccoli
Crispy, cheesy broccoli provides a lighter, crunchy contrast.
Crispy Onion Rings
These add a fun and crunchy side to the indulgent main dish.
Caesar Salad
A chilled Caesar salad with croutons and parmesan adds a refreshing, tangy element.
Want More Comfort Food Dinner Ideas?
If you enjoyed these steak bites, you’ll love these savory options from SavorQueen:
- Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce
- Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
- Cheeseburger Soup
- Easy Beef Stroganoff
- Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
Save This Pin For Later
Save this flavorful dish to your favorite Pinterest board to make it again whenever the craving hits!
Tried it with a twist? Maybe a drizzle of hot honey or extra chipotle? I’d love to hear your ideas—share your tips in the comments below.
Need more inspiration? Explore my daily creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest for even more delicious ideas.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells
Equipment
- Cast Iron Skillet
- Saucepan
- Mixing spoon
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo, finely chopped
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz pasta shells
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Pat steak dry and cut into bite-sized cubes. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high and sear steak for 1–2 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Toss steak in garlic butter to coat.
- Boil pasta shells in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, warm heavy cream and chipotle peppers. Stir in shredded white cheddar until melted and smooth.
- Toss pasta shells with chipotle white cheddar sauce. Serve topped with garlic butter steak bites and parsley.