Julia Walton
Juicy, seared steak bites paired with creamy, cheese-loaded Alfredo shells create the ultimate comfort food plate. This combination delivers bold, garlicky steak flavor alongside pasta shells that cradle a rich, cheddar-kissed sauce. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug at the end of the day, perfect for family dinners, date nights, or when you just want to spoil yourself.
The steak bites are cooked until perfectly browned on the outside while remaining tender and juicy inside. The Alfredo shells are extra indulgent, with sharp cheddar cheese melting into a luscious cream sauce that clings to every curve of the pasta. Together, they form a hearty, satisfying meal that balances savory, creamy, and cheesy notes in every bite.
What Kind of Steak Should I Use?
For steak bites, tenderness is key. Cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin are excellent choices because they cook quickly and stay juicy. Sirloin offers great flavor at a more affordable price, while ribeye delivers maximum marbling for rich taste. Trim excess fat before cutting the meat into uniform cubes for even cooking.
Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells
- Steak – The star of the plate, delivering hearty, meaty flavor.
- Garlic – Infuses both the steak and sauce with irresistible aroma.
- Butter – Helps sear the steak and create a silky, rich sauce base.
- Medium Pasta Shells – Perfect for catching every drop of cheddar Alfredo goodness.
- Heavy Cream – Provides the creamy body for the sauce.
- Cheddar Cheese – Sharp, melty, and full of bold flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds salty, nutty depth to the Alfredo.
- Parsley – Brings freshness and a pop of color.
- Salt & Pepper – Enhances and balances the flavors.
How To Make the Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Pat the steak dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Cut it into bite-sized cubes and season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of butter and swirl until melted. Place steak cubes in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Base
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add minced garlic with the remaining butter. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream, stirring to combine.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses
Reduce heat to low. Gradually whisk in cheddar and Parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta Shells
While preparing the sauce, cook pasta shells in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
Step 6: Combine Pasta with Sauce
Add cooked pasta shells to the Alfredo sauce, tossing until each shell is coated in cheesy goodness.
Step 7: Bring It All Together
Return the steak bites to the skillet, stirring gently to combine with the pasta. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Serving and Storing Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells
Serve this dish hot right out of the skillet for the most indulgent experience. The sauce will be at its creamiest and the steak at its juiciest when fresh. If you need to store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s silky texture.
What to Serve With Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells
1. Garlic Bread
Buttery, crisp, and perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
2. Caesar Salad
A crisp, tangy salad helps cut through the richness.
3. Roasted Broccoli
Adds a slightly bitter, earthy contrast to the creamy pasta.
4. Caprese Salad
Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil bring brightness to the meal.
5. Creamed Spinach
Keeps with the indulgent theme while adding some greens.
6. Sauteed Mushrooms
Deep, earthy flavor complements the steak perfectly.
7. Grilled Asparagus
Smoky and tender with a touch of char.
8. Simple Green Beans
Lightly seasoned and steamed for a fresh, crisp bite.
Want More Dinner Ideas with a Gourmet Twist?
If you enjoyed these Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells, you’ll love exploring these other SavorQueen creations:
- Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni – Another rich, steak-forward pasta dish.
- Ultimate One-Pan Creamy Honey Butter Steak Pasta – Sweet, savory, and creamy all in one.
- One-Pan Cajun Honey Butter Steak Pasta Wonder – A spiced-up twist for bold flavor lovers.
- Spicy Cajun Steak Mozzarella Alfredo Pasta – Creamy Alfredo with a Cajun kick.
- Easy Beef Stroganoff – A classic comfort food with tender beef and creamy sauce.
Save This Pin For Later
Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.
Tried it with a twist? Maybe a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a handful of crispy bacon bits? Share your ideas and results in the comments—I love hearing from you!
Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Large pot
- Colander
- Whisk
- Chef’s knife
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tsp kosher salt, divided
- 1 tsp black pepper, divided
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 oz medium pasta shells
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 0.5 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 0.5 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Pat steak cubes dry; season with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper.
- Heat 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high; sear steak 1–2 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.
- Cook pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente; reserve 1/4 cup pasta water and drain.
- Reduce skillet heat to medium; add remaining 2 tbsp butter and garlic. Sauté 30 seconds.
- Stir in heavy cream; simmer gently. Whisk in cheddar and Parmesan until smooth. Season with remaining 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper.
- Toss shells in the sauce, loosening with reserved pasta water as needed.
- Fold in steak bites and juices; garnish with parsley and optional paprika/red pepper flakes. Serve hot.