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## Step-by-Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells
Now that you have your ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making **Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells**. It’s a relatively straightforward recipe that can be made in less than an hour, but the result is a luxurious, mouthwatering meal that feels like a gourmet experience.
### Step 1: Prepare the Steak Bites
1. **Cut the Steak**: Begin by cutting your steak into bite-sized cubes. Aim for cubes about 1 to 1.5 inches in size. This will help them cook quickly and evenly.
2. **Season the Steak**: Season the steak cubes generously with salt and pepper. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat or lemon zest for a fresh citrus kick.
3. **Sear the Steak**: Heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the steak cubes and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C), and for medium, aim for 140°F (60°C). Remove the steak bites from the skillet and set them aside.
4. **Make the Garlic Butter Sauce**: In the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
5. **Toss the Steak in the Sauce**: Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce until they are well coated. Add freshly chopped parsley, and if you prefer, squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the top for extra brightness.
6. **Let the Steak Rest**: Allow the steak bites to rest in the skillet for a couple of minutes so they can absorb the flavors of the garlic butter sauce. This will help lock in the juiciness and tenderness of the meat.
### Step 2: Make the Creamy Parmesan Shells
1. **Cook the Pasta**: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shell pasta and cook according to the package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. **Make the Creamy Sauce**: While the pasta is cooking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring the cream to a simmer and let it cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
3. **Add the Parmesan**: Lower the heat to low and slowly stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. **Combine the Pasta and Sauce**: Add the drained pasta shells to the creamy Parmesan sauce and toss until the pasta is fully coated. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
### Step 3: Serve the Dish
Now that both the steak bites and creamy Parmesan shells are ready, it’s time to plate and serve.
1. **Arrange the Steak Bites**: Place the garlic butter steak bites on a platter or individual plates. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter sauce from the skillet over the top.
2. **Serve the Creamy Parmesan Shells**: Serve the creamy Parmesan shells alongside the steak bites. Garnish the pasta with a bit of extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and added flavor.
3. **Optional Additions**: If desired, you can add some steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or asparagus, to complete the meal and add a pop of color.
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## Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells
– **Choose the Right Cut of Steak**: For the best results, opt for cuts of steak that are tender and cook quickly. Ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon are excellent choices for steak bites.
– **Don’t Overcook the Steak**: Steak bites cook quickly, so be careful not to overcook them. They should be tender and juicy, so aim for medium-rare to medium doneness for the best flavor.
– **Use Fresh Parmesan**: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese makes a significant difference in the flavor and texture of the creamy sauce. Avoid pre-grated cheese for a more authentic and creamy texture.
– **Adjust the Cream Sauce Consistency**: If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a little bit of reserved pasta cooking water. This will also help the sauce adhere better to the pasta.
– **Add Vegetables for Balance**: To add more color and nutrition to the dish, consider serving the steak bites and creamy Parmesan shells with a side of vegetables, such as roasted broccoli or sautéed spinach.
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## Variations and Customizations
While **Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells** is a fantastic dish as it is, there are several ways to customize it based on your preferences or dietary restrictions:
– **Make It Spicy**: Add some chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to both the steak bites and the creamy Parmesan sauce for a spicy kick.
– **Swap the Steak**: If you prefer chicken or pork, you can swap the steak for chicken breast or pork tenderloin, following the same searing and sauce-making methods.
– **Vegan Version**: For a vegan version of the creamy Parmesan shells, substitute the butter and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives like coconut cream or cashew cream. Use vegan Parmesan cheese as well.
– **Add Mushrooms**: Mushrooms pair wonderfully with both steak and creamy Parmesan sauce. Sauté some sliced mushrooms and add them to the garlic butter sauce for extra umami flavor.
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## Conclusion
**Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Parmesan Shells** is a perfect dish for steak lovers and comfort food fans alike. The savory, tender steak bites paired with the creamy, cheesy pasta create a luxurious meal that is sure to impress. Whether you’re preparing a special dinner or a weeknight treat, this dish is easy to make, full of flavor, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So fire up your skillet, grab your pasta shells, and get ready to enjoy this indulgent meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.
