Garlic Butter Steak Perfection

This juicy steak bites and creamy Parmesan pasta dish combines tender beef with rich Alfredo sauce for a restaurant-quality meal at home. The contrast between savory garlic butter steak and velvety pasta creates a perfect balance that satisfies even the pickiest eaters in my household.

I discovered this recipe when trying to impress my in-laws during their first visit to our home. The combination of tender steak and creamy pasta won them over completely, and now it's requested at every family gathering we host.

Ingredients

• 1 lb beef steak: cut into small cubes perfect for quick cooking and even browning
• 4 tbsp butter: creates a rich base for the steak while adding flavor
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: adds aromatic depth to the dish
• Salt and pepper: to taste, essential for bringing out the beef's natural flavors
• 1 lb pasta shells: the perfect shape for catching creamy sauce in each bite
• 2 cups heavy cream: forms the luxurious base for the Alfredo sauce
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: adds salty complexity and thickens the sauce
• Fresh parsley, chopped: brightens the dish with color and fresh flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Steak:

Generously coat steak cubes with salt and pepper ensuring each piece is well seasoned on all sides. Let the meat sit at room temperature for 10 minutes while preparing other ingredients to ensure even cooking.

Create the Garlic Butter Base:

In a large cast iron skillet over medium high heat melt the butter completely until it begins to foam slightly. Add minced garlic and stir continuously for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned which would create bitterness.

Cook the Steak Bites:

Add seasoned steak cubes to the hot garlic butter in a single layer making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes without stirring to develop a nice crust then flip each piece and cook for another 1-2 minutes for medium rare or longer based on your preference.

Prepare the Pasta:

While the steak cooks bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta shells and cook according to package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Create the Alfredo Sauce:

In a separate saucepan over medium heat pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until completely melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Add drained pasta shells directly to the Alfredo sauce stirring gently but thoroughly to ensure each shell is coated with the creamy sauce. Allow to simmer together for 1 minute so the pasta absorbs some of the flavor.

Serve and Garnish:

Plate the creamy pasta shells then top with the garlic butter steak bites ensuring the flavorful butter drizzles onto the pasta. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired before serving immediately.

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The richness of the butter combined with garlic creates magic with beef. I discovered this while working in a steakhouse during college where the head chef taught me that the simplest ingredients often create the most memorable flavors. My kids now request this dish for special occasions and birthdays saying the steak bites are better than any restaurant.

Best Steak Cuts to Use

Ribeye offers the richest flavor with beautiful marbling that becomes incredibly tender when cubed and quickly cooked. The fat content in ribeye contributes to a more luxurious mouthfeel when paired with the Alfredo pasta. If ribeye is outside your budget sirloin provides excellent flavor at a lower price point while still maintaining good tenderness. For the most economical option flank steak works well when cut against the grain into bite-sized pieces and not overcooked.

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Make Ahead Options

This dish can be partially prepped in advance to streamline dinner service. Cut and season the steak up to 24 hours ahead storing covered in the refrigerator. The Alfredo sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and gently reheated with a splash of milk or cream to restore its silky texture. For best results always cook the steak fresh just before serving to maintain its juicy tenderness. The pasta can be cooked 1-2 minutes shy of package directions then finished in the reheated sauce for a quick assembly.

Flavor Variations

Transform this dish with simple additions that create entirely new flavor profiles. Add sautéed mushrooms to the garlic butter for an earthy complement to the steak. Incorporate sun dried tomatoes and spinach into the Alfredo sauce for a Mediterranean twist with beautiful color contrast. For a spicy kick add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter or stir in chopped roasted red peppers to the finished sauce for sweetness and visual appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I cook steak bites perfectly?

Season the steak bites with salt and pepper, then sauté in hot butter until browned. Avoid overcrowding the pan for even cooking.

→ What type of pasta works best with this dish?

Pasta shells are ideal as they hold the creamy Alfredo sauce well, but other types like fettuccine or penne can also work.

→ Can I use pre-grated Parmesan for the sauce?

Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for the best texture and flavor, but pre-grated cheese can be used in a pinch.

→ How do I prevent the Alfredo sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat low and add the Parmesan gradually while stirring constantly to maintain a smooth consistency.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream in the sauce?

You can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese for a lighter but still creamy sauce.