If you’re craving a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Juicy Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells Recipe. It’s that perfect blend of tender, savory steak bites drenched in rich garlic butter paired with luscious, smoky chipotle-infused cheesy pasta shells. Every bite brings a delightful explosion of flavor and comfort, making it an instant favorite you’ll want to share with everyone you love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of the ingredients fool you—each one plays a vital role in creating those dynamic layers of taste, texture, and vibrant color. From the buttery steak bites to the creamy chipotle cheddar sauce over pasta shells, every element works together to make this dish sing.
- 1 lb Sirloin or Ribeye Steak: Choose ribeye for extra marbling or sirloin for a leaner yet flavorful bite.
- 2 tbsp Butter: Adds richness and helps build that irresistible garlic butter sauce; olive oil works too for a lighter touch.
- 3 Cloves Garlic, minced: Imparts fragrant, savory depth that elevates the steak bites beautifully.
- 1 tsp Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the steak’s natural flavors.
- 0.5 tsp Black Pepper: Provides a subtle heat that balances the richness.
- 2 Chipotle Peppers in Adobo, finely chopped: Brings a smoky, spicy kick to the cheesy pasta that’s simply addictive.
- 1 cup White Cheddar Cheese, shredded: Melts smoothly into a creamy sauce; sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack are fun alternatives.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream: Creates the luscious base for the chipotle white cheddar sauce; half-and-half works if you want it lighter.
- 8 oz Pasta Shells: Perfect for holding that creamy sauce in every curve, but any pasta shape you love will do.
- 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh, bright pop of color and flavor for garnish.
How to Make Juicy Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Steak
Begin by patting your steak dry to ensure a perfect sear—this step is key for juicy, flavorful bites. Then, cut the steak into evenly sized cubes for consistent cooking. Season generously with salt and black pepper, as this simple seasoning will highlight the natural meaty flavors.
Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites
Heat a cast-iron skillet until it’s nice and hot. Add the seasoned steak cubes and sear them for 1 to 2 minutes on each side just until they achieve a beautiful golden brown crust. This quick sear locks in juices, keeping every bite tender and delightful.
Step 3: Make Garlic Butter
Lower the heat to medium and add butter along with the minced garlic directly to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds—or until the garlic becomes fragrant—and get ready to coat your steak bites in this rich, buttery magic.
Step 4: Combine Steak and Garlic Butter
Return the seared steak cubes into the skillet and toss them gently in the garlic butter mixture. Let them cook together for another 1 to 2 minutes so every bite soaks up all those wonderful flavors.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta Shells
While the steak is finishing up, boil a pot of salted water and cook the pasta shells according to the package directions until al dente—firm to the bite but cooked through. Drain and set aside, ready to embrace that creamy chipotle white cheddar sauce.
Step 6: Make the Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Cheese Sauce
In a separate saucepan, gently warm the heavy cream over medium heat. Add the finely chopped chipotle peppers in adobo to infuse the sauce with smoky heat. Stir in the shredded white cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt smoothly into a silky, dreamy sauce that perfectly complements the pasta.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Pour the creamy chipotle white cheddar sauce over the drained pasta shells, tossing to coat every shell thoroughly. This ensures each bite is bursting with cheesy, smoky goodness.
Step 8: Serve the Dish
Plate the creamy chipotle-coated pasta and top it generously with your garlic butter steak bites. Finish with a sprinkling of fresh parsley for a beautiful burst of color and freshness.
How to Serve Juicy Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice that adds a bright, herbal contrast to the richness of the steak and cheese sauce. If you want to get creative, a little squeeze of fresh lime juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a fun zing that wakes up the dish.
Side Dishes
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli are perfect for adding color, crunch, and nutrition to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the steak bites atop the pasta with a drizzle of extra garlic butter from the skillet for a glossy finish. Or bundle the pasta and steak bites in a deep bowl with a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top, then give it a quick broil for a bubbly, golden crust. Presentation can turn this comforting meal into an elegant dinner surprise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover steak bites and creamy chipotle white cheddar shells into airtight containers and refrigerate. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making for a fantastic next-day meal that tastes just as delicious.
Freezing
You can freeze both the steak bites and the cheesy pasta separately for best texture. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Warm the steak bites in a skillet over medium heat to retain their juiciness, and gently reheat the creamy pasta in a saucepan on low, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from breaking. Adding a splash of milk or cream can bring some of the creaminess back to life.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! Sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack are great alternatives. If you love spice, you could even add a pepper jack for extra heat. Just pick a cheese that melts smoothly to keep that creamy texture.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
Yes! You can substitute butter with olive oil and use half-and-half instead of heavy cream to reduce the fat content. Also, choose leaner cuts of steak like filet mignon for a lighter protein option.
How spicy is the chipotle in this dish?
The chipotle peppers add a smoky, medium heat that’s bold but generally not overwhelming. You can adjust the number of chipotle peppers to fit your heat tolerance or leave them out for a milder taste.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a dinner party?
Definitely! You can prep the steak and pasta separately, and make the cheese sauce just before serving. Reheat and combine everything right before your guests arrive to keep the flavors fresh and vibrant.
What pasta shapes work best besides shells?
While pasta shells are perfect for holding the sauce, other shapes like elbow macaroni, cavatappi, or penne also work beautifully and offer their own exciting texture variations.
Final Thoughts
This Juicy Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells Recipe is pure comfort food at its finest—easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough to wow friends and family. The harmony of steak, garlic butter, and smoky cheese sauce is utterly irresistible. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it a beloved staple in your kitchen just like I have.
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Juicy Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A mouthwatering recipe featuring juicy garlic butter steak bites paired with creamy chipotle white cheddar shells. Tender steak cubes are seared in a cast-iron skillet with fragrant garlic butter, while pasta shells are coated in a smoky, spicy chipotle cheddar sauce for a deliciously comforting meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Steak Bites
- 1 lb Sirloin or Ribeye Steak (For a leaner option, consider filet mignon.)
- 2 tbsp Butter (Can substitute with olive oil for a lighter flavor.)
- 3 Cloves Garlic, minced (Garlic powder can be used as an alternative.)
- 1 tsp Salt (Adjust based on taste preference.)
- 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (White pepper can be used for a milder flavor.)
Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells
- 2 Chipotle Peppers in Adobo, finely chopped (Adjust amount for spice level.)
- 1 cup White Cheddar Cheese, shredded (Sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack can be substituted.)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream (Half-and-half is a lighter alternative.)
- 8 oz Pasta Shells (Any pasta shape can work.)
- 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped (Can be omitted if desired.)
Instructions
- Prepare the steak: Pat the steak dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture. Cut the steak into bite-sized cubes and season evenly with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
- Sear the steak bites: Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak cubes and sear for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms, locking in the juices.
- Sauté garlic in butter: Lower the heat to medium, add butter and minced garlic to the skillet, and sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Toss steak in garlic butter: Return the seared steak bites to the skillet, toss them in the garlic butter mixture, and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to infuse flavors thoroughly.
- Cook the pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, add the pasta shells, and cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- Make the chipotle cheddar sauce: In a separate saucepan, gently warm the heavy cream over medium heat. Stir in the chopped chipotle peppers and shredded white cheddar cheese until the cheese melts smoothly, creating a creamy, spicy sauce.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Toss the drained pasta shells with the creamy chipotle white cheddar sauce, ensuring each shell is evenly coated with the rich sauce.
- Serve: Plate the creamy chipotle white cheddar shells and top with the juicy garlic butter steak bites. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Enjoy!
Notes
- If preferred, substitute filet mignon for a leaner steak option.
- Butter can be replaced with olive oil for a lighter taste.
- Adjust chipotle peppers quantity for desired spice level.
- Use garlic powder if fresh garlic is unavailable.
- Any pasta shape can replace shells based on preference.
- Fresh parsley garnish is optional but adds brightness.
