Description

This Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet is a comforting one-pan meal combining tender, spicy steak bites with creamy, flavorful garlic cheese pasta shells. The juicy steak cubes seasoned with Cajun spices pair perfectly with the rich cheddar and Parmesan sauce, creating a satisfying dish that’s quick to prepare and ideal for weeknight dinners or impressing guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Steak Bites

1 ½ lbs sirloin steak or ribeye, cut into bite-sized cubes
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cheesy Garlic Shells

8 oz medium pasta shells
2 tbsp unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp black pepper
Salt, to taste
¼ cup reserved pasta water (optional)

Instructions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes depending on the package instructions. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. Set pasta aside.
Prepare the steak bites: Pat the steak cubes dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure proper searing. Toss the steak with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper evenly to coat all pieces.
Sear the steak: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat until shimmering. Add the steak bites in batches to avoid overcrowding, searing each side for 2-3 minutes until browned and cooked to medium-rare or desired doneness. In the final minute of cooking each batch, add butter and minced garlic to the pan and toss the steak bites to coat in the flavorful butter garlic mixture. Remove steak bites from the pan and set aside.
Sauté garlic for sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
Create the cheese sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to deglaze the pan and incorporate the flavorful browned bits. Let the cream simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
Add cheeses and seasoning: Stir in shredded sharp cheddar, grated Parmesan, paprika, black pepper, and salt to taste. Continue stirring until the cheeses melt completely and the sauce becomes thick and creamy.
Combine pasta and sauce: Toss the cooked pasta shells into the cheese sauce, coating them evenly. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs loosening for a creamier consistency.
Finish and serve: Top the cheesy garlic shells with the seared Cajun steak bites. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

Patting the steak dry is essential for a good sear and caramelized crust.
Adjust Cajun seasoning to your spice preference.
Use fresh garlic for the best aroma and flavor.
If you prefer, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce but expect a less rich texture.
Reserve pasta water helps to adjust the sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
This dish can be made with gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently to prevent sauce separation.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Searing and sautéing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/4 of recipe)
Calories: 620 kcal
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 520 mg
Fat: 40 g
Saturated Fat: 22 g
Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
Trans Fat: 0.3 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 40 g
Cholesterol: 130 mg

Keywords: Cajun steak bites, cheesy garlic shells, skillet dinner, one-pan meal, steak pasta, creamy cheese sauce, quick dinner, Cajun seasoning