Creamy Paprika Steak Pasta Shells
Creamy Paprika Steak Pasta Shells is a delightful dish that combines tender steak with rich, creamy sauce and pasta. This recipe brings together flavors that will excite your taste buds and is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to enjoy a comforting meal that is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great for several reasons. First, it is quick and simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy days. Second, the combination of steak and creamy sauce is always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, with its rich flavor and hearty ingredients, this dish will leave everyone feeling full and happy. Lastly, it’s a versatile meal that can easily be customized according to your family’s tastes!
How to Make Creamy Paprika Steak Pasta Shells
Making Creamy Paprika Steak Pasta Shells is straightforward. Follow these easy steps to create a delicious dish that you and your family will love.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta shells
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the shell pasta in salted water following the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Steak: Season steak pieces with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Sear the Meat: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Lower the heat to medium. Melt butter in the same skillet and sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth. Stir well and simmer for 3–4 minutes, until the sauce begins to thicken.
- Cheesy Finish: Stir in Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine: Return the pasta and steak to the skillet. Toss to coat everything evenly with the sauce.
- Serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot.
How to Serve Creamy Paprika Steak Pasta Shells
Serve Creamy Paprika Steak Pasta Shells hot, directly from the skillet. You can add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top for more flavor. Pair it with a simple salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
How to Store Creamy Paprika Steak Pasta Shells
To store any leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for about 3 days. When reheating, add a little extra cream or broth to help restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Tips to Make Creamy Paprika Steak Pasta Shells
- Use a good quality steak for the best flavor.
- Make sure not to overcook the steak to keep it tender.
- Adjust the seasoning to your liking, adding more paprika for extra smokiness.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Variation
You can easily add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to this dish for extra nutrition and color. Just sauté them before adding the garlic in the sauce step.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken instead of steak?
Yes, you can substitute steak with chicken. Just make sure to cook the chicken thoroughly.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta shells to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
3. Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Just combine them before serving and heat everything through.
Enjoy your delicious meal with Creamy Paprika Steak Pasta Shells, and watch how it becomes a favorite in your household!
