How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan

Craving a restaurant-quality meal at home? If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea, I’ve got just the thing for you! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for how to make juicy steak bites with garlic butter & Parmesan. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen.

Imagine tender, perfectly seared steak bites tossed in rich garlic butter, served alongside creamy Parmesan pasta. It’s an indulgent treat that feels special yet comes together in under 30 minutes! Trust me; this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip up this delightful meal in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic butter and Parmesan creates a taste sensation that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the steak bites and creamy pasta – it’s a dinner that pleases all palates!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the steak bites in advance and simply reheat them before serving. Leftovers are just as tasty!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You’ll find everything you need right at your local grocery store. These ingredients come together beautifully to create an unforgettable meal.

• 1 ½ lbs steak (sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• 8 oz small pasta shells
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• ½ cup reserved pasta water (if needed to thin the sauce)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to adapt it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or tofu instead of steak for a different flavor while keeping the same delicious garlic butter sauce.
• Change up the pasta: Try using whole wheat pasta or gluten-free options like chickpea or lentil pasta for a healthier twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to add color and nutrition to your dish.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some diced jalapeños for an extra kick!

How to Make How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Cooking your pasta shells according to package instructions until they are al dente is important because it helps them hold their shape when mixed with the sauce. Don’t forget to reserve half a cup of that starchy pasta water before draining!

Step 2: Prepare the Steak Bites

While the pasta cooks, pat your steak pieces dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because removing excess moisture allows for better browning during searing. Season them generously with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if you like some heat.

Step 3: Sear the Steak

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Add the seasoned steak bites in a single layer and sear them for about two minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned. This quick cooking time ensures they stay juicy and tender. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter

Lower the heat to medium and add unsalted butter along with the minced garlic back into the same skillet. Stirring for about thirty seconds will release those wonderful aromatic flavors into the pan. Return those lovely steak bites back into the pan and toss them well to coat with that fragrant garlic butter.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In another pan, melt more butter over medium heat before adding minced garlic again. Sautéing until fragrant sets up a flavorful base for your sauce! Pour in heavy cream next; bringing it gently to a simmer is key – it thickens beautifully as it cooks. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with seasoning until smooth.

Step 6: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add those drained pasta shells right into your creamy sauce mixture, tossing well so every piece gets coated evenly. If it seems too thick, use some of that reserved pasta water to adjust consistency as needed.

Step 7: Serve

Plate those creamy Parmesan shells alongside your stunning garlic butter steak bites or mix them together for an enticing blend of flavors! Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired – presentation matters too!

Enjoy this delightful meal with loved ones; I promise they will be impressed!

Pro Tips for Making How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan

Cooking steak bites can seem intimidating, but with a few simple tips, you’ll be on your way to a perfectly juicy meal!

• Choose the Right Cut: Selecting cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip ensures tenderness and flavor. These cuts have enough marbling to remain juicy when seared.
• Pat Dry Before Cooking: Removing excess moisture from the steak bites helps achieve that beautiful crust. A good sear locks in flavors and gives you that restaurant-quality finish.
• Do Not Crowd the Pan: Searing too many pieces at once can lower the pan’s temperature. This prevents proper browning; make sure to cook in batches if necessary.
• Rest the Steak After Cooking: Allowing the steak bites to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets the juices redistribute. This results in tender, juicy bites that are bursting with flavor.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your creamy Parmesan sauce is too thick, don’t hesitate to add reserved pasta water gradually. This will help achieve the perfect creamy texture without sacrificing flavor.

How to Serve How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan

Serving this dish is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors! Here are some ideas on how to present your delicious steak bites and creamy pasta.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
• Grated Parmesan: A sprinkling of extra Parmesan on top enhances the cheesy goodness while providing an appealing visual touch.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding a dash of red pepper flakes as a garnish can bring an exciting kick to each bite.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread makes for an excellent accompaniment. The buttery garlic flavor complements both the steak and pasta beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds a healthy touch and balances out the richness of your main dish.
• Caesar Salad (Dairy-Free Option): Crisp romaine lettuce topped with a dairy-free dressing offers a refreshing contrast to your savory steak bites.
• Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with lemon juice provides a bright and zesty side that pairs wonderfully with both the steak and creamy pasta.

With these pro tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your culinary skills! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Meal prepping this recipe is a fantastic idea, as it not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can easily store the components separately or together, making it a versatile option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor and quality.
• Avoid storing the pasta and steak bites mixed together to maintain the texture of each component.

Freezing

• You can freeze the steak bites and creamy Parmesan sauce separately.
• For best results, let them cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The steak bites will keep well for up to 2 months; the sauce can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating

• To reheat steak bites, place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
• For the creamy Parmesan sauce, gently reheat on low heat, stirring frequently. Add reserved pasta water as necessary to reach desired consistency.
• If reheating both together, do so gently to avoid drying out the steak.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan without losing flavor?

To ensure your steak bites remain juicy, avoid overcrowding the pan during searing, which can lead to steaming. Letting them rest after cooking allows juices to redistribute. When reheating, do it gently on low heat.

Can I customize the pasta used in How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out small pasta shells for your favorite type of pasta—penne or fettuccine work beautifully as well. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

What is the best way to season steak for juicy steak bites?

A simple seasoning of salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and optional red pepper flakes enhances flavor while keeping it quick and easy. Fresh herbs like parsley add brightness too!

Is heavy cream necessary for the creamy Parmesan sauce?

While heavy cream creates a rich texture, you can substitute with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative if preferred. Just keep an eye on thickness and adjust with reserved pasta water as needed.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy and deliciousness to your dinner table! The combination of juicy steak bites and creamy Parmesan pasta is truly special—perfect for impressing family or guests or simply treating yourself after a long day. Enjoy making these delightful bites in your kitchen, and don’t hesitate to share your experience! Happy cooking!