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Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet Recipe

Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet Recipe
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★★★★★

5.1 from 26 reviews

This Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet is a flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender, spicy steak cubes paired with creamy, cheesy pasta shells infused with garlic and a hint of paprika. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cajun 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)

For the 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

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the medium pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Steak Bites: Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels. Season them evenly with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  3. Sauté the Steak: Add the steak cubes in a single layer and sear without moving for 2-3 minutes to develop a crust. Stir and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until cooked to your preferred doneness. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and the minced garlic to the skillet, tossing to coat the steak and infuse flavor. Remove the steak from the skillet and keep warm.
  4. Make the Cheesy Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in 1 cup heavy cream, bring it to a gentle simmer while stirring continually.
  5. Add the Cheeses and Seasoning: Gradually stir in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese and ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add ½ teaspoon paprika and ½ teaspoon black pepper, stirring to combine.
  6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta shells to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat each shell in the creamy mixture.
  7. Incorporate Steak Bites: Return the cooked Cajun steak bites to the skillet, mixing them evenly with the cheesy garlic shells to warm through.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately for a comforting, hearty meal.

Notes

  • Use sirloin steak for a leaner option or ribeye for more marbling and flavor.
  • Adjust Cajun seasoning amount based on your spice preference.
  • Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but the texture will be less rich.
  • Fresh garlic provides the best flavor; avoid pre-minced garlic in jars.
  • To save time, cook the pasta shells while preparing the steak bites concurrently.
  • Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid drying out the steak.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://spatulaqueen.com/cajun-steak-bites-and-cheesy-garlic-shells-skillet-recipe/