Description: Rich, smoky, and melt-in-your-mouth tender—these Creamy Paprika Steak Shells are the ultimate comfort food. Tender steak bites are coated in a luscious, paprika-infused cream sauce and tossed with perfectly cooked shell pasta. Creamy, bold, and weeknight-ready! This dish brings together the heartiness of steak with the comforting warmth of pasta, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. It’s sophisticated enough for a dinner party and simple enough for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz shell pasta (medium or large-sized shells work well)
- 1 lb steak (sirloin, ribeye, or even flank steak), cut into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes)
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (adjust to your preference for smokiness)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup beef broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best)
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
- Optional: 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
Preparation:
This dish is all about layering flavors. Proper prep will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Step 1: Pasta Perfection
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the shell pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Al dente means the pasta should be firm to the bite, not mushy. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water can be added to the sauce later to help it cling to the pasta and create a creamier texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside. Toss it with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Steak Seasoning
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the steak. Pat the steak bites dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a good sear. In a bowl, toss the steak with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and smoked paprika. Ensure that each piece is evenly coated. The paprika will not only add flavor but also contribute to a beautiful color when the steak is seared.
Step 3: Searing the Steak
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet (preferably cast iron for even heat distribution) over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering and hot, carefully add the seasoned steak bites to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will cause the steak to steam instead of sear. Sear the steak for 2–3 minutes per side, until browned and slightly crusty on the outside, but still slightly pink inside. Remember, the steak will continue to cook in the sauce. Remove the seared steak from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Building the Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the same skillet, allowing it to melt. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make it bitter. If using white wine, now is the time to add it to the skillet. Deglaze the pan by scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine reduce for about a minute.
Step 5: Creamy Dreamy
Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes, until the sauce has slightly thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Cheesy Goodness
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Step 7: The Grand Finale
Add the cooked shell pasta and the seared steak back to the skillet. Toss everything together to ensure that the pasta and steak are evenly coated with the creamy paprika sauce. Cook for another minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 8: Serve
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of smoky paprika, tender steak, rich cream, and nutty Parmesan cheese creates a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and exciting.
- Quick and Easy: Despite its gourmet taste, this recipe is surprisingly quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pan Wonder: Everything comes together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe to your liking by adding different vegetables, cheeses, or spices.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends, perfect for gatherings and dinner parties.
- Elevated Comfort Food: It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent without being overly complicated or heavy.
- Textural Delight: From the perfectly cooked pasta shells to the tender seared steak and creamy sauce, every bite offers a delightful textural experience.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for a complete and balanced meal.
- A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
- Crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- A glass of dry red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, pairs well with the steak and creamy sauce.
Tips:
- Use High-Quality Steak: The quality of the steak will greatly impact the flavor of the dish. Choose a cut that is well-marbled for the best results.
- Don’t Overcook the Steak: Be careful not to overcook the steak when searing it, as it will continue to cook in the sauce.
- Adjust the Paprika: The amount of smoked paprika can be adjusted to your preference. If you like a more intense smoky flavor, add a little more.
- Freshly Grate the Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and has a more robust flavor than pre-grated cheese.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the dish, such as sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions. Sauté them in the skillet before adding the garlic.
- Make It Spicy: For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
- Make It Ahead: The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat the sauce and add the pasta and steak when ready to serve.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 650-750
- Protein: 45-55g
- Fat: 35-45g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
- Sodium: 400-600mg (depending on broth and seasoning)
Conclusion
Creamy Paprika Steak Shells is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s the perfect marriage of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or an impressive dish to serve guests, this recipe is sure to delight. The creamy, smoky sauce, tender steak, and perfectly cooked pasta combine to create a culinary masterpiece that you’ll want to make again and again. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to indulge in a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers:
- Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
- A: Absolutely! While shell pasta works well for capturing the creamy sauce, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes such as penne, farfalle (bow ties), or rotini. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente according to package directions.
- Q: Can I use a different cut of steak?
- A: Yes, you can use different cuts of steak depending on your preference and budget. Sirloin and ribeye are excellent choices, but you can also use flank steak, skirt steak, or even tenderloin. Just be sure to cut the steak into bite-sized pieces and sear it properly.
- Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
- A: Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian by replacing the steak with mushrooms or other vegetables. Sauté the mushrooms in the skillet until they are browned and tender, then proceed with the recipe as directed. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
- A: It’s a little tricky to make this completely dairy-free while maintaining the creamy texture. You could try using a plant-based cream alternative (like cashew cream or oat cream), but be aware that the flavor and texture may differ slightly. Nutritional yeast can be added for a cheesy flavor. Also, ensure you use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
- Q: How can I store leftovers?
- A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. The pasta may absorb some of the sauce as it sits, so adding a bit of liquid will help restore the creaminess.
