Craving a restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to whip up at home? These Creamy Paprika Steak Shells combine tender steak bites, al dente pasta, and a rich, smoky Parmesan sauce for a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe delivers bold flavors and velvety textures in every bite. Let’s dive into this soul-warming dish!

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 12 oz shell pasta
• 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 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ tsp smoked paprika (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup beef broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the shell pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak

1. Pat the steak bites dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add steak bites and sear for 2–3 minutes per side, until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

1. Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet.
2. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant (avoid browning).

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Pour in heavy cream and beef broth, stirring to combine.
2. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
3. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked pasta and steak bites to the skillet.
2. Toss gently to coat everything evenly in the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Transfer to serving plates or bowls.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant, fresh touch.
3. Serve hot and savor the rich, comforting flavors!

Tips for Success

• Steak Choice: Sirloin or ribeye delivers tender, flavorful results. For budget-friendly options, try flank or skirt steak, sliced thinly against the grain.
• Pasta Swap: Substitute shell pasta with penne, fusilli, or any short pasta shape you love.
• Add Veggies: Boost nutrition by tossing in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers before adding the sauce.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.
• Freezing: Freeze the sauce and steak separately for up to 3 months. Avoid freezing the pasta to prevent a mushy texture when thawed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Paprika Steak Shells recipe is the ultimate comfort food, blending smoky paprika, creamy Parmesan sauce, and juicy steak bites with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s quick enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for guests. The smoky depth and velvety sauce make every bite a delight, satisfying both your cravings and your soul. 🔥

Try this hearty, flavor-packed dish tonight and let it become your new go-to for cozy dinners! Have a twist on this recipe? Share your ideas in the comments below!

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Originally published on 25insurance.com on August 25, 2025.