1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta shells until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. While pasta cooks, season steak bites with salt and pepper.

3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak in a single layer for 2–3 minutes per side, until browned. Remove and set aside.

4. Reduce heat to medium. In the same pan, melt butter and stir in garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Return steak to pan and toss in the garlic butter. Remove from heat.

5. In a saucepan over medium-low heat, warm the heavy cream. Gradually add Parmesan, stirring until smooth and melted. Add reserved pasta water to loosen if needed.

6. Stir the pasta into the cheese sauce until well coated.

7. Serve steak bites over creamy shells. Garnish with parsley if desired.