Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells

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Creamy, cheesy pasta meets juicy, seared steak in this comfort-packed dinner duo. Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells is that rare recipe that manages to be indulgent, simple, and weeknight-friendly all at once. Imagine rich cheddar-coated shells served alongside tender steak bites seared to perfection in a garlic butter glaze.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or looking to impress guests, this recipe nails that cozy restaurant-style vibe at home. Each bite combines creamy, savory, and bold flavors—perfect for when you want dinner to feel like a warm hug with just enough edge.

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What Kind of Steak Should I Use?

You don’t need an expensive cut to make great steak bites. Sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip are all excellent choices—they cook fast, stay tender, and absorb the garlicky butter like a dream. Just make sure to cut the meat into uniform cubes to help it cook evenly.

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Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells

Steak Bites

• Sirloin or Ribeye Steak: Provides the meaty, juicy bite that sears beautifully in a hot pan.
• Garlic Cloves: Infuses the butter with deep flavor.
• Unsalted Butter: For richness and that classic steakhouse finish.
• Olive Oil: Helps with even browning and prevents the butter from burning.
• Salt & Pepper: Basic, but essential seasoning.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): Adds color and a fresh note.

Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells

• Medium Pasta Shells: Perfect for catching all that velvety cheese sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Creates the rich alfredo base.
• Cream Cheese: Adds thickness and a slight tang.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: The star of the sauce—bold and melty.
• Parmesan Cheese: For nutty, salty depth.
• Garlic Powder: Boosts flavor without overpowering.
• Paprika: Adds warmth and slight smokiness.
• Salt & Pepper: To balance and enhance the sauce.

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How To Make the Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells

Step 1: Sear the Steak Bites

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil. Once hot, add your seasoned steak cubes in a single layer. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your liking. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add butter along with minced garlic. Stir constantly for about 1 minute, making sure the garlic doesn’t burn. Return the steak bites to the pan, toss to coat them well in the garlic butter, and turn off the heat.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta Shells

While the steak cooks, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Cheddar Alfredo Sauce

In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream and cream cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened. Add in garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Then stir in shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese, allowing them to melt into a luscious sauce.

Step 5: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Add your cooked shells into the cheese sauce and gently fold everything together. The sauce should coat the shells beautifully. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Plate and Serve

Spoon the cheddar Alfredo shells onto a plate and top with generous helpings of garlic butter steak bites. Garnish with chopped parsley and an optional pinch of paprika for color.

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How to Serve and Store This Dish

Serve the Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells immediately for the best flavor and texture. A sprinkle of extra cheddar or a drizzle of garlic butter right before serving takes it over the top.

For storing leftovers, keep the steak and shells separate in airtight containers. They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of cream or water to revive the sauce’s creaminess.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While shells are great for holding sauce, elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini also work beautifully.

What’s the best way to reheat steak bites?

Use a skillet over medium heat to rewarm them quickly. Avoid the microwave as it can make the steak tough.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the cheese sauce and cook the steak bites ahead. Reheat and combine right before serving to keep textures and flavors fresh.

Is it okay to freeze leftovers?

You can freeze the pasta, though the texture may change slightly. The steak is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated rather than frozen.

Can I make it spicier?

Sure! Add crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter or a pinch of cayenne to the cheese sauce for a kick.

What’s a good side dish for this meal?

A simple green salad, roasted broccoli, or garlic bread makes the perfect pairing.

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Want More Dinner Ideas?

If you’re into bold, flavor-packed meals like this one, you’ll love these other favorites:

• One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
• Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef
• Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce
• Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add a splash of hot sauce? Did you use a different cheese blend?

I love seeing how you personalize these recipes. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter. You can also check out more daily recipe inspiration on my Pinterest – Life with Jam.

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