GARLIC BUTTER STEAK BITES, WOW!

I’ll never forget the first time I tried steak bites at a local pub – the explosion of garlicky, buttery flavor was simply unforgettable. It was one of those meals that you just HAD to try and recreate at home! And what better side to pair it with than creamy, cheesy pasta? That’s how my obsession with Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Shells! began. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Shells! you’ll ever make!

Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Shells: A Match Made in Heaven

Okay, friends, let’s talk comfort food elevated. We’re not just making dinner tonight; we’re creating an experience. Imagine tender, juicy steak bites, perfectly seared and swimming in a luscious garlic butter sauce. Now picture that served alongside a bowl of ridiculously cheesy, loaded cheddar shells – we’re talking crispy bacon, fresh chives, and a whole lotta love. Are you drooling yet? I am!

This recipe is surprisingly easy, even for beginner cooks. I’ll break it down into simple steps, give you all my insider tips, and make sure you feel like a culinary rockstar by the end of it. Trust me, once you taste this, it’ll become a regular in your dinner rotation.

Let’s Get Cooking: Garlic Butter Steak Bites

First up: the star of the show, those irresistible garlic butter steak bites. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Steak Bites

• 1.5 lbs Sirloin Steak (cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 4 tbsp Butter (divided)
• 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 tsp Dried Thyme
• 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika
• 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for a kick!)
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions: The Perfect Sear

1. Prep the Steak: Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear! Season generously with salt, pepper, thyme, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Don’t be shy with the seasoning – it’s what gives the steak bites their amazing flavor.
2. Heat it Up: In a large cast-iron skillet (or a heavy-bottomed skillet), heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. You want the skillet to be screaming hot before adding the steak.
3. Sear in Batches: This is super important! Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Sear the steak bites in batches, making sure they have enough space to brown properly. Overcrowding will lower the temperature and result in steamed, not seared, steak. Sear for about 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned.
4. Garlic Butter Magic: Once all the steak bites are seared, remove them from the skillet and set aside. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet, along with the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic!).
5. Combine and Simmer: Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce. Simmer for another 1-2 minutes, just until heated through and coated in that glorious sauce.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately alongside your Loaded Cheddar Shells!

Pro Tips for Steak Bite Success

• Choosing the Right Steak: Sirloin is my go-to for steak bites because it’s tender and flavorful without being too expensive. Ribeye or New York strip would also work beautifully.
• Don’t Overcook: The key to tender steak bites is to avoid overcooking them. They should still be slightly pink in the center. Remember, they’ll continue to cook a little even after you remove them from the heat.
• Get a Good Sear: The sear is where all the flavor is! Make sure your skillet is hot enough and don’t overcrowd it. Patience is key!
• Adjust the Garlic: I love garlic, but you can adjust the amount to your liking. If you’re not a huge fan, start with 2 cloves and add more if needed.
• Spice it Up: Feel free to experiment with different spices! A pinch of chili powder or a dash of Worcestershire sauce can add extra depth of flavor.

If you’re looking for another meal with steak, try this amazing Grilled Steak & Gorgonzola Salad with Balsamic Glaze. The combination of the steak and balsamic glaze is truly wonderful.

Next Up: Loaded Cheddar Shells to Steal the Show

Now, let’s move on to the cheesy, bacony goodness that is our Loaded Cheddar Shells. Get ready for some serious comfort food indulgence!

Ingredients for Loaded Cheddar Shells

• 1 lb Medium Shell Pasta
• 6 tbsp Butter
• 6 tbsp All-Purpose Flour
• 3 cups Milk
• 4 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese (sharp or medium, your choice!)
• 1/2 cup Sour Cream
• 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1/4 tsp Paprika
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• 6 slices Bacon (cooked and crumbled)
• 1/4 cup Fresh Chives (chopped, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions: Cheesy Perfection

1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the shell pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
2. Make the Roux: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, until smooth and golden. This is called a roux, and it’s the base for our cheesy sauce.
3. Whisk in the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, making sure to incorporate each addition before adding more. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine and Load: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat. Stir in about half of the crumbled bacon.
6. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the Loaded Cheddar Shells to a serving dish and top with the remaining crumbled bacon and chopped chives. Serve immediately alongside the Garlic Butter Steak Bites!

Tips for the Best Cheesy Shells Ever

• Cheese Matters: Use a good quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor. I prefer sharp cheddar, but medium cheddar also works well. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains cellulose that can prevent it from melting smoothly.
• Don’t Burn the Roux: Keep a close eye on the roux and make sure it doesn’t burn. If it starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat.
• Low and Slow: When adding the cheese, reduce the heat to low to prevent the sauce from becoming grainy. Stir constantly until the cheese is melted and smooth.
• Get Creative with Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings to your Loaded Cheddar Shells! Diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or a sprinkle of breadcrumbs would all be delicious.
• Spice it Up: A dash of hot sauce can add extra depth of flavor.

If you love pasta, you should definitely try HONEY PEPPER CHICKEN PASTA. It is sweet, spicy, and so yummy.

Variations and Additions: Make it Your Own!

The beauty of this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own signature dish. Here are a few ideas:

• Steak Bite Variations: Try using different cuts of steak, such as ribeye or New York strip. You could also add mushrooms or onions to the garlic butter sauce.
• Cheddar Shells Variations: Use different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack. You could also add vegetables, such as broccoli, peas, or carrots.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce or the cheese sauce for a little kick.
• Add Some Veggies: Sauté some mushrooms and onions and add them to the steak bites or the cheddar shells.
• Make it Lighter: Use skim milk and reduced-fat cheese to lighten up the cheddar shells.

If you like a creamy chicken dish, you should try BUTTER CHICKEN. It is a favorite with my family and friends!

Serving Suggestions: The Perfect Pairing

Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Shells are a complete meal on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas:

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts would be a healthy and delicious addition.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing would provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the steak bites and cheddar shells.
• Garlic Bread: Because you can never have too much garlic!

Storing and Reheating: Deliciousness for Days

If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the steak bites and cheddar shells separately in the microwave or oven. Add a splash of milk to the cheddar shells when reheating to prevent them from drying out. I also suggest trying my Spicy Chicken Rigatoni for another great left-over meal!

You might also like my Instant Pot Chuck Roast with Gravy which is a great way to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort.

Conclusion: A Culinary Triumph Awaits!

So there you have it, friends! My ultimate recipe for Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Shells. I know it seems like a lot, but trust me, each step is simple and straightforward. And the end result? A flavor explosion that will leave you and your loved ones wanting more. Don’t be afraid to get creative, experiment with different flavors, and make this recipe your own. I promise you’ll be amazed at what you can create in your own kitchen. Now go forth and cook with confidence – you’ve got this!

Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Loaded Cheddar Shells

Indulge in tender, juicy garlic butter steak bites paired with creamy, loaded cheddar shells for the ultimate comfort food experience. This surprisingly easy recipe combines perfectly seared steak with a rich garlic butter sauce and cheesy, bacony pasta, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 800

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 lbs Sirloin Steak cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 tbsp Butter divided
• 4 cloves Garlic minced
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 tsp Dried Thyme
• 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika
• 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes optional
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley chopped, for garnish
• 1 lb Medium Shell Pasta
• 6 tbsp Butter
• 6 tbsp All-Purpose Flour
• 3 cups Milk
• 4 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese sharp or medium
• 1/2 cup Sour Cream
• 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1/4 tsp Paprika
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 6 slices Bacon cooked and crumbled
• 1/4 cup Fresh Chives chopped, for garnish

Equipment

• Large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed skillet
• paper towels
• Large saucepan
• whisk
• spatula
• measuring cups and spoons
• Serving dish
• Pasta pot
• colander

Method

 

1. **Garlic Butter Steak Bites:**
2. 1. Prep the Steak: Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, thyme, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. 2. Heat it Up: In a large cast-iron skillet (or a heavy-bottomed skillet), heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
4. 3. Sear in Batches: Sear the steak bites in batches, making sure they have enough space to brown properly. Sear for about 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned.
5. 4. Garlic Butter Magic: Once all the steak bites are seared, remove them from the skillet and set aside. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet, along with the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
6. 5. Combine and Simmer: Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce. Simmer for another 1-2 minutes, just until heated through and coated in that glorious sauce.
7. 6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Set aside.
8. **Loaded Cheddar Shells:**
9. 1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the shell pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
10. 2. Make the Roux: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, until smooth and golden.
11. 3. Whisk in the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, making sure to incorporate each addition before adding more. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
12. 4. Add the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
13. 5. Combine and Load: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat. Stir in about half of the crumbled bacon.
14. 6. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the Loaded Cheddar Shells to a serving dish and top with the remaining crumbled bacon and chopped chives. Serve immediately alongside the Garlic Butter Steak Bites!

Notes

For best results, use high-quality cheddar cheese and sear the steak bites in a hot skillet to achieve a flavorful crust. Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the steak. Adjust garlic and spice levels to your preference. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat separately to maintain texture.