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Delicious garlic butter steak bites and creamy loaded cheddar shells are showcased in this mouthwatering featured image.

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
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
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.