Description
Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet is a delightful one-pan dish that delivers bold flavors and creamy comfort in every bite. This recipe features tender beef steak bites, seasoned with aromatic Cajun spices, paired with velvety pasta shells enveloped in a rich cheese sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish is quick to prepare and easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or pasta types. Your family and friends will rave about this hearty meal that effortlessly combines spice and creaminess.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ lbs sirloin steak or ribeye, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 8 oz medium pasta shells
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Boil pasta shells in salted water until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining.
- Season steak cubes with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, sear steak bites in olive oil for 2–3 minutes per side. Add butter and garlic in the last minute.
- Lower the heat and add butter and minced garlic to the skillet; sauté for one minute.
- Pour in heavy cream to deglaze the pan; simmer gently.
- Stir in cheddar, Parmesan, paprika, black pepper, and salt until melted.
- Mix in the cooked pasta shells; add reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Top with seared steak bites; serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 400g)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 115mg