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Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet Recipe

Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet Recipe
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★★★★★

5 from 22 reviews

This Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet combines tender, flavorful Cajun-seasoned steak bites with creamy, cheesy garlic pasta shells for a hearty and indulgent one-pan meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Steak Bites:

  • 1 ½ lbs sirloin steak or ribeye, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Cheesy Garlic Shells:

  • 8 oz medium pasta shells
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the medium pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Season the Steak Bites: In a bowl, toss the bite-sized steak cubes with the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper to evenly coat.
  3. Cook the Steak Bites: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak bites and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preferred level of doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  5. Create the Cheesy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan until melted and smooth, forming a rich cheese sauce.
  6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta shells into the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss gently to coat all the pasta evenly with the sauce.
  7. Add Steak Bites Back: Return the cooked Cajun steak bites to the skillet and mix them in with the cheesy garlic shells to combine flavors.
  8. Finish and Garnish: Stir in 2 tablespoons unsalted butter for added richness. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, add more Cajun seasoning according to your taste.
  • Use heavy cream to ensure a rich and creamy sauce; substituting with milk may result in a thinner sauce.
  • Rest the steak bites for a few minutes after cooking to retain juiciness.
  • You can substitute sharp cheddar with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder cheese flavor.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun steak bites, cheesy garlic shells, skillet recipe, creamy pasta, quick dinner, one-pan meal, comfort food, Cajun seasoning

Find it online: https://zestywithzane.com/cajun-steak-bites-and-cheesy-garlic-shells-skillet-recipe/