Description
A bold and comforting one-skillet meal featuring juicy Cajun-seasoned steak bites and creamy, cheesy garlic pasta shells. It’s a quick, satisfying dinner that’s perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups shell pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (preferably freshly grated)
- Optional: 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Pat the steak cubes dry with a paper towel.
- Toss the steak with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for 10–15 minutes.
- Cook shell pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
- In a hot skillet over medium-high heat, sear steak cubes in batches for 2–3 minutes per side. Set aside.
- Lower heat to medium and add butter to the skillet.
- Sauté minced garlic in butter for 1–2 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually whisk in shredded cheddar until smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta shells to the cheese sauce and stir to coat. Use pasta water to loosen if needed.
- Return steak bites to the skillet and combine.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes