Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells

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Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells is the kind of dish that instantly steals the spotlight. It’s bold, rich, and indulgent — the sizzling aroma of seared steak tossed in garlic butter is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Pair that with a creamy, smoky, chipotle-laced white cheddar shell pasta, and you’ve got a meal that tastes like it came straight from a gourmet bistro — but it’s totally doable at home.

This recipe is perfect for those nights when you crave something hearty and comforting, but also a little luxurious. The steak bites are quick to cook and incredibly flavorful, while the creamy shells balance the heat with velvety cheese and just the right touch of spice. Whether you’re impressing guests, spoiling yourself after a long day, or whipping up an elevated weeknight dinner — this combo is a guaranteed win.

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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells

• Two irresistible comfort foods in one: Tender, juicy steak and cheesy, smoky pasta come together in perfect harmony.
• Quick but indulgent: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish brings restaurant-level flavor without the long prep time.
• Flexible for any occasion: Make it as a romantic dinner, a hearty family meal, or a show-stopping dish for guests.
• The flavors are unforgettable: The garlic butter melts into the steak for rich, savory notes, while the chipotle adds depth and warmth to the cheese sauce.
• Perfectly balanced: Creamy, spicy, savory, and slightly smoky — it hits every flavor note you want.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment, and the Importance of Each Tool)

Before diving into the cooking, getting your tools and workspace ready can make the whole process smoother — and much faster. This dish comes together quickly, so having everything prepped beforehand is essential.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy-Bottomed Pan: For achieving that perfect sear on the steak bites. Cast iron holds heat well and gives the steak a delicious crust.
• Medium Saucepan: This is where the creamy chipotle white cheddar shells come to life. A nonstick or stainless steel saucepan works well to prevent sticking and allow even heating.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: You’ll need it for trimming and cubing the steak and mincing the garlic with precision.
• Cutting Board: One large cutting board for prepping the meat and vegetables separately — always keep meat and produce prep apart for safety.
• Mixing Spoon or Spatula: A wooden spoon or silicone spatula helps stir the sauce gently without scratching your cookware.
• Tongs: Essential for flipping the steak bites evenly and quickly without piercing them (which would cause them to lose juices).
• Colander: To drain the pasta shells once they’re perfectly al dente.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision matters, especially for the cheese sauce and chipotle balance.

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Preparation Tips

• Bring steak to room temperature: Take the steak out of the fridge 20–30 minutes before cooking to ensure even searing.
• Pat the steak dry: Moisture is the enemy of a good sear — pat the cubes dry with paper towels before seasoning.
• Grate your cheese fresh: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Freshly shredded white cheddar melts creamier and tastes sharper.
• Adjust chipotle to your taste: Chipotle peppers in adobo can be spicy. Start with a small amount, then taste and adjust based on your spice preference.
• Boil pasta right before making the sauce: Hot, freshly cooked pasta helps bind the creamy cheese sauce better.
• Use residual steak juices: Don’t clean the skillet after cooking steak — that garlicky, buttery fond adds incredible flavor to anything you finish in the pan (or serve on the side).

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Ingredients for Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells

This recipe brings together simple, flavorful ingredients to create a restaurant-quality dish at home. Below is everything you’ll need for both components — the steak bites and the creamy chipotle shells.

For the Garlic Butter Steak Bites:

• 1 ½ pounds sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

For the Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells:

• 8 ounces medium pasta shells
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (warmed slightly)
• 1 ½ cups white cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo, minced (start with 1 if you prefer less heat)
• 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt, to taste

Optional Add-ins & Garnishes:

• Extra shredded cheddar for topping
• A squeeze of lime over the steak for brightness
• Fresh cilantro or green onions for added color

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Step 1: Prep the Steak and Ingredients

Start by trimming any excess fat from your steak and cutting it into even bite-sized cubes. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a perfect sear. Season the cubes generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mince the garlic, shred your white cheddar, and warm the milk slightly for the cheese sauce. Chop chipotle peppers and set aside your mise en place.

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Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells until al dente according to package instructions (usually about 8–9 minutes). Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

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Step 3: Sear the Steak Bites

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a cast iron skillet over high heat. Once hot and shimmering, add the steak bites in a single layer without crowding the pan (cook in batches if needed). Sear for 1–2 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.

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Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter

Reduce heat to medium and in the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Stir constantly for 30–45 seconds until the garlic is fragrant and golden, not browned. Return the steak bites to the pan and toss to coat them in the garlic butter. Turn off the heat and let them rest in the pan.

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Step 5: Prepare the Chipotle White Cheddar Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the warm milk and continue stirring until the mixture thickens — about 3–4 minutes.

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Step 6: Add the Cheese and Chipotle

Lower the heat and add the shredded white cheddar, stirring until smooth and fully melted. Mix in the minced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Taste and adjust spice level if needed.

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Step 7: Combine the Shells and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta shells to the cheese sauce, stirring gently until evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.

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Step 8: Plate and Serve

Spoon a generous portion of creamy chipotle white cheddar shells onto a plate or shallow bowl. Top with garlic butter steak bites and drizzle any remaining butter from the skillet over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of extra cheese, or a squeeze of lime if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Notes

• Choose the Right Cut of Steak: Sirloin and ribeye are both excellent for steak bites because they’re tender and flavorful. If using a leaner cut like strip steak, avoid overcooking.
• Control the Spice: Chipotle peppers can vary in heat level. Start small and taste before adding more — you can always add heat, but you can’t remove it.
• Freshly Grated Cheese = Creamier Sauce: Always grate your own cheese for smooth, creamy results. Pre-shredded varieties often contain starches that can make your sauce gritty.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcrowding the Pan: When searing steak bites, crowding the skillet will cause them to steam instead of brown. Always cook in batches if necessary.
• Cooking Steak Too Long: These bites cook fast! Overcooking will make them tough. Aim for medium-rare to medium and let them rest in the pan with the garlic butter.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic burns quickly, especially in butter. Keep the heat at medium and stir constantly when making the garlic butter.
• Adding Cheese Too Soon: Don’t add cheese to boiling milk — it may cause separation. Wait until the roux thickens and the heat is low for smooth melting.
• Forgetting to Taste as You Go: Especially with spice and salt, taste your sauce before combining it with the pasta. It’s easier to fix flavor before everything is mixed.
• Using Cold Milk in the Sauce: Warm the milk slightly to help the roux blend more smoothly and prevent lumps.
• Not Reserving Pasta Water: That starchy pasta water is a lifesaver if your cheese sauce thickens too much.
• Skipping Rest Time for Steak: Let the steak rest a few minutes in the garlic butter off heat before serving — it helps retain juices and soak up flavor.

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What to Serve With Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells

This dish is rich and satisfying, but pairing it with the right sides can take the whole meal to another level. You’ll want items that add freshness, crunch, or a light contrast to balance out the creamy and buttery flavors.

8 Recommendations

1. Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest
   The bright citrus and crisp texture are a great contrast to the creamy shells and buttery steak.
2. Simple Arugula Salad with Balsamic Glaze
   Peppery greens cut through the richness and add freshness to your plate.
3. Garlic Parmesan Broccolini
   A mild green side with its own umami kick — roasts quickly and complements the garlic butter perfectly.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob with Lime Crema
   Adds sweetness, crunch, and a bit of tang to lighten up the dish.
5. Tomato and Avocado Salad
   Cool and refreshing, with creamy avocado and juicy tomatoes offering a break from the heat and cheese.
6. Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Honey Drizzle
   Slightly bitter, caramelized Brussels bring a deep flavor contrast that works surprisingly well with steak.
7. Buttered Sourdough or Garlic Bread
   To mop up every last drop of that garlic butter and chipotle cheese sauce.
8. Sparkling Water with Citrus or a Light Red Wine
   A beverage pairing can elevate the experience — go with something crisp or slightly acidic to cut the richness.

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Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (though it’s rare with a dish this delicious!), you can easily store and reheat them for another satisfying meal.

• Refrigerator: Store the steak bites and creamy shells separately in airtight containers. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: The steak can be frozen for up to 2 months, but the cheese sauce may change texture when thawed. If freezing the pasta, expect to reheat it slowly with extra milk to bring back creaminess.
• Reheating Tips:
  • For the steak, reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or beef broth to keep it moist.
  • For the pasta, warm gently on the stove with a splash of milk to restore the sauce’s texture. Avoid high heat to prevent separation.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving — based on 4 servings)

• Calories: ~710 kcal
• Protein: 43g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 44g
• Saturated Fat: 22g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 160mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 620mg

Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes! Sirloin, ribeye, and even NY strip work great for steak bites. Just avoid overly lean cuts like round steak, which can be tough when seared quickly.

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2. How spicy is the chipotle cheese sauce?

It’s moderately spicy depending on how much chipotle you use. Start with one pepper and a little adobo sauce — you can always add more after tasting.

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3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the components ahead (cube the steak, shred the cheese, mince garlic and chipotle), but it’s best cooked fresh for the best flavor and texture.

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4. Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes. Use gluten-free pasta shells and substitute the all-purpose flour in the cheese sauce with a gluten-free alternative like rice flour or cornstarch.

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5. What kind of white cheddar should I use?

A sharp or extra-sharp white cheddar provides the best flavor. Always go for block cheese and grate it fresh for a smoother sauce.

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6. Can I make the chipotle sauce without dairy?

It’s possible with plant-based butter, unsweetened oat milk, and a vegan cheddar alternative, but texture and flavor will differ.

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7. What can I do if the cheese sauce becomes too thick?

Just add a splash of warm milk or reserved pasta water to loosen it. Stir gently until it returns to a creamy consistency.

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8. How do I know when the steak is perfectly cooked?

Sear 1–2 minutes per side for medium-rare. The center should be slightly pink but not raw. Let the steak rest in the garlic butter off the heat before serving.

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Conclusion

Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells isn’t just a meal — it’s an experience. Juicy, seared steak swimming in garlic butter, paired with smoky, creamy pasta shells is everything comfort food should be. It’s fast enough for a weeknight dinner but bold enough to impress. With a bit of prep and the right balance of spice, this dish is destined to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen.

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