Description

This Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet is a flavorful, hearty one-pan meal combining tender, spicy steak bites with creamy, cheesy pasta shells. The dish features perfectly seared sirloin or ribeye cubes seasoned with Cajun spices, served atop a luscious garlic cream sauce loaded with sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Quick to prepare and packed with robust flavors, this skillet dinner is perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal or casual weekend gathering.

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
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp black pepper
Salt, to taste
¼ cup reserved pasta water (optional)

Instructions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the medium pasta shells and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water before draining the shells and setting them aside.
Prepare the steak: Pat the steak cubes dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Toss the steak pieces with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper evenly to coat.
Sear the steak bites: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, sear the steak cubes for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. In the final minute, add the butter and minced garlic to the pan, tossing the steak bites to coat them with the garlic butter. Remove the steak bites from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the garlic: Reduce the heat to medium in the same skillet. Add butter and minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
Make the cream sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, using a spatula or wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet (deglazing the pan). Let the cream gently simmer for a couple of minutes to slightly thicken.
Add cheese and spices: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar, grated Parmesan, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Continue stirring until all the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Toss in pasta shells: Add the cooked pasta shells into the cheese sauce, stirring well to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Combine and serve: Top the cheesy garlic pasta with the seared Cajun steak bites. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

For a spicier kick, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add red pepper flakes.
Use a cast iron skillet for the best sear and flavor development on the steak bites.
Be careful not to overcook the steak cubes as they can become tough; 2-3 minutes per side is enough for medium rare to medium.
The reserved pasta water contains starch which helps to loosen and bind the cheese sauce to the pasta perfectly.
Fresh parsley adds a nice color contrast and fresh herb flavor; feel free to substitute with chives or basil if preferred.
Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but the texture will be less rich.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

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