Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells

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Imagine tender, juicy steak bites seared to perfection in a sizzling bath of garlic butter, their savory aroma filling the kitchen. Now, pair them with creamy cheddar Alfredo shells, each pasta pocket generously coated in velvety, cheesy sauce. This combination is comfort food with a gourmet twist—rich, indulgent, and guaranteed to draw everyone to the table.

This dish offers the best of both worlds: the hearty satisfaction of steak and the cozy comfort of cheesy pasta. Whether you’re making it for a special dinner, a weekend indulgence, or just because you deserve something delicious, it’s a recipe that delivers big on both flavor and presentation.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this meal shine, you’ll want the right tools for the job:

• Cast iron skillet – Essential for getting that perfect sear on the steak bites, locking in flavor and creating caramelized edges.
• Large pot – Needed for boiling the pasta to a tender-yet-firm al dente texture.
• Colander – Helps quickly drain the pasta without overcooking it.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – Ideal for tossing steak bites in garlic butter without damaging the skillet surface.
• Measuring cups & spoons – Ensure precision with cheese, cream, and seasoning for balanced flavors.

Using the right equipment not only streamlines the process but also ensures each element of the dish is cooked to perfection.

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Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells

• Sirloin or ribeye steak – Chosen for their tenderness and rich beef flavor, perfect for quick searing.
• Garlic cloves – Fresh garlic infuses the butter with aromatic depth.
• Unsalted butter – Provides a rich base for the garlic sauce without over-salting.
• Heavy cream – Creates a velvety Alfredo sauce that clings beautifully to pasta.
• Cheddar cheese – Adds sharp, tangy richness to the creamy sauce.
• Parmesan cheese – Balances the cheddar with nutty, savory undertones.
• Medium pasta shells – Their shape catches all the cheesy Alfredo goodness.
• Olive oil – Helps sear the steak while keeping it juicy.
• Salt & black pepper – Essential for seasoning and bringing flavors into focus.
• Parsley – Freshly chopped for a pop of color and freshness.

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How To Make the Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells

Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Steak Bites

Pat the steak dry and cut into bite-sized cubes. Season generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the steak bites for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

Lower the heat slightly, then add butter to the skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Return the steak bites to the pan and toss to coat them in the garlic butter. Keep warm on low heat.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta Shells

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheddar Alfredo Sauce

In a separate saucepan, heat heavy cream over medium heat until warm but not boiling. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked pasta shells in the cheddar Alfredo sauce until well-coated. Plate the creamy shells alongside the garlic butter steak bites. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

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Serving and Storing Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Loaded Cheddar Alfredo Shells

Serve this dish immediately for the best experience—the steak bites stay juicy and the pasta remains creamy. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. If you want to elevate it further, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan at the table never hurts.

For storing, keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid microwaving the steak too long, as it can become tough.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, cuts like filet mignon, New York strip, or even flank steak can work. Just adjust cooking time to match the cut’s thickness.

What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?

You can use any heavy-bottomed skillet. Cast iron is ideal for heat retention, but stainless steel or non-stick pans will still get the job done.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, but reheat it gently to prevent the cheese from separating. Add a splash of cream if it thickens too much.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter or whisk some cayenne into the Alfredo sauce.

Can I substitute half-and-half for heavy cream?

You can, but the sauce will be slightly less rich and creamy.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Yes, simply swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta shells and ensure your cheeses are certified gluten-free.

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Want More Steak & Pasta Ideas?

If you love these garlic butter steak bites with loaded cheddar Alfredo shells, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites from Life With Olivia:

• One Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta
• Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini
• One Pan Creamy Cajun Honey Garlic Steak Pasta
• Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add a hint of spice or keep it classic? Did you sneak in extra cheese (because, same)?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

For more daily recipe inspiration, visit my Pinterest page: Life With Olivia on Pinterest

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