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Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan – A Must-Try Creamy Dinner

If you’re craving a dinner that feels indulgent, comforting, and undeniably satisfying, garlic butter steak bites with Parmesan are here to deliver. Juicy sirloin steak seared to perfection, bathed in rich garlic butter, and finished in a silky Parmesan cream sauce—this dish hits every note. Add tender pasta shells that soak up all that flavor, and you’ve got a meal that feels restaurant-worthy yet totally doable on a weeknight. What makes this recipe special is the layering of flavor. Smoky paprika and cracked pepper enhance the beef, garlic butter adds depth, and a whisper of nutmeg brings warmth to the creamy sauce. Parmesan ties it all together, creating a glossy finish that clings to every bite. It’s bold, cozy, and designed to impress without complicated steps. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or just treating yourself, this garlic butter steak bites with Parmesan dinner is a must-try that earns a permanent spot in your rotation.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 5 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Protein
  • 1½ lbs sirloin steak cut into bite-sized cubes
Pasta
  • 8 oz small pasta shells
Aromatics & Herbs
  • 6 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped
Dairy & Sauce
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1½ cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water
Seasoning
  • 1½ teaspoons salt
  • ¾ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Cooking Fat
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • These ingredients create a rich savory, and luxuriously creamy steak and pasta dish.

Equipment

  • Large pot (for pasta)
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Tongs
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander

Method
 

Step 1:
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
Step 2:
  1. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 3:
  1. Pat the steak bites dry with paper towels. Season evenly with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
Step 4:
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 5:
  1. Add the steak bites in a single layer. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until deeply browned and just cooked through.
Step 6:
  1. Remove the steak bites from the skillet and set aside, keeping them warm.
Step 7:
  1. Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet.
Step 8:
  1. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 9:
  1. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently and scraping up the flavorful bits from the pan.
Step 10:
  1. Season the sauce with ground nutmeg and a pinch of salt if needed.
Step 11:
  1. Lower the heat and gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 12:
  1. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it’s too thick.
Step 13:
  1. Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the Parmesan cream sauce.
Step 14:
  1. Return the steak bites to the skillet and gently fold them into the pasta.
Step 15:
  1. Cook for 1–2 minutes until everything is heated through and glossy.
Step 16:
  1. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer:
Not recommended due to the cream-based sauce.
Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.
🥄 Variations
Extra garlic: Add 1–2 more garlic cloves
Ultra creamy: Increase heavy cream slightly
Spicier kick: Add more red pepper flakes
Cheese-forward: Add extra Parmesan on top
Pasta swap: Use any small pasta shape
These variations keep the essence of garlic butter steak bites while letting you tailor the dish to your taste.
❓ 10 FAQs
What cut of steak works best?
Sirloin is tender and flavorful for steak bites.
Can I skip the pasta?
Yes, serve the steak bites with the sauce alone.
Is nutmeg necessary?
A small amount adds warmth and depth.
Can kids eat this?
Yes, reduce red pepper flakes for a milder version.
Why reserve pasta water?
It helps adjust sauce consistency smoothly.
Can I cook the steak ahead?
Yes, add it back just before serving.
Does Parmesan melt well?
Freshly grated Parmesan melts best.
How do I keep steak tender?
Sear quickly and avoid overcooking.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, cook steak in batches to avoid crowding.
Is this a full meal?
Yes, it’s rich, filling, and satisfying.
🏁 Conclusion
This garlic butter steak bites with Parmesan recipe is the ultimate comfort dinner—bold, creamy, and packed with flavor. Juicy steak, velvety sauce, and tender pasta come together in a dish that feels indulgent yet easy enough for any night of the week. One bite, and you’ll understand why this is truly a must-try dinner.