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Cajun Steak Bites with Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet

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This Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet is a delightful fusion of bold flavors and comforting textures. Juicy steak bites are perfectly complemented by creamy, cheesy pasta shells, making it a dish that warms the soul.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ lbs sirloin steak or ribeye, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 8 oz medium pasta shells
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ cup reserved pasta water (optional)

Instructions

  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the medium pasta shells and cook for about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Remember to reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. While the pasta cooks, pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels. Toss the steak cubes in a bowl with the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes. Once hot, add the olive oil and let it heat until shimmering. Sear the steak bites in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side.
  4. In the final minute of cooking the steak, add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 2 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet. Toss the steak cubes to coat them in the garlic butter.
  5. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add another 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter along with 3 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is aromatic.
  6. Pour in the heavy cream while stirring to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. Allow the cream to simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes.
  7. Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, paprika, black pepper, and salt to the sauce. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
  8. Toss the cooked pasta shells in the cheesy sauce until fully coated. If needed, add more reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce further.
  9. Finally, return the seared steak bites to the skillet, combining everything. Top with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Keywords: To ensure perfectly seared steak bites, make sure your skillet is adequately preheated. Adjust the spice level by adding more or less Cajun seasoning according to your taste.

Find it online: https://crumella.com/cajun-steak-bites-with-cheesy-garlic-shells/