Get ready for a show-stopping dinner that’s surprisingly easy to make! Our Creamy Cheesy Garlic Steak Pasta Shells with Broccoli & Peppers is the ultimate comfort food, packed with tender, flavorful steak, al dente pasta shells, and a medley of vibrant vegetables, all swimming in a rich, velvety garlic-cheese sauce. It's the kind of meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight or impressive enough for a weekend gathering. The combination of savory steak, sweet bell peppers, crisp broccoli, and a decadent sauce creates a harmonious symphony of flavors and textures that you won't soon forget.
Why You'll Love This Creamy Cheesy Garlic Steak Pasta
This recipe isn't just delicious; it's also incredibly satisfying and versatile. Here’s why it’s destined to become a new family favorite:
- Rich & Flavorful: The garlic-infused cream sauce combined with two types of cheese perfectly complements the seared steak.
- Hearty & Filling: With steak, pasta, and vegetables, it’s a complete meal in one bowl.
- Customizable: Easily swap vegetables or even the type of pasta to suit your preferences.
- Weeknight Friendly: Despite its gourmet taste, this dish comes together in under an hour.
Key Ingredients for Maximum Flavor
The magic of this pasta lies in its simple yet powerful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the incredible taste profile.
The Steak
We recommend using a good quality sirloin or ribeye steak for this recipe. These cuts are known for their tenderness and rich flavor, which really shines through when seared to perfection. Cutting the steak into bite-sized pieces ensures it cooks quickly and is easy to enjoy with the pasta.
The Cheeses
A blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese gives the sauce its signature creaminess and depth. Mozzarella provides that wonderful melt and stretch, while Parmesan adds a sharp, salty tang that elevates the entire dish. Don't skimp on fresh garlic, either – it's the heart of the sauce!
The Vegetables
Broccoli florets and sliced bell peppers not only add beautiful color and essential nutrients but also a delightful texture contrast to the creamy pasta and tender steak. For prepping your ingredients efficiently and safely, having a quality chef's knife makes all the difference when chopping your steak and vegetables.
Tips for Perfect Pasta & Tender Steak
Achieving restaurant-quality results at home is easier than you think with a few simple tips:
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Always cook your pasta according to package directions until it's al dente – slightly firm to the bite. It will finish cooking in the sauce, preventing it from becoming mushy.
- Sear the Steak Properly: Ensure your pan is hot before adding the steak. This creates a beautiful crust and locks in the juices. Don't overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining your pasta, reserve about a cup of the starchy pasta water. It's a secret ingredient that helps to emulsify the sauce, making it extra silky and ensuring it clings perfectly to the pasta.
- Freshly Grated Cheese: For the smoothest, creamiest sauce, use freshly shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Cheesy Garlic Steak Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. A basket of crusty bread is also perfect for soaking up every last bit of that delicious creamy sauce. For a touch of freshness, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives before serving goes a long way.
We hope you love this creamy, dreamy steak pasta as much as we do! It's a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly spectacular. Enjoy!
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Yes, absolutely! While sirloin or ribeye are recommended for their tenderness and flavor, you can also use flank steak, skirt steak, or even a leaner cut like top round. Just be mindful of cooking times to avoid overcooking and ensure your steak remains tender.
What other vegetables can I add to this pasta dish?
This recipe is highly versatile! Feel free to add spinach, mushrooms, asparagus, or even diced zucchini. Incorporate them during the last few minutes of cooking the bell peppers and broccoli to ensure they are tender-crisp.
How should I store and reheat leftover Creamy Cheesy Garlic Steak Pasta?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. You can also microwave it, stirring occasionally.
Can I make this dish spicier?
Certainly! To add a kick, you can include a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic, or stir in a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the creamy sauce before serving.
Creamy Cheesy Garlic Steak Pasta Shells with Broccoli & Peppers
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Standard
Description
Indulge in a hearty and flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender steak, al dente pasta shells, vibrant broccoli and bell peppers, all enveloped in a rich, creamy, and cheesy garlic sauce.
Ingredients
12 oz medium pasta shells
1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the shells and set aside.
Step 2: While pasta cooks, pat the steak pieces dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove steak from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 5: Add broccoli florets and sliced bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
Step 6: Pour in the heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly. Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 7: Return the cooked steak and drained pasta shells to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 8: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot.
Notes
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a subtle kick. Ensure your steak is at room temperature before searing for more even cooking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 580 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
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