Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet is a dish that embodies the perfect balance of flavors. With tender steak bites coated in zesty Cajun seasoning paired with creamy, cheesy pasta shells, this skillet meal is sure to please both family and friends. Quick to prepare yet bursting with robust taste, it’s ideal for any weeknight or gathering. Let’s dive into why you should make this delightful dish and how you can whip it up easily in your own kitchen!
Why Make This Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Cajun cuisine with the comforting heartiness of cheesy pasta, making it an irresistible choice for dinner. The sirloin steak or ribeye adds a juicy, meaty anchor to the dish, while the creamy sauce delivers a luscious texture that perfectly coats each shell. The quick cooking time means you won’t be stuck in the kitchen for long, allowing you to enjoy more precious moments with your loved ones. If you’re craving something that’s both satisfying and full of flavor, this recipe won’t disappoint!
How to Make Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet
Making this delicious dish is a breeze! Start by prepping your ingredients; having everything ready will streamline the cooking process. You’ll cook the pasta shells to al dente perfection, then focus on searing the steak, which adds a wonderful depth of flavor. The final touch is the creamy cheese sauce that pulls everything together. The interplay of spices and the hearty textures in this skillet will have your taste buds dancing!
Ingredients:
- 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)
- 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)
Directions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells until al dente, as per package instructions. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels. Toss them in Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Sear the steak bites in batches for 2–3 minutes on each side. In the final minute, add butter and minced garlic, tossing to coat. Remove the steak bites and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to deglaze the pan and lift any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Allow it to simmer gently.
- Add the shredded cheddar, Parmesan, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Toss the cooked pasta shells into the cheese sauce. Add the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Top with the seared steak bites and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 570
- Total Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
- Sodium: 750mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 36g
How to Serve Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet
Serve this dish hot, straight from the skillet, to keep it warm and inviting. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. You could also consider serving it alongside some crusty garlic bread for those who adore extra carbs! A glass of chilled white wine or iced tea will complement the flavors beautifully, rounding out the dining experience.
How to Store Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or pasta water to restore the creamy texture.
Expert Tips for Perfect Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet
- Pat the steak dry: Removing excess moisture helps achieve a perfect sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cook the steak in batches to ensure a nice crust.
- Customize your cheese: If you prefer a different cheese, feel free to use gouda, mozzarella, or even cream cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Adjust the spice level: If you like things spicy, add cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to your cheese sauce!
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Swap out the steak for grilled vegetables or sautéed mushrooms for a rich, earthy flavor.
- Seafood Twist: Substitute shrimp for the steak bites, cooking them just until opaque, to add a delightful seafood twist.
- Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, kale, or cherry tomatoes to increase the nutritional value and add color to the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye are great options, you can use flank steak, tenderloin, or even chicken breast if you prefer.
2. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option, or use a plant-based cream if you want a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
3. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To turn this dish into a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta shells and double-check your Cajun seasoning for gluten ingredients.
Conclusion
Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet is a dish that promises comfort and satisfaction in every bite. With bursts of flavor from Cajun spices harmonizing with a creamy, cheesy sauce, it’s a recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this meal will surely impress. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and bring this delicious dish to your table tonight! Happy cooking!
Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells until al dente, as per package instructions. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels. Toss them in Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Sear the steak bites in batches for 2–3 minutes on each side. In the final minute, add butter and minced garlic, tossing to coat. Remove the steak bites and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to deglaze the pan and lift any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Allow it to simmer gently.
- Add the shredded cheddar, Parmesan, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Toss the cooked pasta shells into the cheese sauce. Add the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Top with the seared steak bites and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!