There are some meals that are just made for a cozy night in, and this recipe for Creamy Paprika Steak Shells is the perfect example. It’s a rich, smoky, and incredibly satisfying pasta dish that brings together tender, perfectly seared steak with a velvety, paprika-infused cream sauce, all coating tender pasta shells. The entire meal comes together in one skillet, making it a dream for both flavor and convenience. This is a hearty, delicious, and deeply comforting meal that is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.
Why I love This Recipe
I’m a huge fan of recipes that build layers of flavor with minimal fuss, and this one is a true hero in my kitchen. What I love most is the two-step process of searing the steak first. This not only gives the steak a beautiful crust but also creates a flavorful foundation in the pan for the sauce. The creamy sauce is the star of the show—the combination of heavy cream, savory beef broth, and smoky paprika creates a flavor profile that is both complex and comforting. It’s a complete meal all in one dish, which makes it a dream for busy weeknights when you want to serve something hearty and homemade.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta shells
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 121 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
Swaps and Notes
- Steak: Sirloin and ribeye are great choices for this dish because they are flavorful and tender. You can also use other cuts like flank steak or even a lean cut of beef. The key is to slice the steak into bite-sized pieces.
- Pasta: Pasta shells are perfect for this dish as their shape holds the creamy sauce beautifully. You can easily swap it for other short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli.
- Paprika: Smoked paprika is a key ingredient in this recipe. It adds a wonderful smoky flavor that is essential for the dish. Do not substitute it with regular paprika, as the flavor will not be the same.
- Cheese: The grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor that is a perfect complement to the creamy sauce. You can also add a handful of mozzarella cheese for a little extra gooeyness.
- Herbs: Fresh chopped parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor that cuts through the richness of the sauce. You can also add other fresh herbs like chives or basil.
List of Steps for the Recipe
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta shells in a large pot of salted water according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Season the Steak: While the pasta is cooking, pat your steak pieces dry with a paper towel. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Sear the Steak: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak pieces and sear for 2−3 minutes per side until they are beautifully browned. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan. Remove the steak from the pan and set it aside.
- Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth, stirring to combine and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the sauce simmer for 3−4 minutes until it has thickened slightly.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked pasta shells and the seared steak to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta and steak are evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Steak: The steak will cook very quickly in the hot pan. You want a nice brown crust on the outside and a tender, juicy interior.
- Use a Large Skillet: A large skillet is essential for this recipe. It allows you to sear the steak properly and then combine everything together without making a mess.
- High-Quality Ingredients: Using a good quality steak, a flavorful beef broth, and fresh Parmesan cheese will make a huge difference in the final taste of the dish.
- Taste and Adjust: Don’t be afraid to taste the sauce as you go. You can add more salt, pepper, or paprika to get it just right for your palate.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This creamy steak pasta is a complete meal on its own. For a simple side, a light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would be a perfect complement to the rich, creamy flavors. Some warm, crusty bread would also be a fantastic addition for soaking up every last bit of that delicious sauce.
For a drink pairing, a light-bodied red wine like a Pinot Noir or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc would be a great complement to the savory and smoky flavors.
Nutritional Information
(Please note that this is an estimate and will vary based on specific brands and portion sizes)
This is a rich, hearty, and indulgent meal. It’s a good source of protein from the steak, and it provides carbohydrates from the pasta. While it is higher in calories, it’s a wonderfully satisfying meal that is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Leftovers of this dish are fantastic! Store any remaining portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can place a serving in a microwave-safe dish and warm it up, adding a splash of milk or broth to help re-create the creamy texture. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet over low heat, stirring in a little liquid until it’s smooth.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Paprika Steak Shells recipe is a timeless classic for a reason. It’s a comforting, delicious, and easy meal that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender steak and a rich, creamy sauce is simply irresistible. I hope you enjoy this effortless and delicious meal as much as I do!
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