Here’s a delicious recipe for Creamy Paprika Steak Shells—a rich, flavorful pasta dish with tender steak pieces, creamy sauce, and a smoky paprika kick.
Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
For the Pasta
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta shells
- Salt for boiling water
For the Steak & Sauce
- 1/2 lb (225 g) steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized strips
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)
- 1/2 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Boil pasta shells in salted water until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup pasta water.
2. Cook the Steak
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season steak pieces with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika.
- Sear steak for 2–3 minutes per side until browned but still tender. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, sauté onions until translucent.
- Add garlic, paprika, and chili flakes; cook for 30 seconds.
- Pour in broth, scraping up any brown bits from the pan.
- Reduce heat slightly, then stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
- Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
4. Combine
- Add cooked pasta shells to the sauce and toss gently.
- Return steak to the skillet and mix until everything is coated in creamy sauce.
- If needed, use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce slightly.
5. Serve
- Garnish with chopped parsley or chives.
- Serve immediately with a side salad or garlic bread.
Tips
- Steak doneness: Cook steak slightly underdone; it will continue cooking in the sauce.
- Cheese: Gruyère or Fontina can be substituted for Parmesan for a creamier taste.
- Extra flavor: Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the sauce.
If you want, I can also give a one-pan shortcut version of this dish that cooks the pasta, steak, and sauce together for faster cleanup and even richer flavor.
Do you want me to do that?
