Ah, creamy paprika steak shells—that’s basically comfort food with a slight smoky, paprika-kissed kick. Here’s a solid recipe that’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor.
🥩 Creamy Paprika Steak Shells
Servings: 4
Time: ~30–35 min
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta shells
- 1 lb (450 g) steak (ribeye, sirloin, or flank), cut into bite-sized strips
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced (optional but adds sweetness)
- 2 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup beef or chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the pasta
- Boil shells in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the steak
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season steak strips with salt, pepper, and 1 tsp paprika.
- Sear steak 2–3 minutes per side until browned but slightly pink inside. Remove from pan and set aside.
- Make the creamy paprika sauce
- In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, then sauté onions and bell pepper until soft (~5 min).
- Add garlic, remaining paprika, and chili flakes; cook 1 min until fragrant.
- Pour in cream and broth, bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth. Adjust salt and pepper.
- Combine everything
- Add cooked pasta shells and steak back into the skillet.
- Toss until shells are coated in the creamy paprika sauce and steak is warmed through.
- Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
- Optional: drizzle a tiny bit of olive oil or paprika for presentation.
💡 Tips:
- For extra richness, swirl in 1 tbsp of butter at the end.
- You can swap steak for chicken or even smoked sausage if you want a shortcut.
- Leftovers reheat well in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk.
If you want, I can also give you a one-pot, super-easy version where you cook the pasta right in the creamy paprika sauce with the steak—minimal dishes, maximum flavor.
Do you want me to write that version too?
