Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet Recipe
Get ready to win dinner with the Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet—a mouthwatering combo that pairs bold, juicy steak with creamy, luscious garlic-cheese pasta. This one-pan wonder offers the excitement of a steakhouse meal right in your own kitchen, but with a serious comfort food twist. It’s equal parts special occasion and cozy weeknight indulgence, delivering savory Cajun flavors, tender steak, perfectly cooked shells, and an irresistible cheesy sauce—all topped off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and freshness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet comes from a lineup of ingredients that are both straightforward and a total flavor bomb. Every component brings something vital, whether it’s the sizzle of sirloin, the gooey cheddar, or the punch of Cajun seasoning—so you’re guaranteed a dish that’s loaded with character.
- Sirloin steak or ribeye (1 ½ lbs): Choose a well-marbled cut for tender, juicy steak bites that soak up all those Cajun spices.
- Cajun seasoning (2 tbsp): This is where the signature heat and smoky depth come in—feel free to use store-bought or your homemade favorite!
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Helps get that perfect sear on the steak and adds a hint of fruitiness to every bite.
- Unsalted butter (4 tbsp, divided): Delivers richness to both steak and noodles; using unsalted lets you control the savory balance.
- Garlic (5 cloves, minced and divided): Adds an aromatic backbone, making everything pop with garlicky goodness.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every layer of the dish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: This garnish brings color and a fresh, herby lift at the finish.
- Medium pasta shells (8 oz): Captures that cheesy sauce in every curve—definitely a must for cheesy pasta lovers.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): The secret to a silky, ultra-indulgent sauce you’ll want to lick straight from the pan.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into gooey, bold-tasting bliss, forming the backbone of your cheese sauce.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Adds savory saltiness and extra creamy texture.
- Paprika (½ tsp): Delivers gentle warmth and helps deepen the color of the sauce.
- Reserved pasta water (¼ cup, optional): A chef’s trick for adjusting the consistency of your sauce.
How to Make Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells
Bring a large pot of salted water to a robust boil and cook your pasta shells just until al dente. These sturdy shells are perfect for soaking up that soon-to-be luscious cheese sauce. Before draining, reserve about a quarter cup of pasta water to help adjust your sauce’s creaminess later on.
Step 2: Prep and Season the Steak
Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels so they brown up beautifully. Toss them in the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper, making sure every bite is thoroughly coated with a punch of flavor—this is the first step to achieving legendary steak bites!
Step 3: Sear the Steak Bites
Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high until shimmering hot. Swirl in the olive oil and add the steak cubes in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Sear them for 2–3 minutes per side. In the final minute, drop in some butter and the garlic, tossing everything together as the aromas fly. Once the steak bites have a crust and a juicy center, set them aside so they don’t overcook.
Step 4: Start the Cheese Sauce
In the same skillet (no need to wash away those steak drippings!), reduce the heat to medium, then add more butter and garlic, sautéing until fragrant. The pan will already be loaded with flavor, taking your sauce to legendary levels.
Step 5: Create Creamy Goodness
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to deglaze the pan and scoop up all those tasty browned bits. Let it simmer gently so the cream thickens and soaks up all the garlicky, Cajun notes.
Step 6: Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle in shredded cheddar, Parmesan, paprika, pepper, and a bit more salt if needed. Stir it all together until the cheeses are melted and the sauce becomes irresistibly creamy, coating the back of a spoon.
Step 7: Toss the Pasta Shells
Add the cooked pasta shells to the cheesy sauce and gently toss to ensure every nook gets filled with cheesy, garlicky bliss. If the sauce feels too thick, drizzle in a splash of reserved pasta water until it’s just how you like it—creamy but not runny.
Step 8: Finish and Serve
Finally, nestle the glorious steak bites on top of the shells and shower everything with chopped parsley. Serve Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet immediately for maximum flavor and wow factor.
How to Serve Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet
Garnishes
For that final restaurant-style touch, be generous with fresh chopped parsley—it adds a vibrant pop of green against the rich, creamy sauce. Try a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan or even a few sliced scallions to give a fresh crunch and color contrast to your Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet.
Side Dishes
While this skillet is a hearty meal all on its own, it plays beautifully with a side of crisp, peppery arugula salad or simply roasted veggies. Don’t forget a crusty hunk of bread to mop up every cheesy, garlicky drop!
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet straight from the skillet for a rustic, shareable presentation. Or, portion it into individual bowls and top each with a dramatic heap of steak bites and a flourish of parsley for dinner party flair. Even try serving in mini cast iron skillets for fun, single-serve portions!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), transfer everything to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making each bite just as crave-worthy the next day!
Freezing
While the steak bites freeze beautifully, the creamy cheese sauce can separate upon thawing. If you must freeze, cool completely, then freeze only the steak and shells separately. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop.
Reheating
For best results, reheat your Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet gently over low heat on the stove, stirring often. Add a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back together. Microwave reheating works in a pinch—just go slow and stir frequently to keep it creamy.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this skillet?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye bring the most tenderness and flavor, feel free to use NY strip or flat iron. Just look for a cut that cooks up juicy in quick searing.
Is this recipe super spicy?
That all depends on your Cajun seasoning brand. If you like things milder, choose a more mild Cajun blend or cut the amount down a notch. Add spice lovers can toss in a pinch of cayenne!
Can I make this Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet gluten-free?
Definitely. Swap the regular pasta shells for your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check your Cajun seasoning for any hidden gluten. The rest of the recipe stays exactly the same.
What’s the best cheese to use if I want to try something different?
Experiment with smoked gouda or fontina for an ultra-creamy, different spin. Or amp up the flavor with extra-sharp cheddar or a touch of blue cheese if you’re feeling bold!
How do I keep the steak bites juicy?
The trick is not to overcrowd the pan and to sear hot and fast—just 2–3 minutes per side will do the trick. Let them rest briefly before serving to keep them perfectly tender.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about the Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet—it’s soul-warming, crowd-pleasing, and weeknight-friendly all at once. Give it a try and watch your family (or your dinner guests) light up at first bite. Here’s to unforgettable flavors and happy tables!
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Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Indulge in the bold flavors of Cajun spices with tender steak bites served alongside creamy, cheesy garlic shells in this easy one-skillet recipe.
Ingredients
For the Steak Bites:
- 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)
For the Cheesy Garlic Shells:
- 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)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta shells to al dente. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Steak Bites: Pat steak cubes dry with paper towels. Toss in Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Sear the Steak Bites: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil. Sear steak bites in batches for 2–3 minutes per side. In final minute, add butter and minced garlic; toss to coat. Remove steak bites and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic; sauté for 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream, stirring to deglaze the pan. Simmer gently. Add shredded cheddar, Parmesan, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir until cheese melts and sauce becomes creamy.
- Combine and Serve: Toss cooked pasta shells into the cheese sauce. Add pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Top with seared steak bites and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Cajun seasoning.
- Feel free to customize the cheese blend with your favorite varieties.
- This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Sauté, Simmer
- Cuisine: Cajun, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
Keywords: Cajun Steak Bites, Cheesy Garlic Shells, Skillet Recipe, One-Pan Meal
