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Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 121 reviews

Creamy Paprika Steak Shells is a comforting and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender seared steak bites enveloped in a rich, smoky paprika cream sauce. Perfectly cooked shell pasta is tossed in a luscious sauce made from heavy cream, beef broth, and Parmesan cheese, making it an indulgent yet approachable meal suitable for weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta

  • 12 oz shell pasta

For the Steak and Sauce

  • 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the shell pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside for later.
  2. Season the Steak: In a bowl, toss the bite-sized steak pieces with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until they are evenly coated with seasoning.
  3. Sear the Steak: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak pieces and sear for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a deep brown crust while remaining tender inside. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
  4. Sauté Garlic: Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, making sure not to let it burn.
  5. Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth, stirring to combine and scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
  6. Add Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted, creating a creamy, smooth sauce.
  7. Toss Pasta and Steak: Return the cooked shell pasta and seared steak pieces to the skillet. Gently toss to coat everything evenly in the creamy paprika sauce.
  8. Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately while piping hot for the best flavor and comfort.

Notes

  • You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it will be less rich.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes along with the smoked paprika.
  • Ensure not to overcook the steak to keep it tender and juicy.
  • Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
  • To make this dish gluten free, use gluten-free pasta shells.

Keywords: creamy steak pasta, paprika steak shells, comfort food, creamy pasta, steak dinner, easy weeknight meal

Find it online: https://flavorsbymaya.com/creamy-paprika-steak-shells-recipe/