If you’re craving a rich, cozy dinner that feels restaurant-worthy but comes together in under an hour, Creamy Paprika Steak Shells is the answer. Tender, juicy steak bites are seasoned with smoky paprika, then folded into perfectly cooked pasta shells coated in a velvety garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. Every bite is creamy, savory, and deeply satisfying.
📝 Ingredients
12 oz shell pasta
1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1½ teaspoons smoked paprika, divided
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup beef broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the shell pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ¼ cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.
Step 2: Season the Steak
Pat the steak pieces dry with paper towels to help them sear properly. Season with salt, black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Toss well to coat evenly.
Step 3: Sear the Steak
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steak in a single layer. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and caramelized on the outside but still tender inside. Avoid overcrowding the pan. Remove steak from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Build the Flavor
Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, stir in the garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in the remaining ½ teaspoon smoked paprika.
Step 5: Make the Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth, scraping up the flavorful browned bits from the pan. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
Stir in the Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 7: Combine and Serve
Return the pasta and steak to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately for a comforting, flavorful meal everyone will love.