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Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet

Cajun Steak Bites and Cheesy Garlic Shells Skillet – Bold, Cheesy & Skillet-Perfect!

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A delicious dish combining Cajun seasoned steak bites with cheesy garlic pasta shells, perfect for a hearty meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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)
  • 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

  1. 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.
  2. Pat steak cubes dry with paper towels. Toss in Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. 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.
  4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic; sauté for 1 minute.
  5. Pour in heavy cream, stirring to deglaze the pan. Simmer gently.
  6. Add shredded cheddar, Parmesan, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir until cheese melts and sauce becomes creamy.
  7. Toss cooked pasta shells into the cheese sauce. Add pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
  8. Top with seared steak bites and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste for spiciness.
  • For a creamier sauce, add more heavy cream or pasta water as needed.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.

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