Garlic Steak Bites with Creamy Chipotle Pasta

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Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells: Decadent, Flavor-Packed Comfort Food

Introduction

If you’re craving a meal that’s both indulgent and packed with flavor, this recipe for Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells is perfect. Juicy, seared steak bites coated in rich garlic butter pair beautifully with a creamy, spicy macaroni shell pasta, creating a dish that’s both hearty and irresistible.

This recipe brings together succulent steak, smoky chipotle, and sharp white cheddar in a creamy sauce that clings to tender pasta shells. Perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or even a special family meal, this combination offers comfort food at its finest. The garlic butter steak adds depth and savory richness, while the chipotle cheddar shells provide a mild smoky heat and creamy texture.

Whether served on its own or paired with a simple salad or roasted vegetables, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and impress anyone at the dinner table.

A Brief Background

Steak bites are a popular twist on traditional steak dishes, offering bite-sized portions that cook quickly and evenly. Mac and cheese, a beloved comfort food, is elevated here with white cheddar and chipotle peppers, creating a smoky, creamy flavor profile that balances the richness of the garlic butter steak.

Fun fact: Chipotle peppers are smoked and dried jalapeños that bring a subtle heat and deep smokiness. Incorporating them into a creamy cheese sauce adds a gourmet touch to classic mac and cheese.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes for busy weeknights.
  • Flavor Explosion: Garlic butter steak bites paired with smoky, creamy pasta.
  • Comfort Food Elevated: Classic mac and cheese meets gourmet steak.
  • Customizable: Adjust heat level or swap cheeses to suit your taste.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Pasta and steak can be cooked separately and combined.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, date nights, or casual entertaining.

Ingredients & Equipment

Ingredients:

For the Garlic Butter Steak Bites:

  • 1 lb (450 g) sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme or parsley (optional, for garnish)

For the Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells:

  • 8 oz (225 g) medium pasta shells
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (120 g) shredded white cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups (480 ml) milk, warmed
  • 1–2 tsp chipotle powder or 1 chipotle pepper in adobo, finely chopped
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Equipment Needed:

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Medium saucepan for pasta
  • Whisk
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Cheese grater
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Pro Tips:

  • Use high-quality steak for the best flavor and tenderness.
  • Cook pasta al dente; it will absorb the sauce without becoming mushy.
  • Adjust chipotle level to control heat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup pasta water.

2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Steak Bites

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Season steak cubes with salt and black pepper.
  3. Sear steak in batches to avoid overcrowding, about 2–3 minutes per side, until browned but still tender.
  4. Reduce heat to medium, add butter and garlic, and sauté for 1–2 minutes, coating steak in garlic butter.
  5. Remove from skillet and keep warm.

3. Make the Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Sauce

  1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in warmed milk until smooth.
  4. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens.
  5. Stir in shredded white cheddar, chipotle powder or chopped pepper, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  6. Add pasta shells and toss to coat evenly. Use reserved pasta water to adjust consistency if needed.

4. Combine and Serve

  1. Plate creamy chipotle shells and top with garlic butter steak bites.
  2. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for color and aroma.
  3. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Visual Cue: Steak bites should be golden brown and coated in garlic butter, while the pasta should be creamy, cheesy, and slightly smoky with chipotle flavor.

Expert Tips & Troubleshooting

  • Steak Overcooking: Cook in small batches and remove from heat as soon as desired doneness is reached.
  • Sauce Too Thick: Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
  • Sauce Too Thin: Simmer a few extra minutes to thicken.
  • Pasta Clumping: Toss immediately with sauce after draining.
  • Make Ahead: Cook steak and pasta separately; reheat and combine before serving.

Variations & Customizations

  • Cheese Swap: Use smoked cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses for different flavors.
  • Spicy Kick: Add more chipotle peppers or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Vegetable Addition: Stir in roasted red peppers, spinach, or caramelized onions.
  • One-Pan Version: Cook pasta and sauce in the same skillet if desired; add steak at the end.
  • Protein Swap: Use chicken or shrimp instead of steak for a different twist.

Serving & Presentation Ideas

  • Serve with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme.
  • Add a sprinkle of extra cheddar on top for presentation and flavor.
  • Serve in individual bowls for a casual family dinner or platter-style for entertaining.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2–3 days.
  • Freezing: Pasta can be frozen without steak; freeze steak separately if desired.
  • Reheating: Warm pasta gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Reheat steak in a skillet for 2–3 minutes.
  • Meal Prep: Prepare pasta and steak separately; combine just before serving for best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen steak bites?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before searing to prevent excess moisture and steaming.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, substitute steak with sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or plant-based protein alternatives.

Is the dish very spicy?
You can adjust the chipotle to taste; start with 1 tsp or 1 small pepper and increase gradually.

Can I prepare the pasta ahead of time?
Yes, cook pasta al dente and store separately; toss with sauce and reheat before serving.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells are a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Juicy steak coated in garlic butter paired with smoky, cheesy pasta creates a meal that is both indulgent and satisfying.

With its quick preparation, bold flavors, and elegant presentation, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, date nights, or casual entertaining. Serve hot, garnish with fresh herbs, and enjoy a gourmet-style comfort food experience at home.

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