Creamy Paprika Steak Pasta Shell Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with this delectable recipe for Creamy Paprika Steak Shells. Picture this: tender bites of juicy steak, perfectly cooked shell pasta, all enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight. Whether you’re looking to elevate a weeknight dinner or impress your loved ones with a special meal, these creamy paprika steak shells are sure to hit the spot.

I stumbled upon this recipe when I had some leftover steak from a weekend dinner, and it was an instant hit with my family. The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a luxurious sauce that feels like a treat without requiring hours in the kitchen. Every bite reminds me of those cozy family vacations and the delicious pasta dishes we enjoyed at our favorite steakhouse.

With a nod to Eastern European paprikash and Italian steak pasta traditions, this dish brings together the best of both worlds. The bold flavor of smoked paprika adds a delightful twist without the need for lengthy simmering. Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite seasonal ingredients, from wilted spinach in spring to diced roasted peppers in summer, making it a versatile and beloved staple in your recipe collection. So, gather your loved ones around the table and savor the magic of creamy paprika steak shells that keeps bringing people together, one delicious bowl at a time.

Quick Benefits

• Tender bites of steak paired with perfectly cooked pasta shells create a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Rich and indulgent sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese adds a touch of luxury to any weeknight dinner.
• Versatile recipe allows for ingredient swaps like chicken, mushrooms, or different types of cheese to suit various dietary preferences.
• Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to three days, making it a convenient option for quick lunches or busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Paprika Steak Pasta Shell Recipe Recipe

• If you love hearty and comforting meals, this Creamy Paprika Steak Shells recipe is a must-try.
• The rich sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese is indulgent yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner.
• It’s a great way to use up leftover steak, turning it into a delicious and satisfying meal.
• The recipe offers versatile ingredient swaps, making it budget-friendly and adaptable for different dietary preferences.
• The dish is a fusion of Eastern European and Italian flavors, delivering bold and comforting taste profiles.
• You can easily customize the recipe throughout the year by adding seasonal ingredients like spinach, basil, or roasted peppers for variety.
• Families and picky eaters alike will enjoy the tender steak and creamy pasta, making it a crowd-pleaser.
• The recipe is perfect for meal prep – you can freeze the steak and sauce mixture ahead of time for a quick weeknight dinner.
• Creamy Paprika Steak Shells is a dish that brings people together, perfect for sharing stories and laughter over a delicious bowl.

Ingredients for Creamy Paprika Steak Pasta Shell Recipe

Pasta

• 12 ounces shell pasta

Meat

• 1 pound sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized pieces

Seasonings

• 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Fats & Oils

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter

Aromatics

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

Sauce

• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup beef broth

Garnish

• Chopped fresh parsley

Pro Tips for Creamy Paprika Steak Pasta Shell Recipe

Pro Tip 1: For maximum flavor, sear the steak quickly over high heat to get a nice crust while keeping the inside tender. Removing the steak from the skillet before making the sauce ensures it stays juicy and doesn’t overcook.

Pro Tip 2: Shells are a great choice for this dish as they capture the creamy sauce, but if you prefer, penne or fusilli can be used as well. The pasta shape can affect the overall texture and flavor experience, so choose based on your preference.

Pro Tip 3: To enhance the creaminess of the sauce, consider using half-and-half or evaporated milk as alternatives to heavy cream. While they may result in a slightly lighter sauce, they still offer a rich and velvety texture that complements the dish well.

How to Make Creamy Paprika Steak Pasta Shell Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Pasta

Cook shell pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente following package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season Steak

Dry the steak with paper towels, then coat it evenly with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.

Step 3: Sear Steak

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add steak in a single layer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until well browned. Transfer steak to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

Lower the heat to medium, then add butter to the skillet. Once melted, sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Make Cream Sauce

Add heavy cream and beef broth to the pan, stir to combine, and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 6: Incorporate Cheese

Combine grated Parmesan cheese with the sauce, stirring until melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Combine All Components

Add the drained pasta and seared steak back to the skillet and toss with the creamy sauce until evenly coated.

Step 8: Finish and Garnish

Take the pan off the heat. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot right away.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared and enjoyed your Creamy Paprika Steak Shells, store any leftovers in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator. These leftovers will stay fresh for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove with a splash of milk or water to help restore the creamy texture of the sauce. Avoid high heat during reheating to prevent the sauce from breaking and losing its consistency.

If you are looking to make variations or substitutions to the recipe, consider using chicken thigh or rotisserie chicken as a budget-friendly alternative to steak. Mushroom lovers can opt for thick-cut portobello strips for a satisfying vegetarian twist. For added richness, you can substitute crème fraîche or mascarpone for heavy cream, and Pecorino Romano can replace Parmesan for a sharper flavor profile. Serve the dish with garlic bread, a simple arugula salad, steamed broccoli, or peas for a colorful and fresh accompaniment.

For a quick weeknight meal, you can prepare the steak and sauce mixture ahead of time and freeze it flat in a zip bag. Thaw the mixture and reheat it before adding freshly cooked pasta shells for an almost instant dinner. This versatile dish brings together the flavors of Eastern European paprikash and Italian steak pasta traditions, offering a comforting and indulgent meal that is sure to please a crowd.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a budget-friendly option, consider using chicken thigh or rotisserie chicken instead of steak. Both options will still provide a delicious protein element to the dish. If you prefer a vegetarian alternative, thick-cut portobello strips can be used as a satisfying substitution for the steak.

If heavy cream is not available, crème fraîche or mascarpone can be used for added richness in the sauce. Additionally, Pecorino Romano can be used instead of Parmesan for a sharper flavor profile. These substitutions can help tailor the dish to your preferences or dietary needs while still maintaining a creamy and indulgent texture.

Feel free to customize the dish with seasonal ingredients. For example, add wilted spinach or diced roasted peppers in the spring, fresh basil in the summer, or a pinch of chili flakes in the fall to enhance the flavors. These small tweaks can add a refreshing twist to the dish and make it even more enjoyable for different occasions throughout the year.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try topping the Creamy Paprika Steak Shells with crispy fried shallots for an extra crunch and burst of flavor. The shallots will complement the rich sauce and tender steak perfectly, adding a delightful texture contrast to each bite.

Another fun idea is to serve the Creamy Paprika Steak Shells in individual baked pastry shells or puff pastry cups. This presentation adds an elegant touch to the dish and creates a unique dining experience. Simply fill the pastry shells with the creamy steak and pasta mixture before baking until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Your guests will love the combination of creamy filling and flaky pastry!

FAQs for Creamy Paprika Steak Pasta Shell Recipe

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, penne or fusilli can be great alternatives to shells, as they also hold the sauce well.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?

Half-and-half or evaporated milk can be used as substitutes for heavy cream, but the sauce may be slightly less rich.

Can I use a different cut of meat instead of sirloin or ribeye?

If steak is not in your budget, you can use chicken thigh or rotisserie chicken as a great swap for the sirloin or ribeye in this recipe.

What is the difference between smoked paprika and sweet paprika in this recipe?

While smoked paprika gives a distinctive flavor to the dish, sweet paprika can also be used as an alternative if that’s what you have on hand, though the smokiness will be less pronounced.

Conclusion

Creamy Paprika Steak Shells is a dish that never fails to impress with its rich flavors and comforting appeal. Whether you’re treating your family to a special meal or simply indulging in a satisfying weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. The tender steak, perfectly cooked pasta, and creamy paprika-infused sauce come together to create a dish that is both hearty and luxurious.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own by trying out different variations and additions. Whether you’re swapping out the protein, adding in extra veggies, or experimenting with different herbs and spices, there are endless ways to customize Creamy Paprika Steak Shells to suit your preferences. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility and ability to bring people together over a delicious meal.

So, gather your loved ones around the table, share stories, and savor each bite of this delightful dish. Creamy Paprika Steak Shells is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of good food, good company, and the joy of cooking. Enjoy every moment spent preparing and enjoying this dish, and let it warm your heart and nourish your soul.