Description
Creamy Paprika Steak Shells is a rich and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender steak strips cooked with smoked paprika, onions, and garlic, all combined in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. This comforting recipe comes together quickly on the stovetop and is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner serving four.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz pasta shells
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 lb steak, cut into thin strips
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook pasta shells: Cook pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to keep warm.
- Heat olive oil: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to prepare for sautéing.
- Season steak: Season the thinly sliced steak strips evenly with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to infuse flavor.
- Cook steak: Add the seasoned steak strips to the hot skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté onion and garlic: In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Simmer sauce: Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer to begin thickening.
- Add Parmesan cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese continuously until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
- Combine steak with sauce: Return the browned steak strips to the skillet and toss to coat them thoroughly with the creamy sauce.
- Add pasta shells: Gently fold the cooked pasta shells into the skillet mixture, combining well and heating everything through evenly.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish for a bright, herbaceous finish and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Use a tender cut of steak such as sirloin or flank steak for best results.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative.
- Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente as it will be reheated briefly in the sauce.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste before serving.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the sauce.
