Description
If you’re looking for a bold, crave-worthy dinner that feels like a restaurant meal but comes together in under 30 minutes, this Cajun Steak Bites with Cheesy Garlic Shell Pasta Skillet is it. Juicy, Cajun-spiced steak bites are seared to perfection and served over tender shell pasta coated in a luscious garlic cheese sauce. It’s rich, satisfying, and perfect for weeknights, special occasions, or anytime you want next-level comfort food. Whether you’re searching for quick dinner ideas, easy recipes with steak, or creamy pasta dishes, this skillet meal checks every box—flavorful, fast, and unforgettable.
Ingredients
1 pound sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter, divided
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces shell pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cut steak into 1 to 1½-inch cubes and pat dry with paper towels. Season generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
2. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once hot, sear steak bites for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and crusty. Work in batches if needed. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook shell pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Sauté the garlic over medium heat for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for 3–4 minutes to thicken slightly.
6. Lower the heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted and smooth.
7. Add cooked pasta and toss to coat in the garlic cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Return steak bites to the skillet or serve on top. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Don’t skip drying the steak—it’s key to getting a flavorful crust.
Always add cheese off the heat or on low to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.
Save some pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed during reheating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: easy dinner, skillet meal, Cajun steak, cheesy pasta, comfort food