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Creamy Paprika Steak Shells

Creamy Paprika Steak Shells That Feel Like a Cozy Hug

Creamy Paprika Steak Shells provide a warm and comforting dinner option, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Shell Pasta Can substitute with orecchiette or rotini
For the Steak
  • 1 lb Steak (sirloin or ribeye) Substitute with flank steak or chicken thighs
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper Use fresh-cracked for best results
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Avocado oil is a good alternative
For the Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Butter Ghee can provide a nuttier taste
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Fresh garlic is preferred
  • 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika Sweet paprika can be used for milder flavor
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half can be used for a lighter version
  • ½ cup Beef Broth Vegetable broth is a suitable alternative
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese (grated) Pecorino Romano can be used for sharper flavor
For Garnish
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped)

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Large Skillet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the shell pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water for later use, then drain the pasta, and set aside.
  2. Pat the steak dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes on each side until nicely browned. Remove from skillet and let it rest.
  3. Lower the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This builds a flavorful base for your sauce.
  4. Stir in 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika into the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Cook, stirring for 10-15 seconds to bloom the spices and enhance their flavors.
  5. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of beef broth, stirring well. Allow to simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  6. Mix in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth. If too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
  7. Return the cooked steak to the skillet, slicing into bite-sized pieces if desired. Add the drained shell pasta and gently toss to ensure everything is coated in the sauce.
  8. Serve immediately and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To freeze, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water.

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