Creamy Paprika Steak Shells

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that feels both indulgent and effortless, look no further than these Creamy Paprika Steak Shells. This dish brings together tender steak and pasta shells in a rich, smoky cream sauce that is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this recipe shines in its simplicity and flavor.

What makes this dish truly special is how quickly it comes together—ready in under 40 minutes! Plus, who doesn’t love a one-skillet meal? You’ll spend less time cleaning up and more time enjoying the company of loved ones around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be on the table in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and savory flavors. It’s sure to become a favorite!
• One-Skillet Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to relax after cooking. Just one pan does it all!
• Deliciously Versatile: You can easily customize this dish with different proteins or veggies based on what you have at home.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Rich, creamy sauce paired with hearty steak makes for a delightful, satisfying meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need anything fancy for these Creamy Paprika Steak Shells—just simple, wholesome ingredients that you can find at any grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb steak (sirloin, flank, or ribeye, sliced thin across the grain)
• 8 oz medium shell pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1.5 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 0.5 cup beef broth or white grape juice
• 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• Fresh herbs (parsley or thyme, optional for garnish)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to adapt it based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try chicken or even tofu for a lighter option. Both will work beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers during the sautéing step for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to give your dish an extra kick.
• Cheese alternatives: If you’re looking for dairy-free options, use plant-based cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

How to Make Creamy Paprika Steak Shells

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Cooking the medium shell pasta for 8-10 minutes until al dente is crucial because it keeps its shape when mixed with the sauce later on. Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water—it’s your secret weapon for adjusting sauce thickness!

Step 2: Sear the Steak

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil until shimmering. Pat your steak slices dry before they hit the pan; this helps achieve that beautiful brown crust we all love! Searing them for just 2-3 minutes per side locks in flavor while keeping them tender.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Lower your heat to medium and add butter, diced onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sautéing these ingredients allows their natural sweetness to come out—this step adds depth to our creamy sauce!

Step 4: Build Flavor with Paprika

Stir in smoked paprika—this is where that wonderful smoky flavor starts developing! Allowing it to bloom for about 30 seconds releases its oils and enhances its aroma.

Step 5: Create the Cream Sauce

Now pour in beef broth (or white grape juice if you’re going that route) to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom; they pack tons of flavor! Then add heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until smooth—this is where creamy magic happens!

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Steak

With everything combined beautifully in your skillet, return both the cooked pasta and seared steak back into the mix. Toss everything together until well-coated in that luscious sauce. If you find it too thick, slowly add reserved pasta water until you’ve reached your preferred consistency.

Step 7: Season & Serve

Finally, season with salt and black pepper to taste—this little step elevates all those flavors! Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you like; they add brightness that complements the richness.

And there you have it—a warm bowl of Creamy Paprika Steak Shells ready to enjoy with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Paprika Steak Shells

Making creamy paprika steak shells can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you can elevate your dish to perfection!

• Choose the Right Cut of Steak: Opt for tender cuts like sirloin or flank. They cook quickly and remain juicy, enhancing the overall flavor of your dish.

• Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: Reserving some pasta water is key! It helps adjust the sauce’s consistency, ensuring it clings beautifully to the pasta without being too heavy.

• Bloom Your Spices: Letting the smoked paprika bloom in the skillet releases its full flavor potential. This small step makes a big difference in depth of flavor.

• Cook on Medium Heat: Keeping the heat at medium when adding cream prevents it from curdling and ensures a smooth, creamy sauce that’s rich and delicious.

• Taste as You Go: Seasoning throughout the cooking process allows you to adjust flavors according to your preference. Don’t be shy—this is your dish!

How to Serve Creamy Paprika Steak Shells

Presenting creamy paprika steak shells can turn a simple meal into a feast! Here are some ideas to make your dish shine when serving.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or thyme adds color and freshness, elevating both the presentation and taste.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a lovely aromatic touch.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: The perfect accompaniment for scooping up any remaining sauce, garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Steamed Broccoli: Its vibrant green color complements the dish visually while providing a nutritious balance.
• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette can cleanse the palate and add crunch alongside your creamy pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring out natural sweetness and add texture to your meal, making it more satisfying.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your creamy paprika steak shells! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Paprika Steak Shells recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, comforting flavors even on your busiest days. With proper storage, you can savor leftovers or prepare ahead for a quick dinner.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover creamy paprika steak shells in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before sealing the container.

Freezing

• To freeze, place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Label with the date and name of the dish for easy identification.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
• You can also microwave it in short increments, stirring frequently until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Paprika Steak Shells that might help you out!

Can I use other types of meat for Creamy Paprika Steak Shells?

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for steak, you can substitute it with chicken breast or turkey slices. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure it’s fully cooked.

How do I make Creamy Paprika Steak Shells vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian-friendly, swap out the steak for sautéed mushrooms or your favorite plant-based protein. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and follow the rest of the recipe as directed.

Can I add vegetables to my Creamy Paprika Steak Shells?

Yes! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. Sauté them along with the onions and garlic for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Creamy Paprika Steak Shells as much as I do! This dish brings together tender steak and rich flavors that create a cozy meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Happy cooking!