Creamy Paprika Steak Shells: A Comfort Food Dream Come True

 Creamy Paprika Steak Shells: A Comfort Food Dream Come True

Few dishes deliver the same soul-satisfying joy as a creamy, savory pasta with tender bites of steak. Creamy Paprika Steak Shells is that perfect weeknight indulgence—rich, smoky, and loaded with flavor. This dish brings together seared, juicy steak bites, perfectly cooked pasta shells, and a luxuriously creamy paprika-spiced sauce that coats every bite like a velvet blanket. It's quick enough for a busy evening but decadent enough to impress guests or elevate your Sunday dinner. Once you try this, it’s going into your regular rotation—guaranteed.

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🛒 Ingredients & Their Roles

Each ingredient in this recipe is chosen for maximum flavor and creamy texture. Here's what you'll need and why it's essential:

1 lb steak, cut into bite-sized pieces

The star of the show. Use a tender cut like sirloin, ribeye, or flank for juicy, flavorful bites.

Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Enhances and balances the flavors of both the steak and sauce.

1 tbsp olive oil

Used to sear the steak, creating a flavorful, caramelized crust.

1 tbsp unsalted butter

Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic and paprika smoothly.

3 cloves garlic, minced

Provides a fragrant, savory base for the creamy sauce.

1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

This is the secret weapon. It gives the dish its distinct smoky depth and beautiful warm color.

1 cup heavy cream

The foundation of the sauce, lending a silky, luscious texture.

1/2 cup beef broth

Adds savory umami depth and thins out the cream slightly for perfect consistency.

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Melts into the sauce for a salty, nutty, creamy boost. Use fresh for best results.

8 oz shell pasta

Shells are ideal for holding onto the creamy sauce and catching steak bites in every scoop.

Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Brightens the dish and adds a pop of fresh, herby color.

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🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Creamy Paprika Steak Shells masterpiece:

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Cook shell pasta according to package directions until al dente.

Drain and set aside.

2. Season the Steak

Pat the steak dry and season generously with salt, pepper, and 1 tsp of smoked paprika.

This seasoning forms a flavorful crust when seared.

3. Sear the Steak

In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.

Add steak pieces in a single layer and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your liking.

Remove steak from skillet and set aside.

4. Make the Sauce

Reduce heat to medium, add 1 tbsp butter to the same skillet.

Stir in minced garlic and the remaining 1/2 tsp smoked paprika. Cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and 1/2 cup beef broth. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.

5. Melt in the Cheese

Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until fully melted and the sauce is creamy.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

6. Combine & Finish

Return the cooked pasta shells and steak bites to the skillet.

Toss gently to coat everything in the luscious sauce.

Let it warm through for 1–2 minutes.

7. Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley.

Serve hot and enjoy the melty, creamy goodness in every bite.

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💡 Why This Recipe Is Loved

One-pan magic: After the pasta is cooked, everything comes together in one skillet—easy cleanup!

Big flavor in 30 minutes: Thanks to the smoked paprika, garlic, and seared steak, this dish delivers gourmet flavor in half an hour.

Perfectly balanced: Creamy, savory, a hint smoky, and loaded with protein and carbs for a satisfying meal.

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👨‍🍳 Pro Tips for Perfection

Sear in batches if your pan is small. Overcrowding the skillet will steam the steak instead of searing it.

Use fresh Parmesan, not pre-grated. It melts better and has superior flavor.

Don't overcook the pasta—it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the sauce.

Let the steak rest for a few minutes after searing to lock in juices before combining.

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🥗 Serving Suggestions

Pair your Creamy Paprika Steak Shells with:

A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut the richness.

Garlic bread or buttery rolls for a classic, comforting side.

A glass of bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec to complement the smoky steak.

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🔥 Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Weeknight Winner

Creamy Paprika Steak Shells is the kind of recipe that wins hearts—simple to make, big on flavor, and endlessly comforting. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving something rich and satisfying, this dish checks every box.

With minimal prep, pantry-friendly ingredients, and a gourmet taste, this recipe isn’t just easy—it’s unforgettable. Add it to your recipe book, pin it to your weeknight meal board, and get ready to fall in love.

> ⭐️ Try it once, and you'll be making it again and

 again. Save this recipe now—you won’t want to lose it!

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