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Creamy Paprika Steak Shells

Creamy Paprika Steak Shells: A Cozy Comfort Food Delight

Creamy Paprika Steak Shells is a one-skillet meal that combines tender steak and velvety medium shells in a rich sauce, perfect for a comforting dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces medium shell pasta
For the Steak
  • 1 pound lean steak (Sirloin, Flank, or Ribeye) Slice thin across the grain for tenderness.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Essential for sautéing.
  • 2 tablespoons butter Adds richness; can replace with olive oil.
  • 1 medium onion Diced.
  • 3 cloves garlic Minced.
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika Must for true flavor.
  • 1 cup heavy cream For a creamy texture.
  • 1 cup beef broth or white wine For deglazing.
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan Adds saltiness and richness.
  • to taste salt Essential for seasoning.
  • to taste black pepper Essential for seasoning.
Optional Garnish
  • to taste fresh herbs (Parsley or Thyme) For garnish.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large Skillet
  • colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the medium shell pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced steak in a single layer, cooking for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. Remove and keep warm.
  3. Lower heat to medium, add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft.
  4. Stir in 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika, then pour in 1 cup of beef broth or white wine. Add 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth.
  5. Return the cooked pasta and seared steak to the skillet, tossing everything together. Use reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.
  6. Taste and season with salt and black pepper. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Best paired with a light green salad for balance. Can substitute proteins as desired. This dish can be prepared ahead and combined just before serving.

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