After a long day, there’s nothing quite like the cozy embrace of a comforting meal. That’s where these Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells come into play. Imagine the rich aroma of seasoned steak sizzling in the skillet, blending with the sweetness of sauteed onions and the warmth of smoked paprika. This dish brings together tender pasta shells and juicy steak strips enveloped in a velvety, creamy sauce, creating an unforgettable dining experience in just over 30 minutes.
I often find myself craving the comforting familiarity of a one-skillet meal during busy weeknights. This recipe not only delivers on flavor but is also incredibly adaptable — swap in chicken or mushrooms to suit your taste preferences. Perfect for impressing guests on special occasions or simply cozying up at home, these smoky steak shells are bound to become a new favorite. Get ready to savor the delightful blend of savory and smoky, all while enjoying a meal that’s as quick as it is satisfying!
Why will you love Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells?
Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just over 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
One-Skillet Wonder: Enjoy the convenience of minimal cleanup without sacrificing flavor or quality.
Versatile Ingredients: Easily switch steak for chicken or mushrooms, accommodating various dietary preferences.
Hearty and Comforting: Experience the silky sauce enveloping tender pasta shells and juicy steak, creating a cozy meal.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Pasta Shells – the base that holds the creamy sauce; feel free to substitute with penne, rigatoni, or fusilli for a different twist.
For the Steak
• Steak (Sirloin or Ribeye) – delivers a juicy flavor and cooks quickly; choose tender cuts for optimal texture; you can substitute with sautéed chicken breast or mushrooms for a lighter version.
For the Sauce
• Olive Oil – essential for searing the steak without sticking; enhances flavor beautifully.
• Onion (1 medium) – adds sweetness and depth to the dish; can be substituted with shallots for a milder taste.
• Garlic (2 cloves) – invigorates the dish with aromatic flavors; reduce the amount for a milder kick.
• Smoked Paprika (1 tbsp) – infuses a rich, smoky flavor; increase the amount for extra heat if desired.
• Salt & Black Pepper – crucial for balancing flavors; adjust to your taste preference.
• Heavy Cream (240 ml) – creates that luscious, creamy sauce texture; substitute with whole milk for a lighter result, although it will be less rich.
• Beef Broth (120 ml) – provides savory depth to the sauce; chicken broth can also be used, but may alter the flavor slightly.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (50 g) – adds creaminess and richness; don’t skip this key ingredient!
For the Garnish
• Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp) – brightens the dish with a pop of color and freshness; a delightful finishing touch that enhances presentation.
Embrace the comfort and warmth of these Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells with this easy-to-follow ingredient list, perfect for your next cozy meal!
How to Make Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells
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Boil the pasta shells in a pot of salted boiling water for about 8-10 minutes or until al dente. Drain and set them aside; they will be the comforting base of your dish.
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Season the steak strips by patting them dry, then coating with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, and sear the steak for 3-4 minutes until it’s browned on the outside. Transfer to a plate.
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Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in the same skillet for about 3 minutes until they’re golden and aromatic, creating a flavorful foundation for your sauce.
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Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream; gently bring to a simmer, scraping any tasty caramelized bits from the skillet. This adds depth to your rich sauce.
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Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese gradually, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce slightly, creating that luxurious, creamy texture you crave.
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Combine the seared steak back into the skillet, making sure to coat it well with the creamy sauce.
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Add the cooked pasta shells, gently folding until everything is combined and heated through, ensuring each shell is filled with delicious sauce.
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Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This step adds a splash of color and a hint of freshness to each plate.
Optional: Serve with a crisp green salad and buttery garlic bread for the perfect balance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness; ensure the dish is completely cooled before sealing.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or cream to the skillet over low heat, stirring gently to restore the creamy consistency.
Freezer: Avoid freezing the Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells, as cream sauces can separate upon thawing, affecting the dish’s texture and flavor.
Airtight Storage: If you have extra sauce or components, store them separately to keep flavors intact; combine just before serving.
Variations & Substitutions for Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells
Feel free to get creative and personalize your dish to make it truly yours!
- Chicken Swap: Substitute steak with sautéed chicken breast for a lighter option that still packs a punch of flavor. Thinly slice the chicken for quicker cooking.
- Mushroom Delight: For a vegetarian twist, replace steak with portobello or shiitake mushrooms, which add an earthy depth and texture to the sauce.
- Whole Wheat Pasta: Opt for whole wheat pasta shells to introduce a nutty flavor and a boost of fiber without compromising the creamy sauce.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta alternatives like rice or quinoa shells to enjoy a hearty meal without the gluten.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra layer of heat, igniting your taste buds with every bite.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs, like thyme or rosemary, to add aromatic layers and elevate the dish’s fragrance. Simply sauté with the onions for maximum flavor.
- Cream Alternatives: For a dairy-free version, swap heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, creating a lighter, yet still creamy sauce.
- Extra Veggies: Amp up the nutrition by tossing in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini, adding vibrancy and color to your creamy pasta.
These variations make it easy to cater to everyone’s preferences while keeping your meal comforting and tasty!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells in advance is an excellent way to save time on hectic weeknights. You can pre-cook the pasta shells and sauté the steak up to 24 hours before serving. Simply cook the shells until al dente, drain, and toss with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking before refrigerating. Sear the steak and allow it to cool before storing it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, reheat the steak in a skillet, then add the sautéed onions, garlic, beef broth, and heavy cream. Mix in the prepped shells and finish with grated Parmesan for a quick, delicious family dinner that tastes just as fresh!
Expert Tips for Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells
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Perfectly Browned Steak: Ensure your steak is well-seared to develop rich flavors. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to achieve that beautiful caramelization.
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Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with whole milk, but be aware it won’t be as rich. Always check for seasoning; creaminess needs balance!
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Flavorful Base: Don’t skip the sautéing step for onions and garlic as it builds a flavorful foundation. Low to medium heat allows for the best aroma without burning.
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Reheat with Care: When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s luscious consistency. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.
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Freezing Warning: Cream-based sauces can separate when frozen, so it’s best to enjoy your Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells fresh!
What to Serve with Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells?
Creating a complete meal with these tender steak shells transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary experience.
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Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing salad balances the richness of the creamy sauce and adds a delightful crunch. Consider a vinaigrette to add zing.
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Buttery Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up every last drop of the delicious sauce, making each bite even more satisfying.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies like bell peppers or zucchini add texture and vibrant colors to your table while enhancing the meal’s wholesome feel.
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Steamed Asparagus: The slight bitterness of asparagus cuts through the creaminess, establishing harmony on your plate while adding a touch of elegance.
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Herbed Couscous: Light and fluffy, couscous infused with fresh herbs offers a lovely contrast, playing well with the smoky flavors of the steak.
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Red Wine: A smooth red, like a Pinot Noir, complements the flavors beautifully, enhancing the comforting experience with every sip.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy chocolate mousse serves as an indulgent finish, contrasting beautifully with the savory main dish.
Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Recipe FAQs
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using pasta shells as they hold the creamy sauce beautifully. However, if you don’t have them on hand, substitutes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work just as well, providing a similar structure and ability to capture the sauce.
How should I store leftovers of Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells?
After your delightful meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish has cooled completely before sealing to keep it fresh.
Can I freeze Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells?
I advise against freezing this dish, as cream-based sauces can separate when thawed, affecting both texture and flavor. If you’re looking to save portions, it’s best to store them in the fridge and enjoy it fresh.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
Very! If you find the sauce has thickened too much, simply add a splash of beef broth or cream while reheating, stirring gently until you achieve the desired consistency. This restores the creamy goodness beautifully.
Can I substitute steak with other proteins?
Absolutely! You can swap steak for sautéed chicken breast or even portobello mushrooms for a lighter or vegetarian version. Just bear in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, especially with chicken, which should be cooked thoroughly.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
For those with dietary restrictions, be sure to check for any allergies related to dairy in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. You can substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream, although it may alter the flavor slightly.
Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells in Just 30 Minutes!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil the pasta shells in a pot of salted boiling water for about 8-10 minutes or until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season the steak strips by patting them dry, then coating with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, and sear the steak for 3-4 minutes until browned. Transfer to a plate.
- Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in the same skillet for about 3 minutes until golden and aromatic.
- Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream; gently bring to a simmer, scraping caramelized bits from the skillet.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese gradually, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce.
- Combine the seared steak back into the skillet, coating it well with the creamy sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta shells, gently folding until everything is combined and heated through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.