Creamy Paprika Steak Pasta Recipe

Welcome to a culinary delight that will elevate your weeknight dinner game – Creamy Paprika Steak Shells! This recipe is a perfect harmony of juicy steak, pasta shells, and a luxurious paprika cream sauce that will have your taste buds singing with joy. With just the right balance of flavors and textures, these creamy paprika steak shells are sure to become a family favorite in no time.

Picture this – succulent strips of steak seared to perfection, enveloped in a velvety paprika-infused cream sauce that clings to each pasta shell, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and bold flavors, making it an ideal choice for those nights when you want to impress with minimal effort. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe guarantees a satisfying and memorable dining experience.

Indulge in the nostalgia of rich, smoky paprika aromas that will transport you back to cherished family kitchens and comforting meals. With its roots in European culinary traditions and a Spanish-inspired twist, these creamy paprika steak shells offer a delicious fusion of flavors that is both familiar and exciting. So, grab your ingredients, get ready to savor every mouthful of this delightful dish, and watch it become a staple on your dining table all year round.

Quick Benefits

• Juicy and flavorful steak strips make this dish a hearty and satisfying meal option.
• The creamy paprika sauce adds a rich and smoky flavor with a hint of heat that elevates the overall taste.
• Versatile recipe allows for ingredient substitutions like chicken or mushrooms, making it adaptable to different dietary preferences.
• Easy to prepare in advance and reheat, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Paprika Steak Pasta Recipe Recipe

• Bold Flavor: The combination of juicy steak strips, smoked paprika, and creamy sauce creates a dish bursting with bold and comforting flavors.
• Easy Weeknight Meal: Impress your family or guests with minimal effort and dishes required, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
• Nostalgic Aroma: The aroma of smoked paprika in the sauce evokes memories of home-cooked meals, adding a touch of nostalgia to your dining experience.
• Versatile: Swap steak for chicken or mushrooms for a lighter or vegetarian option, making it adaptable to different dietary preferences.
• Make-ahead Friendly: Prepare components in advance and simply reheat with a splash of broth or cream before serving, perfect for meal prepping.
• European Twist: While pasta with creamy beef sauces is a classic in European kitchens, the smoky paprika twist gives this dish a unique Spanish-inspired flavor.
• Satisfying Comfort Food: Enjoy a piping hot bowl of creamy steak shells for a simple, smoky, and comforting meal that will have you craving it all year long.

Ingredients for Creamy Paprika Steak Pasta Recipe

Main Components

• 450 g steak, sliced into thin strips
• 340 g pasta shells

Aromatics and Seasonings

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Black pepper, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced

Sauce and Garnish

• 50 g grated Parmesan cheese
• 240 ml heavy cream
• 120 ml beef broth
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Pro Tips for Creamy Paprika Steak Pasta Recipe

Pro Tip #1: To ensure juicy and tender steak strips, opt for a tender cut like sirloin or ribeye. Sear the steak quickly over high heat to lock in the juices and prevent it from becoming tough.

Pro Tip #2: Don’t limit yourself to pasta shells; penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work well too, as their shapes hold the creamy sauce perfectly. Experiment with different pasta shapes to find your favorite.

Pro Tip #3: Feel free to prepare the components of this dish ahead of time for a convenient meal prep. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce and keep it creamy. Serve the creamy paprika steak shells with a side of fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to balance out the richness of the dish.

How to Make Creamy Paprika Steak Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta shells until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Dry steak strips and season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear steak for 3-4 minutes until browned. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic for approximately 3 minutes until fragrant and softened.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

Add beef broth and heavy cream to the skillet. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring to incorporate any caramelized bits.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Add grated Parmesan cheese slowly while stirring to thicken the sauce.

Step 6: Combine Steak and Sauce

Add the reserved steak back to the skillet and coat the strips evenly in the creamy sauce by tossing them.

Step 7: Finish with Pasta

Combine the cooked pasta shells with the sauce in the skillet, folding gently to heat through and ensure the shells are evenly coated.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish and serve hot.

Storage Tips

After enjoying your delicious Creamy Paprika Steak Shells, any leftovers should be cooled completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish can be safely stored for up to three days. To reheat, simply add a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce and bring back its creamy texture. Although it is best to avoid freezing the dish due to potential separation of the cream sauce, if needed, you can freeze it. Upon reheating from frozen, gently warming the dish on the stovetop can help bring it back to a texture close to fresh.

If you are looking to customize this dish further, you can swap the steak for chicken breast or portobello mushrooms for a lighter or vegetarian option. Additionally, if pasta shells are not available, short pastas like penne or rotini can be used as substitutes. If beef broth is unavailable, chicken broth can be a great alternative, just be mindful of salt levels. To elevate the dish further, consider serving the Creamy Paprika Steak Shells with a crisp green salad and buttery garlic bread, sprinkled with extra Parmesan and red pepper flakes for added flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a lighter option, you can easily substitute the steak with sautéed chicken breast or strips of portobello mushrooms. Both options will work well with the creamy paprika sauce and provide a delicious alternative for those looking to reduce the meat content of the dish.

Feel free to use penne, rigatoni, or fusilli pasta if you don’t have shells on hand. These pasta shapes will also hold the creamy sauce beautifully and ensure a satisfying meal. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose.

If you want to enhance the smoky flavor or add more heat to the dish, you can increase the amount of smoked paprika used in the recipe. Adjust the quantity according to your preference to customize the flavor profile to suit your taste buds.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative twist, serve the creamy paprika steak shells in individual baked pasta shells for an elegant presentation that’s perfect for a dinner party. Fill each shell with a generous amount of the creamy steak mixture, sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden on top. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

Another fun serving suggestion is to turn this dish into a pasta bake by transferring the creamy paprika steak mixture into a casserole dish, topping it with a layer of buttery breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese, and baking until the top is crispy and golden. This comforting and indulgent pasta bake is sure to be a hit with your family and friends, especially when served alongside a crisp green salad and garlic bread.

FAQs for Creamy Paprika Steak Pasta Recipe

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of shells?

Yes, penne, rigatoni, or fusilli also pair well, as their shapes trap the creamy sauce beautifully.

Can I add more smoked paprika for extra flavor?

Yes, the smoked paprika adds deep, smoky flavor with mild heat; feel free to add extra for more kick.

Is it possible to prepare the dish components in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare all components in advance. Gently reheat with a splash of broth or cream before serving.

What are some side dishes that go well with creamy paprika steak shells?

Fresh green salads, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread complement the richness of this hearty meal.

Conclusion

In every bite of these Creamy Paprika Steak Shells, you taste the warmth of home-cooked goodness and the richness of a comforting meal. The blend of tender steak, paprika-infused cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta shells creates a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds dance with delight. So go ahead, indulge in this cozy dish and savor each mouthful, knowing that you’ve created something truly special for yourself and your loved ones.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a delicious meal, these Creamy Paprika Steak Shells are sure to hit the spot. With a hint of nostalgia from the smoked paprika and a whole lot of love in every bite, this dish is bound to become a favorite at your dinner table. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and let the magic of this recipe transport you to a place of culinary bliss. Cheers to good food, good company, and the joy of sharing delicious meals like these Creamy Paprika Steak Shells with the ones you hold dear.