Tender steak bites, crisp veggies, and pasta shells tossed in a creamy garlic cheese sauce—this vibrant skillet meal is comfort food at its finest
Introduction: A Skillet That Brings Everyone to the Table
This Cheesy Garlic Steak Shells recipe is a weeknight hero—quick to make, loaded with flavor, and satisfying enough to please even the hungriest crowd. Juicy steak, crisp-tender broccoli, and sweet bell peppers come together with pasta shells in a rich garlic cheese sauce that clings to every bite.
Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something cozy and indulgent, this dish delivers bold flavor and balanced texture in a single pan.
Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s explore what makes this skillet meal so irresistible:
Pasta:
- Medium pasta shells (12 oz)
Perfect for catching sauce and holding flavor.
Tip: Cook al dente for best texture.
Steak:
- Sirloin or ribeye (1 lb, cut into bite-sized pieces)
Juicy and flavorful—sears beautifully.
Optional: Use flank steak or tenderloin for variation.
Aromatics & Seasoning:
- Olive oil (2 tbsp)
For searing the steak. - Butter (3 tbsp)
Adds richness and helps sauté veggies. - Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
Adds bold, savory flavor. - Garlic powder (½ tsp)
Enhances the sauce. - Smoked paprika (½ tsp)
Adds depth and subtle heat. - Salt and black pepper
Essential for seasoning.
Optional: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Vegetables:
- Broccoli florets (1 cup)
Adds crunch and color. - Bell peppers (1 cup, sliced)
Sweet and vibrant—use red, yellow, or orange.
Tip: Cut evenly for uniform cooking.
Sauce:
- Heavy cream (1 cup)
Creates a rich, velvety base. - Mozzarella cheese (¾ cup, shredded)
Melts smoothly and adds gooey texture. - Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated)
Adds sharpness and umami.
Optional: Add cream cheese or gouda for extra richness.
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley
Adds freshness and color.
Optional: Top with crispy onions or toasted breadcrumbs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta shells according to package instructions.
Drain and set aside.
Tip: Toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season steak with:
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic powder
- Smoked paprika
Sear for 4–6 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
Remove and set aside.
Optional: Deglaze pan with a splash of broth or wine.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet:
- Melt butter
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant
- Add broccoli and bell peppers
Cook for 4–5 minutes, until just tender.
Tip: Cover briefly to steam broccoli if needed.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Reduce heat to medium-low.
Stir in:
- Heavy cream
- Mozzarella
- Parmesan
Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Optional: Add a splash of pasta water to loosen sauce.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add:
- Cooked pasta shells
- Seared steak
Toss gently until fully coated in sauce.
Simmer for 1–2 minutes to meld flavors.
Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with:
- Fresh parsley
- Extra parmesan
Serve warm with:
- Garlic bread
- Side salad
- Roasted vegetables
Presentation Tip: Serve in a cast iron skillet or rustic bowl with fresh herbs.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect for:
- Weeknight dinners
- Casual entertaining
- Meal prep
- Comfort food cravings
Pair with:
- Red wine
- Sparkling water with lemon
- Roasted asparagus
Tip: Serve leftovers in wraps or over rice for a second-day twist.
Variations to Try
Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:
Chicken Shells
Swap steak for grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken.
Garlic Lovers
Add roasted garlic to the sauce.
Vegetarian Version
Use mushrooms or tofu instead of steak.
Four-Cheese Sauce
Add gouda, cream cheese, or fontina.
Spicy Kick
Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the sauce.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Make-Ahead: Prep steak and veggies up to 1 day in advance.
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently.
Tip: Reheat with a splash of cream or broth to restore sauce.
Nutrition Notes (Per Serving, ~1 of 4)
- Calories: ~620
- Protein: ~35g
- Carbohydrates: ~40g
- Fat: ~35g
- Sugar: ~4g
- Sodium: ~480mg
- Fiber: ~3g
This dish is:
- High-protein
- Comfort food approved
- Crowd-pleasing
- Perfect for leftovers
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Garlic Steak Shells with Broccoli & Peppers is more than just a skillet dinner—it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and comfort. Whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself, it’s guaranteed to satisfy.