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Spicy Cajun Steak Bites with Cheesy Shells

Spicy Cajun Steak Bites with Cheesy Shells for Quick Comfort

A quick and flavor-packed recipe for Spicy Cajun Steak Bites with Cheesy Shells that offers comfort in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Steak
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning Provides a flavorful kick; try Italian seasoning for a milder flavor.
  • 1 pound Steak (Sirloin or Ribeye) Use tender cuts for best texture; can substitute chicken, shrimp, or firm tofu.
For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Medium Pasta Shells Acts as a perfect vehicle for the creamy sauce; fusilli or penne work well too.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Adds richness; substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Melts beautifully and adds flavor; feel free to mix with other cheeses.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Enhances the overall flavor profile of the sauce.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic infuses aromatic flavor; do not skip this ingredient!
For Seasoning
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, toss your steak bites with Cajun seasoning, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let the steak marinate for at least 10 minutes.
  2. Boil a large pot of salted water over high heat, then add the medium pasta shells. Cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the shells in a colander and set them aside.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of cooking oil. Add the marinated steak bites in a single layer. Sear the steak for about 3-4 minutes, until they achieve a deep, caramelized color on one side before flipping. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until browned and just cooked through.
  4. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then slowly pour in the heavy cream, scraping the bottom of the skillet. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Keep stirring until the cheeses melt completely, creating a creamy sauce.
  6. Return the seared steak bites and cooked pasta shells back into the skillet, tossing gently to coat everything in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 500mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or pasta water to restore creaminess.

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