Creamy paprika steak shells

Here’s a rich and cozy recipe for Creamy Paprika Steak Shells — tender bites of steak tossed with pasta in a smoky paprika cream sauce. It’s a one-pan (or one-pot) comfort food dish that’s quick enough for a weeknight but indulgent enough for a special meal.

🥘 Creamy Paprika Steak Shells

🍽️ Serves: 4

🕒 Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 25 min

👨‍🍳 One-pan or two-pan option

🧾 Ingredients:

For the Steak:

• 1 lb (450g) sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced or cut into bite-size strips

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter, for searing

For the Sauce & Pasta:

• 8 oz (about 2 1/2 cups) medium pasta shells

• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp smoked paprika (or sweet paprika, to taste)

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, for garnish

👨‍🍳 Instructions:

🔹 1. Cook Pasta

• Cook pasta shells in salted water until al dente, drain, and set aside.
  (Save 1/2 cup pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce.)

One-pan option: You can cook the pasta directly in the sauce with extra broth (see below).

🔹 2. Season and Sear Steak

• Season steak pieces with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

• Heat oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

• Sear steak in batches until just browned (don’t overcook). Remove and set aside.

🔹 3. Make the Creamy Sauce

• In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté 30 seconds.

• Stir in tomato paste, paprika, onion powder, and chili flakes. Cook 1 min.

• Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer.

• Reduce heat and stir in cream and Parmesan.

• Let simmer gently 3–5 minutes until thickened slightly.

🔹 4. Combine Everything

• Add cooked pasta and steak to the sauce.

• Toss to coat. Simmer 2–3 more minutes, adding a splash of pasta water or broth if needed.

• Adjust seasoning to taste.

🔹 5. Garnish & Serve

• Top with more Parmesan and chopped parsley.

• Serve hot with crusty bread or a simple salad.

🔁 Variations:

• Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor.

• Swap steak for ground beef, chicken, or even mushroom medley for a vegetarian version.

• Want it smokier? Add a pinch of chipotle powder or a few drops of liquid smoke.