Oh boy, let me tell you about my *Creamy Cheesy Garlic Steak Pasta Shells with Broccoli & Peppers*! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate. I remember the first time I made it for my family—it was a chilly Wednesday evening, and I wanted something comforting yet quick. In just 30 minutes, we went from hungry to absolutely satisfied! The combination of tender steak, vibrant veggies, and that luscious, creamy sauce is downright irresistible. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up, making it my go-to for busy nights when I want to impress without all the fuss. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll be a staple in your kitchen too!
Ingredients List
To make my *Creamy Cheesy Garlic Steak Pasta Shells with Broccoli & Peppers*, you’ll need the following ingredients. I promise, they come together beautifully to create a comforting meal!
8 oz pasta shells
1 lb steak, sliced (you can use your favorite cut!)
2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen works great)
1 cup bell peppers, sliced (any color you love!)
4 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better)
1 cup heavy cream (for that creamy goodness)
1 cup shredded cheese (any melty cheese will do)
2 tbsp olive oil (to cook that steak to perfection)
Salt and pepper to taste (don’t skip this, it’s important!)
These ingredients are pretty straightforward, and I love that you can easily adjust quantities based on what you have on hand. Now, let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Creamy Cheesy Garlic Steak Pasta Shells with Broccoli & Peppers
Alright, let’s dive into making this delicious dish! It’s easier than you might think, and I promise the results will wow everyone at your table. Here’s how to bring it all together:
First, cook your pasta shells according to the package instructions. Make sure to salt the water well for flavor. They’ll take about 8-10 minutes to cook until they’re al dente. Once done, drain them and set aside.
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large pan over medium heat and drizzle in the olive oil. Let it warm up for a minute or so—this is key for a nice sear on that steak!
Once the oil is shimmering, add your sliced steak to the pan. Cook it for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned. You want that perfect sear, so don’t overcrowd the pan—work in batches if needed!
Next, toss in the minced garlic, broccoli florets, and sliced bell peppers. Sauté everything together for another 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender and vibrant. Oh, the smell is heavenly!
Now, here comes the magic! Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently as you add it. Then, sprinkle in your shredded cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and everything is combined into a creamy dream.
Finally, add those cooked pasta shells into the pan, mixing them thoroughly with the creamy mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste—don’t be shy, this is where the flavor really shines!
Serve it warm and watch as everyone digs in. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
And there you have it! A delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes. Just remember, cooking is all about enjoying the process, so have fun with it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to make: Seriously, you can whip this up in just 30 minutes! Perfect for those busy weeknights.
Flavorful and comforting: The combination of creamy sauce, garlic, and tender steak creates a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Packed with protein and veggies: You’re getting a hearty dose of steak, plus those lovely broccoli and peppers to keep it balanced.
Great for family dinners: This dish is a surefire crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy. It’s perfect for gathering around the table!
Versatile with ingredient substitutions: Don’t have steak? Swap it for chicken or shrimp! Want to add more veggies? Go for it! You can customize it to your taste.
Tips for Success
Now, let me share some of my top tips for making your *Creamy Cheesy Garlic Steak Pasta Shells with Broccoli & Peppers* truly shine. A bit of know-how can take this dish from good to absolutely fantastic!
Cooking the Steak: For the best flavor and tenderness, aim for medium-rare to medium doneness. Keep an eye on it while cooking—overcooked steak can turn tough! Use a meat thermometer if you have one; 130°F to 145°F is your sweet spot.
Getting the Creaminess Just Right: When you add the heavy cream, make sure to bring it to a gentle simmer before adding the cheese. This helps the cheese melt smoothly and prevents clumping. Trust me, nobody wants a chunky sauce!
Timing is Key: While the pasta cooks, focus on prepping your veggies and steak. This multitasking will save you time! Remember, you want the pasta and the sauce to be ready at the same time for the best results.
Seasoning: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper! Taste as you go, especially before serving, and adjust the seasoning to your liking. A little sprinkle of extra salt can really elevate the flavors.
Leftover Love: If you have leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to bring back that luscious creaminess.
Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to making this dish a family favorite. Happy cooking, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
Variations
One of the best things about my *Creamy Cheesy Garlic Steak Pasta Shells with Broccoli & Peppers* is how adaptable it is! You can mix things up to suit your taste buds or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:
Vegetable Medley: Swap out the broccoli and bell peppers for your favorite veggies! Zucchini, spinach, or even asparagus can add a delightful twist. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on how quickly they cook.
Cheese Choices: While I love a good melty cheese, feel free to play around! Try mozzarella for a stretchy, gooey texture, or go bold with sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a kick. Mixing cheeses can create a rich depth of flavor too!
Protein Swaps: Don’t have steak? No problem! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option work beautifully in this dish. Each protein brings its own unique taste and texture.
Herbs and Spices: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of freshness. You can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or a pinch of Italian seasoning to elevate the flavor profile.
Make it Lighter: If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative. Using less cheese or opting for a low-fat variety can keep it delicious yet lower in calories.
These variations not only keep things interesting but can also accommodate different dietary preferences. So get creative and make this dish your own—there are endless possibilities to explore!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious *Creamy Cheesy Garlic Steak Pasta Shells with Broccoli & Peppers* and now you have some leftovers (if you’re lucky)! Here’s how to store and reheat them so they stay just as tasty:
First off, let your pasta cool down to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation in the container, which can make your creamy sauce watery. Once it’s cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to seal it tightly so it doesn’t absorb any other smells from your fridge!
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the dish! Just portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags. It should last in the freezer for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Now, for reheating: I recommend gently warming it on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of cream or milk to bring back that creamy texture—it really makes a difference! Stir occasionally until it’s heated through, and watch out for splatters! You can also microwave it, but I’d suggest doing it in short intervals, stirring in between, to avoid overcooking.
And there you have it! Enjoy your leftovers as much as the first time around! They’re just as comforting and delicious!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about the nutritional breakdown of my *Creamy Cheesy Garlic Steak Pasta Shells with Broccoli & Peppers*! This information is an estimate based on standard ingredients, so keep in mind that actual values may vary depending on specific brands and measurements you use. Here’s what you can expect per serving:
Calories: 550
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 30g
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein, thanks to the steak and cheese, while the veggies add a boost of nutrients. Enjoy this satisfying meal without guilt, knowing you’re feeding your body well!
FAQ Section
I’m so glad you’re curious about my *Creamy Cheesy Garlic Steak Pasta Shells with Broccoli & Peppers*! Let’s tackle some common questions you might have:
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! If you don’t have pasta shells on hand, feel free to swap in any pasta shape you love—penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti works great! Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut milk or a plant-based cream. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture might change a bit, but it’ll still be delicious!
How can I make this dish vegetarian? To make it vegetarian, simply omit the steak and replace it with your favorite protein like tofu or chickpeas. You can also load up on more veggies! Just sauté them until they’re tender and enjoy the creamy goodness.
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can cook everything and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently before serving. However, I recommend adding the pasta just before serving to keep it from getting too soft.
What steak cuts work best for this recipe? I love using ribeye or sirloin for this dish because they’re tender and flavorful. However, you can also use flank steak or even tenderloin if you want something leaner. Just make sure to slice it thinly for the best results!
Got more questions? Don’t hesitate to ask! Cooking is all about experimenting and having fun, so let’s make this dish your own!
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