Creamy paprika steak shells

Here’s a rich, comforting Creamy Paprika Steak Shells recipe—tender steak bites in a smoky paprika cream sauce tossed with pasta shells. Perfect for a cozy dinner.

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🥩 Creamy Paprika Steak Shells (Serves 4)

⏱ Time

• Prep: 15 minutes

• Cook: 25 minutes

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Ingredients

Steak

• 1 lb (450 g) sirloin or ribeye, cut into bite-size pieces

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon regular paprika

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt & black pepper to taste

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Pasta & Sauce

• 12 oz (340 g) medium pasta shells

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1½ cups heavy cream

• ½ cup beef broth

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adjust to taste)

• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional but recommended)

• Salt & pepper to taste

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Garnish (Optional)

• Fresh parsley or chives

• Extra Parmesan

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Directions

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1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions until al dente.

3. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

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2. Season & Sear the Steak

1. Toss steak pieces with olive oil, smoked paprika, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

2. Heat a large skillet over high heat.

3. Sear steak in a single layer (work in batches if needed) for 1–2 minutes per side until browned.

4. Remove steak from skillet and set aside (do not overcook).

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3. Make the Creamy Paprika Sauce

1. Reduce heat to medium.

2. Add butter to the same skillet.

3. Sauté onion for 3–4 minutes until soft.

4. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.

5. Stir in smoked paprika and Dijon mustard.

6. Pour in beef broth, scraping up browned bits.

7. Add heavy cream and simmer 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.

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4. Combine

1. Stir in Parmesan until melted.

2. Add cooked pasta shells and toss to coat.

3. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed for creaminess.

4. Return steak to skillet and gently toss.

5. Simmer 1–2 minutes until steak is warmed through.

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5. Serve

• Taste and adjust seasoning.

• Garnish with parsley or chives.

• Serve immediately.

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Tips for Best Flavor

✔ Use smoked paprika for depth
✔ Sear steak hot and fast
✔ Don’t overcook steak when reheating
✔ Pasta shells hold sauce perfectly

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Variations

• Spicy: Add chili flakes or cayenne

• Mushroom Addition: Sauté mushrooms with onions

• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of cream

• Chicken Swap: Replace steak with chicken breast