How to Make Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Fast

If you’re craving a rich, comforting meal that’s quick to whip up, look no further than Creamy Paprika Steak Shells. This delightful dish combines tender steak pieces tossed in a luscious, smoky paprika cream sauce and nestled inside perfectly cooked pasta shells. It’s the kind of recipe that feels indulgent yet comes together in record time, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknight dinners or whenever you want a flavorful, hassle-free meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy preparation: Ready from start to finish in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
• Rich, smoky flavor: Paprika adds a vibrant warmth that transforms simple steak into a star dish.
• Creamy comfort: The velvety sauce coats every shell, creating a satisfying texture with every bite.
• Customizable ingredients: Easily swap veggies or adjust spices to suit your taste preferences.
• One-pan cleanup: Minimal mess means more time to relax and enjoy your meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Creamy Paprika Steak Shells lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role in delivering that rich taste and smooth texture, while building layers of flavor that come together effortlessly.

• Steak strips: Use sirloin, ribeye, or your preferred cut, sliced thin for quick cooking and tenderness.
• Large pasta shells: These hold the creamy sauce wonderfully, adding a satisfying bite.
• Smoked paprika: The star spice offering a deep, smoky flavor that defines the dish.
• Heavy cream: Provides the luscious, rich base that clings perfectly to steak and pasta.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic enhances aroma and adds depth to the sauce.
• Onion: Finely chopped for subtle sweetness and texture balance.
• Olive oil: For searing steak and sautéing vegetables without overpowering flavors.
• Salt and pepper: Essential to season and brighten up the entire dish.
• Fresh parsley: Optional garnish that adds a splash of color and fresh herbal note.

Variations for Creamy Paprika Steak Shells

Feel free to adapt this recipe to your personal tastes or dietary needs. The flexible base makes it easy to customize without sacrificing any of the delicious flavor or comfort.

• Vegetarian version: Swap steak for sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a meaty texture without meat.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for those who love a little heat.
• Dairy-free option: Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream to keep it creamy without dairy.
• Herby infusion: Mix in fresh thyme or rosemary during cooking for an extra aromatic boost.
• Cheesy twist: Stir in shredded Parmesan or smoked mozzarella before serving for added cheesiness.

How to Make Creamy Paprika Steak Shells

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking the pasta shells until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water to thin out the sauce if needed.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season steak strips with salt, pepper, and a generous sprinkle of smoked paprika. Cook steak in batches if necessary, searing until browned on the outside but still tender inside, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the steak from the pan and keep warm.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the steak for extra flavor.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Paprika Sauce

Lower heat to medium, then stir in smoked paprika and cook for about 30 seconds to release its smoky aroma. Pour in the heavy cream and stir constantly. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, 4-5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked steak back into the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Fold in the cooked pasta shells, stirring gently to make sure every shell is drenched in the creamy paprika sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Paprika Steak Shells

• Choose tender cuts: Use quick-cooking steak cuts like sirloin or tenderloin for the best texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Sear the steak in batches to maintain that perfect caramelized crust.
• Use smoked paprika: It takes the flavor from ordinary to extraordinary with its deep smokiness.
• Reserve pasta water: It’s a secret trick to help adjust sauce consistency without watering down flavor.
• Fresh herbs matter: Add parsley or chives just before serving to keep the flavors bright and fresh.

How to Serve Creamy Paprika Steak Shells

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, a twist of cracked black pepper, or a dash of smoked paprika on top elevates the look and highlights the smoky flavors.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs perfectly with a crisp side salad or steamed green veggies like asparagus or broccoli for balance and added freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving it in individual shallow bowls topped with a lemon wedge for a pop of brightness or stuff the pasta shells with filling before spooning the sauce over for an impressive twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. Creamy Paprika Steak Shells will keep well for up to 3 days without losing flavor or texture.

Freezing

This dish freezes nicely, though cream-based sauces can sometimes separate. Freeze in a sealed container and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat slowly over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s creamy texture. Avoid high heat to prevent curdling.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While pasta shells are ideal for holding the sauce, penne or rigatoni can work well if you’re out of shells.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Creamy Paprika Steak Shells make a great meal prep option as they reheat beautifully and maintain flavor for several days.

Can I make this dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based cream alternative for a similarly rich texture.

How spicy is the dish?

The paprika adds a smoky warmth but not heat. For a spicier kick, add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to taste.

What’s the best cut of steak to use?

Choose tender, quick-cooking cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin to keep the steak juicy and flavorful without lengthy cooking times.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Paprika Steak Shells bring together bold smoky flavors, tender steak, and a rich, silky sauce in a dish that’s as satisfying as it is fast to prepare. Whether you’re feeding family on a busy night or looking for that special comfort food fix, this recipe delivers every time. Give it a try and soon it will become one of your favorite go-to meals!

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