Creamy Paprika Steak Shells

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Introduction

Creamy Paprika Steak Shells is the ultimate comfort-meets-gourmet dish. Tender steak bites, perfectly seared and coated in smoky paprika, are folded into pasta shells and enveloped in a velvety cream sauce. This recipe brings restaurant-level flavor to your kitchen with simple ingredients and bold seasoning—ideal for weeknight indulgence or an impressive weekend meal.

Ingredients & Quantities (Serves 4)

Pasta & Steak

• 12 oz (340 g) medium pasta shells
• 1 lb (450 g) sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-size pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter

Seasoning

• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp sweet paprika (optional, for depth)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Creamy Sauce

• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup beef broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, but recommended)

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan, for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Boil pasta shells in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Season & Sear the Steak
   Toss steak pieces with smoked paprika, sweet paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
   Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over high heat. Sear steak for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. Build the Flavor Base
   In the same skillet, lower heat to medium. Add onion and sauté until soft and translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Create the Sauce
   Pour in beef broth, scraping up browned bits from the pan. Add cream and Dijon mustard. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Combine Everything
   Stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Add pasta shells and steak back to the pan. Toss gently, adding reserved pasta water if needed for a silky texture.
6. Finish & Serve
   Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.

Description

This dish delivers bold, smoky warmth from paprika balanced by a luxurious cream sauce. The pasta shells cradle every drop of sauce, while the steak remains juicy and deeply flavorful. It’s hearty, satisfying, and irresistibly creamy.

Origin & Cultural Significance

Inspired by Central European paprika-forward dishes—especially Hungarian and Eastern European cuisine—this recipe blends classic paprika seasoning with Italian-style creamy pasta, creating a modern fusion comfort dish.

Optional Additions

• Sautéed mushrooms for extra umami
• A pinch of chili flakes for heat
• Spinach or baby kale stirred in at the end
• A splash of white wine before adding cream

Tips for Success

• Use smoked paprika for depth; it’s the star flavor
• Don’t overcook the steak—quick searing keeps it tender
• Reserve pasta water; it’s key for a smooth sauce
• Let the sauce simmer gently, never boil

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

• Calories: 620
• Protein: 38 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fat: 34 g

Conclusion

Creamy Paprika Steak Shells is the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary meal into a memorable one. It’s cozy, bold, and deeply satisfying—exactly the kind of dish that keeps people coming back for seconds.

Recommendation

Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. A glass of sparkling water with lemon or a light red wine pairs beautifully.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

While indulgent, this dish offers high-quality protein and comforting satisfaction. Enjoy it mindfully, savor every bite, and pair it with fresh sides for balance.