Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells

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Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this mouthwatering combo: juicy garlic butter steak bites paired with creamy chipotle white cheddar shells. It’s a bold and cozy dinner that comes together surprisingly fast, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you still want something indulgent.

The steak bites are seared to golden perfection and tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, while the pasta brings smoky heat and velvety cheese to the plate. Together, they strike the perfect balance of richness and spice.

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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells

This dish is a flavor bomb. You get tender, flavorful bites of steak, creamy pasta loaded with sharp white cheddar, and the warming kick of chipotle—all in one meal. It’s an easy yet impressive recipe that hits the spot whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining.

You’ll also love how adaptable it is. Switch up the pasta shape, dial the heat up or down, or even add veggies like roasted broccoli for a twist. It’s comfort food you can personalize.

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What Cut of Steak Works Best for Steak Bites?

For ultra-tender steak bites, go with cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or strip steak. These cuts offer the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness without needing a long marinade. Just be sure to cut them into even pieces so they cook evenly and quickly.

Avoid tougher cuts like chuck or round—they’re better suited for slow cooking. Stick with tender cuts and let the garlic butter do the heavy lifting when it comes to flavor.

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Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells

To create this crave-worthy meal, you’ll need a few flavorful ingredients that work beautifully together. Each one brings something special to the plate, from creaminess to heat to rich savory notes.

• Steak (sirloin or ribeye): This is the star of the dish, offering juicy, flavorful bites that sear beautifully.
• Butter: Essential for the garlic butter sauce, giving it richness and depth.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the steak with bold, aromatic flavor.
• Shell pasta: Perfect for holding onto all that luscious cheese sauce.
• White cheddar cheese: Sharp and creamy, it’s the base of the cheese sauce.
• Chipotle peppers in adobo: Adds smoky heat and complexity to the pasta.
• Heavy cream: Makes the cheese sauce ultra smooth and indulgent.
• Salt and pepper: Enhances every flavor in both components.
• Olive oil: Helps get a perfect sear on the steak.

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How To Make the Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells

Step 1: Sear the Steak Bites

Cut your steak into bite-sized cubes. Heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat, then add the steak in batches to avoid crowding. Sear until browned and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Return the steak to the pan and toss to coat in the garlic butter. Set aside.

Step 3: Boil the Pasta

Cook the shell pasta in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Chipotle White Cheddar Sauce

In a saucepan, heat heavy cream until just simmering. Stir in shredded white cheddar until melted and smooth. Blend in minced chipotle peppers to taste.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked pasta with the chipotle cheddar sauce until well coated. Serve alongside the garlic butter steak bites, or plate them together in a bowl for the ultimate comfort dish.

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Serving and Storing Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells

This dish is hearty enough to feed 4 hungry people generously. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or dishing it up for guests, it hits all the right notes of creamy, savory, and spicy.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the pasta with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce, and warm the steak bites gently on the stove or in the microwave to retain their tenderness.

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What to Serve With Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells

Roasted Broccoli

A simple veggie side balances the richness of the dish with some crispy, nutty notes.

Garlic Bread

Double down on the garlic goodness and use it to soak up any leftover sauce.

Side Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette

Bright, tangy greens add freshness and cut through the creamy and buttery components.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Adds sweet smokiness and pairs wonderfully with the chipotle flavor in the shells.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy and savory, they complement the steak beautifully.

Pickled Jalapeños

If you love heat, a few on the side can amplify the chipotle kick.

Crisp Apple Slaw

Adds crunch and a little sweetness to balance the spice.

Sparkling Water or Light Red Wine

A refreshing drink rounds out the meal without overpowering the flavors.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cheese instead of white cheddar?

Yes! While white cheddar gives a sharp, tangy flavor, you can use Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a blend of cheeses to switch things up.

What if I don’t have chipotle peppers?

You can substitute chipotle powder or smoked paprika for a milder smoky flavor. Adjust the amount to your taste.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild to moderate heat, depending on how much chipotle you use. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a small amount and taste as you go.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep components like the garlic butter steak and cheese sauce ahead, but for the best texture, combine everything just before serving.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, just use your favorite gluten-free shell pasta. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra chipotle or tone it down? Did you sneak in any veggies?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated dinner ideas and spicy comfort foods on Tanya Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite meal!

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Conclusion

Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells deliver the ultimate dinner comfort—bold, rich, and satisfying in every bite. This recipe is perfect for when you want something a little indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen. Simple ingredients, big flavors, and a meal your whole table will talk about.

Make it tonight, and you might just have a new weekly favorite.

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