Creamy Paprika Steak Shells (Print-Friendly Version)

Tender steak and pasta shells coated in a rich paprika cream sauce, ideal for cozy dinners and quick meals.

# Ingredients You’ll Need:

→ Main Components

01 - 12 ounces medium pasta shells
02 - 1 pound beef steak, sirloin or thinly sliced, cut into bite-sized strips

→ Sauce and Aromatics

03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
04 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
07 - 1 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
09 - 1 cup beef broth, low sodium
10 - 1 cup heavy cream
11 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
12 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Garnish

13 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

# How to Make It:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef steak strips, season with salt and black pepper, and sear until well browned on all sides. Remove steak from the skillet and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
04 - Stir in smoked paprika, then pour in the beef broth. Bring to a gentle simmer and let the liquid reduce for approximately 5 minutes.
05 - Lower the heat and incorporate heavy cream. Allow to simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly thickened.
06 - Add shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan. Stir continuously until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
07 - Return cooked pasta shells and seared steak to the skillet. Mix well until all components are coated with the creamy paprika sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
08 - Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately while hot.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - For optimal texture, avoid overcooking the pasta shells; they should remain slightly firm to absorb the sauce.