Here’s a complete and well-structured recipe for Creamy Paprika Steak Shells — a hearty, flavorful pasta dish featuring tender steak, a creamy paprika-infused sauce, and pasta shells to soak it all up.

Creamy Paprika Steak Shells

Overview

This rich and comforting dish combines seared steak strips with creamy paprika sauce and shell pasta. Perfect for a cozy dinner with a touch of elegance.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz medium pasta shells
• Salt (for pasta water)

For the Steak:

• 1 lb flank steak or sirloin (thinly sliced across the grain)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Paprika Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1–1½ teaspoons smoked paprika (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh parsley (chopped)
• Extra grated Parmesan

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente.
• Drain and set aside. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water.

2. Cook the Steak

• In a bowl, toss the steak slices with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Sear the steak for 2–3 minutes per side or until just cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce

• In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
• Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
• Sprinkle in flour and cook for another minute, whisking constantly.
• Slowly pour in the beef broth while whisking to remove lumps.
• Add heavy cream, tomato paste, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
• Simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring often, until sauce thickens slightly.
• Stir in grated Parmesan. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

4. Combine Everything

• Add the cooked pasta shells to the sauce and stir to coat.
• Return the steak to the pan and toss to combine.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.

5. Serve

• Spoon into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
• Serve immediately while hot.

Tips

• Use smoked paprika for a deeper flavor; regular paprika will work but is milder.
• Don’t overcook the steak—keep it tender by searing quickly over high heat.
• Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra texture and nutrients.

Would you like a version of this using chicken or a vegetarian alternative?