Description
Creamy Steak & Shrimp Pasta Bowl
A decadent, creamy pasta dish that combines juicy steak bites, succulent shrimp, and a velvety sauce for an unforgettable meal!
Ingredients:
For the Steak Bites:
1 lb steak (cut into bite-sized pieces)
Salt and black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
For the Shrimp:
8-10 large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 clove garlic (minced)
1/4 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper
For the Creamy Spaghetti:
8 oz spaghetti
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Cook the Steak Bites
Season the steak pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak bites for 2-3 minutes per side. Add butter and let it melt for extra flavor. Set aside.
Sauté the Shrimp
In the same skillet, heat olive oil and add garlic. Cook until fragrant, then add shrimp, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and tender. Remove and set aside.
Prepare the Creamy Pasta
Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté garlic. Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir and simmer until the sauce thickens. Toss the spaghetti in the sauce until fully coated.
Assemble the Dish
Plate the creamy spaghetti, arrange the steak bites and shrimp on top, and drizzle with the remaining sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Serve warm and enjoy this indulgent, restaurant-quality meal at home!
Step-by-Step Guide
Begin by preparing all ingredients: cut the steak, peel the shrimp, mince the garlic, and grate the Parmesan. Cook the spaghetti to al dente, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water. For the steak, ensure your skillet is very hot before adding the oiled, seasoned pieces. Sear without moving for 2-3 minutes to develop a crust, then flip. Add butter and baste for 30 seconds before removing. For the shrimp, cook them just until opaque and pink; overcooking makes them rubbery. For the sauce, keep the heat on medium-low after adding the cream to prevent curdling. Whisk constantly while slowly adding the Parmesan until fully melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, thin it with a splash of the reserved pasta water.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta bowl immediately while hot and creamy. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce. A glass of full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon complements the steak, while a crisp white like Pinot Grigio pairs well with the shrimp and cream sauce.
How-to Summary
To make Creamy Steak & Shrimp Pasta: 1) Sear seasoned steak bites in a hot skillet with oil and butter. 2) In the same pan, sauté shrimp with garlic and paprika. 3) Cook spaghetti al dente. 4) Create the sauce by simmering butter, garlic, heavy cream, Parmesan, and seasonings. 5) Toss the pasta in the sauce, then top with the steak, shrimp, and garnish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of steak? Yes, ribeye, sirloin, or tenderloin (filet mignon) work best for their tenderness and flavor. Avoid tougher cuts that require long cooking.
How can I prevent the cream sauce from splitting? Keep the heat low to medium-low, add the cheese gradually while whisking, and avoid bringing the sauce to a rolling boil.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? The components are best cooked fresh. However, you can prep the steak and shrimp ahead and reheat them gently just before serving to avoid overcooking.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? For a slightly lighter version, half-and-half can work, but the sauce will be less thick and rich. A roux (butter and flour) can help thicken it.
How do I properly devein shrimp? Use a small, sharp knife to make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp and remove the dark intestinal vein with the tip of the knife or a toothpick.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the skillet when searing the steak, which steams the meat instead of creating a flavorful crust.
- Overcooking the shrimp, making them tough and chewy. They cook quickly and continue to cook off the heat.
- Adding Parmesan cheese to a boiling sauce, which can cause it to clump and become grainy.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan from a canister, which often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
- Not salting the pasta water adequately, which is your only chance to season the pasta itself.
Conclusion
This Creamy Steak & Shrimp Pasta Bowl is a show-stopping meal that brings restaurant luxury to your home kitchen. By mastering the simple techniques of searing protein and building a smooth, decadent sauce, you can create an impressive and deeply satisfying dish. The combination of savory steak, sweet shrimp, and rich Parmesan cream over pasta is truly unbeatable. Follow the tips to avoid common pitfalls, and don’t forget the final garnish of fresh parsley for a bright finish. Enjoy your culinary creation!