Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Rich is the cozy, savory dinner you didn’t know you needed. With tender steak pieces, bold paprika flavor, and a luscious cream sauce enveloping shell pasta, this dish delivers rich comfort in every bite.
Hi, I’m Jack welcome to my kitchen! I’m the recipe developer, food enthusiast, and heart behind Cooks Foody. This blog was born from my passion for cooking and the joy it brings when people gather around the table. I know how it feels to be tired after work and unsure what to cook. That’s why this one-pan creamy paprika steak shells recipe is a game-changer. It’s easy, flavorful, and made with simple ingredients.
In this post, you’ll learn:
- Why this creamy steak dish works so well
- How to choose the best steak for pasta
- Prep and cooking tips
- Flavor variations and serving ideas
Why This Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Rich Recipe Works
- ✅ Uses affordable, easy-to-find cuts of steak
- ✅ Marinate in 15 minutes for maximum tenderness
- ✅ Perfect for weeknights or weekend feasts
- ✅ Rich, creamy sauce with bold spice
Choosing the Right Meat for Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Rich
Best Cuts for This Recipe
- Sirloin Lean, tender, and flavorful
- Flat iron steak Affordable and well-marbled
- Flank steak Sliced thin, it adds bold beefy flavor
Buying Tips
- Look for steak with a bright red color and light marbling
- Ask your butcher to slice it thin for faster cooking
Substitutions
- Use boneless chicken thighs if steak is unavailable
- Swap in portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian version
Ingredients & Prep for Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Rich
Meat Prep Essentials
- Trim excess fat and slice against the grain
- Pat steak dry and marinate with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper
Marinades/Rubs (Paprika Cream Base)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper
- Marinate for 15–20 minutes
Pantry Staples
- Olive oil, butter, garlic
- Heavy cream
- Onion
- Shell pasta
- Parmesan (optional)
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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Rich
Pre-Cooking Prep for Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Rich
- Cook shell pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside
- Bring steak to room temp, pat dry, and season well
Cooking Method for Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Rich
- In a skillet, sear steak slices for 2–3 minutes per side until browned, then remove
- In the same pan, sauté garlic and onion in butter
- Add cream, paprika, and pasta, then stir in steak
- Simmer until sauce thickens and coats pasta
Doneness Check for Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Rich
- Steak should be cooked to medium (145°F internal temp)
- Sauce should gently bubble and coat a spoon
Resting Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Rich
- Let steak rest for 3 minutes before slicing and mixing into pasta fully
Pro Tips for Perfect Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Rich
Avoiding Tough/Dry Meat in Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Rich
- Don’t overcook the steak
- Slice against the grain to keep it tender
Tool Recommendations for Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Rich
- Cast-iron skillet
- Pasta pot with strainer
- Instant-read thermometer
Storage & Reheating for Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Rich
- Store in an airtight container up to 3 days
- Reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of cream or broth
Flavor Variations for Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Rich
| Variation | Ingredients Added | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spicy Twist | Chili flakes, chipotle, or hot paprika | Adds a smoky heat |
| Dairy-Free | Coconut cream or oat cream | Swap cream and butter for non-dairy alternatives |
| Global Fusion | Add curry spices or turmeric | Brings Indian-inspired warmth |
| Mediterranean | Add sun-dried tomatoes, spinach | Adds brightness and flavor complexity |
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Rich
- Serve with roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad
- Try with warm naan or crusty bread
- Best paired with sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea
FAQs for Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Rich
Can I use frozen steak?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
How do I fix overcooked steak?
Slice thinly and stir into sauce to rehydrate slightly.
Is this recipe safe for pregnant women?
Yes, as long as the steak is cooked to safe temperatures and cream is pasteurized.
Conclusion
Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Rich is your new go-to dinner for cozy nights. It’s rich, bold, and satisfying with minimal effort.
Print
Creamy Paprika Steak Shells 1 Bold & Easy Comfort Meal
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Rich is a one-pan comfort meal made with tender steak, shell pasta, and a bold paprika cream sauce.
Ingredients
8 oz shell pasta
1/2 lb sirloin steak, thinly sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 small onion, diced
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook shell pasta until al dente; drain and set aside.
2. Marinate steak in olive oil, paprika, garlic, salt & pepper for 15 mins.
3. Heat skillet; sear steak for 2–3 mins per side; set aside.
4. Sauté onion in butter until soft.
5. Add cream and bring to a simmer.
6. Return steak to pan, add pasta, and stir.
7. Simmer until sauce thickens and coats pasta.
8. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Notes
Use chicken or mushrooms for variations.
Add chili flakes for extra heat.
Reheat with extra splash of cream to maintain texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Rich, steak pasta, easy dinner