That sounds delicious—creamy paprika steak shells is a rich, comforting pasta dish with tender steak, smoky paprika flavor, and a creamy sauce coating shell pasta. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step version you can follow 👇
🥩 Creamy Paprika Steak Shells (Detailed Recipe)
🧾 Ingredients
For the steak:
- 300–400g steak (sirloin or ribeye works best)
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked paprika gives the best flavor)
- Salt & black pepper
- 1 tbsp oil or butter
For the pasta:
- 250g pasta shells
- Water + salt for boiling
For the creamy sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3–4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1 tsp paprika (again for depth)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: chili flakes for heat
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Boil salted water and cook the pasta shells until al dente.
- Drain and set aside (save a little pasta water).
2. Cook the Steak
- Season steak with paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat oil/butter in a pan on high heat.
- Sear steak for 2–4 minutes per side (depending on thickness).
- Remove, rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.
💡 Resting keeps the steak juicy.
3. Make the Creamy Paprika Sauce
- In the same pan, melt butter.
- Add onions → cook until soft.
- Add garlic → cook for 30–60 seconds.
- Stir in paprika (this releases its flavor).
- Pour in cream + milk → simmer gently.
4. Build the Sauce
- Add parmesan cheese → stir until melted.
- Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes if you want spice.
- If too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
5. Combine Everything
- Add cooked pasta shells into the sauce.
- Toss to coat evenly.
- Add sliced steak on top or mix it in.
🍽️ Serving Tips
- Garnish with parsley or extra parmesan.
- Serve hot—this dish is best fresh and creamy.
🔥 Flavor Profile
- Smoky from paprika
- Rich & creamy from the sauce
- Savory & juicy from the steak
💡 Pro Tips
- Use smoked paprika instead of regular for restaurant-level flavor.
- Don’t overcook steak—it should stay tender.
- Add mushrooms or spinach for extra texture and nutrition.
If you want, I can also show you a one-pan version (less dishes, same taste) or a spicy desi-style variation that fits Pakistani flavors 🔥
