Creamy Paprika Steak Shells: A Bold, Comforting Pasta Dinner

Introduction

Creamy Paprika Steak Shells is the kind of dish that feels restaurant-worthy yet completely achievable at home. Tender slices of steak, coated in smoky paprika and folded into a rich, creamy sauce, pair beautifully with pasta shells that capture every bit of flavor. The first time I made this recipe, I was surprised by how quickly it came together while still tasting deeply layered and indulgent. It instantly became a go-to when I wanted something hearty but a little different from the usual pasta routine.

What truly defines this dish is the paprika. It adds warmth, subtle smokiness, and depth without overpowering the creaminess of the sauce. I once tried this recipe with smoked paprika instead of sweet paprika, and the result was even more robust and satisfying. This pasta works well for busy weeknights, but it is also impressive enough to serve when guests are over. It is filling, comforting, and full of bold flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines tender steak with a creamy, paprika-infused sauce that clings perfectly to pasta shells. It is quick to prepare, deeply flavorful, and easy to customize. The balance of spice, creaminess, and savory beef makes it a satisfying all-in-one meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Steak is the star protein of this dish. Sirloin or ribeye works especially well, offering tenderness and rich beef flavor when cooked quickly over high heat.

Pasta shells are ideal for holding the creamy sauce. Their curved shape traps the paprika-infused cream, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Butter provides richness and forms the base of the sauce. It adds depth and helps carry the spices throughout the dish.

Garlic enhances the savory profile. Finely minced garlic infuses the sauce with aroma without overpowering the steak.

Paprika is the defining spice. Sweet or smoked paprika adds warmth, color, and subtle complexity to the sauce.

Heavy cream creates the luxurious texture of the dish. It balances the paprika and coats the pasta smoothly.

Parmesan cheese adds saltiness and depth. It melts into the sauce, thickening it slightly while enhancing flavor.

Olive oil is used to sear the steak. It helps achieve a flavorful crust without sticking.

Salt and black pepper season the dish and bring all the components together.

Directions

Start by cooking the pasta shells in salted water until al dente. Reserve a small amount of pasta water before draining.

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear the steak quickly on both sides until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.

In the same skillet, reduce the heat and add butter. Once melted, stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Sprinkle in additional paprika and stir to release its aroma.

Pour in the cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens slightly. If needed, loosen the sauce with a splash of reserved pasta water.

Add the cooked pasta shells and sliced steak to the sauce. Toss gently until everything is well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 25 minutes, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or water to restore the sauce’s texture.

Variations and Customizations

Creamy Paprika Steak Shells can be adapted in several ways to suit your taste. For extra heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or hot paprika. This creates a subtle kick that pairs well with the creamy sauce.

If you prefer a lighter version, substitute part of the cream with milk or broth. The sauce will be less rich but still flavorful. I have also tried this recipe using chicken instead of steak, and it worked surprisingly well while maintaining the paprika-forward profile.

Vegetables such as mushrooms or spinach can be added to the sauce for extra texture and nutrition. Mushrooms, in particular, complement the steak and absorb the paprika flavor beautifully.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This dish is high in protein and provides sustained energy from both pasta and steak. It is rich due to the cream and cheese, making it best enjoyed as a satisfying main course. Portion control can help keep it balanced within a varied diet.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Perfect Steak
Cook the steak quickly over high heat and let it rest before slicing to keep it tender.

Balanced Spice
Taste the paprika before using it, as some varieties are stronger than others.

Silky Sauce
Add pasta water gradually to achieve the perfect sauce consistency.

FAQs

What cut of steak works best?

Sirloin and ribeye are both excellent choices for tenderness and flavor.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, penne or rigatoni also work well with the creamy sauce.

Is smoked paprika better than sweet?

Both work well; smoked paprika adds a deeper, smoky flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It is best served fresh, but leftovers reheat well with added liquid.

Can I make it spicy?

Yes, add chili flakes or hot paprika for heat.

Does this freeze well?

Cream-based sauces do not freeze well, so freezing is not recommended.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich.

What cheese can replace Parmesan?

Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are good alternatives.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers work well.

How do I prevent the sauce from splitting?

Keep the heat low once the cream is added and avoid boiling.

Conclusion

Creamy Paprika Steak Shells is a bold, comforting pasta dish that combines tender beef with a rich, spiced cream sauce. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it is a satisfying recipe that feels indulgent without being complicated. Once you try it, it is sure to become a regular feature in your dinner rotation.

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