Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells The Ultimate Comfort Dish

There’s something deeply comforting about a dish that wraps smoky, creamy flavors around tender steak and cozy pasta shells—what I fondly call my Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Comfort Dish. It’s the kind of meal that takes me right back to the kitchen table where Mama Lou would serve her soul-warming dishes, her eyes twinkling as she watched us savor every bite. This dish carries that same warmth, a perfect blend of rich creaminess and smoky paprika that’s just irresistible. Whether I’m cooking for a busy weeknight or a slow Sunday gathering with my sister Ouma, this recipe always feels like a hug from home.

Why You’ll Love This Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Comfort Dish

What truly makes this Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Comfort Dish stand out is how it balances hearty, smoky steak with luscious cream and a hint of paprika’s earthiness. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to prepare, which reminds me of Mama Lou’s magic in the kitchen—turning humble ingredients into unforgettable meals.

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves layered flavors with a creamy texture, yet also appreciates a bit of smoky depth. The tender steak pieces nestled inside pasta shells soak up the sauce beautifully, making every bite a burst of comforting goodness. I often think of my sister Ouma when I make this dish because she’s the one who introduced me to paprika’s smoky charm years ago, and it’s become our little secret for elevating simple dinners.

It’s also versatile—whether you’re cooking for family or friends, or even treating yourself after a long day, this dish hits that sweet spot between feel-good comfort food and a touch of elegance. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some protein and veggies without sacrificing flavor or warmth.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Comfort Dish

• 12 ounces medium pasta shells
• 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized strips
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Optional substitution: For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free twist.
• Optional substitution: Use chicken breast instead of steak for a milder flavor.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 550 per serving
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 420mg

Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells The Ultimate Comfort Dish

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Learn how to make delicious Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Comfort Dish. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

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• 12 ounces medium pasta shells
• 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized strips
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Optional substitution: For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free twist.
• Optional substitution: Use chicken breast instead of steak for a milder flavor.

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. While pasta cooks, season the steak strips generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. This seasoning step reminds me of Mama Lou’s insistence on seasoning early and well—it’s her secret for deep flavor.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak strips in a single layer and sear until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. Remove steak from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter, then sauté onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes. I always think of my sister Ouma here—she taught me how important it is to let onions sweat gently for that sweet flavor.
5. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until softened and browned, about 5 minutes. The mushrooms bring an earthiness that perfectly complements the smoky steak.
6. Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, scraping the skillet bottom to loosen any browned bits. Let simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
7. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth, then season the sauce with additional smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
8. Return the cooked steak strips to the skillet, stirring gently to coat them in the creamy sauce. Let everything warm through for 2 minutes.
9. Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet and toss gently to combine with the steak and sauce, ensuring each shell is generously coated.
10. Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately. I love how this final touch reminds me of Mama Lou’s table—always bright with fresh herbs and love.

See also  Pasta Casseroles That Warm the Heart – 5-Star Family Favorite

• Author: Jenny
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: International

Steps to Create Your Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Comfort Dish

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. While pasta cooks, season the steak strips generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. This seasoning step reminds me of Mama Lou’s insistence on seasoning early and well—it’s her secret for deep flavor.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak strips in a single layer and sear until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. Remove steak from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter, then sauté onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes. I always think of my sister Ouma here—she taught me how important it is to let onions sweat gently for that sweet flavor.
5. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until softened and browned, about 5 minutes. The mushrooms bring an earthiness that perfectly complements the smoky steak.
6. Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, scraping the skillet bottom to loosen any browned bits. Let simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
7. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth, then season the sauce with additional smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
8. Return the cooked steak strips to the skillet, stirring gently to coat them in the creamy sauce. Let everything warm through for 2 minutes.
9. Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet and toss gently to combine with the steak and sauce, ensuring each shell is generously coated.
10. Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately. I love how this final touch reminds me of Mama Lou’s table—always bright with fresh herbs and love.

Tips for Making the Best Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Comfort Dish

• Choose a good quality steak like sirloin or ribeye for tenderness and flavor. I’ve learned from Mama Lou that the right cut makes all the difference in comfort dishes.
• Don’t skimp on the smoked paprika—it’s the star that brings the smoky warmth. Feel free to adjust the amount to your liking, especially if you prefer a milder or stronger smoky note.
• Let the steak rest a few minutes after searing to keep it juicy. This little pause is something I picked up from Ouma, who swears by it for tender results.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor; pre-grated cheese can sometimes make the sauce grainy.
• If you want to add a veggie boost, toss in some fresh spinach or kale at the end, stirring until just wilted.
• For an extra decadent twist, drizzle a little truffle oil over the finished dish before serving—Mama Lou would have called that pure indulgence!

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Comfort Dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Whenever I make this for family gatherings, I often serve it alongside roasted garlic asparagus or sautéed green beans, which add a fresh crunch and vibrant color to the plate.

For wine lovers, a medium-bodied red like a Merlot or a fruity Zinfandel complements the smoky paprika and rich cream sauce wonderfully. I remember sharing a bottle with Ouma one chilly evening, the perfect pairing to our comforting meal and long conversations. Learn more: Ultimate Comfort: Biscuits and Gravy Hashbrown Casserole Delight

If you want to keep it simple, warm crusty bread is always a winner here—ideal for soaking up the luscious sauce. Mama Lou’s kitchen always had a basket of fresh bread during dinner, and I encourage you to do the same.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers of this Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Comfort Dish hold up well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Store them in an airtight container to keep the flavors intact. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess and gently warm over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

Avoid overheating to prevent the steak from drying out or the sauce from separating—this is a trick I learned the hard way early on, and I still remind Ouma whenever she’s rushing the reheating process!

If you want to freeze leftovers, it’s best to separate the pasta and sauce to maintain texture. Freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently before combining with freshly cooked pasta shells.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients for Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Comfort Dish?

The main ingredients for Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Comfort Dish include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

How long does it take to make Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Comfort Dish?

The total time to make Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Comfort Dish includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.

Can I make Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Comfort Dish ahead of time?

Yes, Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Comfort Dish can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.

What can I serve with Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Comfort Dish?

Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Comfort Dish pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.

Is Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Comfort Dish suitable for special diets?

Depending on the ingredients used, Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Comfort Dish may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.

Final Thoughts

Cooking this Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Comfort Dish always feels like coming home to a warm embrace from Mama Lou and sharing a laugh with Ouma around the kitchen table. It’s more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of family, tradition, and the simple joy of good food that nourishes both body and soul.

Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this dish invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and create memories with those you love. It’s a reminder that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated—it just needs heart, a pinch of smoky paprika, and a touch of creamy magic.