Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells : A Bold, Satisfying Pasta for Every Night of the Week

There’s nothing quite like a rich, comforting pasta dish to bring everyone to the table, and this Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells recipe delivers everything you love in a cozy dinner. Tender strips of seared steak are wrapped in a luscious, paprika-spiced cream sauce and tossed with shell pasta that perfectly catches every bit of flavor. It’s a one-pan comfort food classic that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make.

If you’re searching for a hearty, flavorful dinner that’s both impressive and quick, this creamy steak pasta should be at the top of your list. With the smoky depth of paprika and the richness of cream, it’s a delicious twist on traditional beef pasta recipes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

This recipe is great for anyone who loves meals like creamy Cajun pasta, beef stroganoff, or classic comfort food with a bold twist. It’s also ideal for busy nights when you want something filling but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. If you’re already a fan of meals like our Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry or Crockpot Fajitas, you’ll love this one too.

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Why You’ll Love This Steak Pasta Recipe

Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells combine the richness of a cream-based sauce with the robust flavor of seared steak and the subtle heat of smoked paprika. This dish is:

Quick and ready in under 30 minutes

Made with affordable pantry staples and common ingredients

Loaded with protein and flavor

Perfect for weeknights, yet elegant enough for special dinners

Family-approved and great for leftovers

It’s the kind of recipe that will quickly become part of your regular rotation because of its convenience and taste. Plus, the smoky notes from the paprika make it unique without being overpowering.

What Are Creamy Paprika Steak Shells?

This dish is a flavorful pasta made with steak, shell pasta, and a creamy paprika-infused sauce. The smoked paprika gives it a rich, almost grilled flavor without needing a grill, while the heavy cream smooths everything into a silky coating for the pasta. The medium pasta shells are perfect for this sauce—they trap it in every bite for maximum flavor.

Think of this as a cross between your favorite steak dinner and a creamy pasta night with a little smoky flair. It’s comforting, hearty, and full of character.

Ingredients for Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this satisfying dish:

8 ounces steak (sirloin, flank, or skirt), thinly sliced
8 ounces medium pasta shells
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup beef broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: fresh parsley, grated Parmesan, or crushed red pepper flakes for garnish

If you’re looking for substitutions, chicken or even mushrooms can work in place of steak. But nothing quite matches the richness of beef paired with creamy, smoky sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells until just al dente, drain, and set aside. Reserve a bit of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Meanwhile, heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced steak, season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika, and sear for about one to two minutes per side. Once browned, remove the steak from the pan and set aside.

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add a little more oil if needed, then sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the smoked paprika and let it toast briefly to release its smoky aroma.

Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth. Whisk well to combine and let the sauce simmer for three to five minutes until slightly thickened.

Return the steak to the pan and add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until coated in the creamy sauce. If it’s too thick, add a splash of pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, Parmesan, or red pepper flakes for a little heat.

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Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this recipe, you’ll need:

Large skillet or sauté pan
Medium pot for boiling pasta
Sharp knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk or spatula

Having the right tools on hand makes this quick dinner even easier to pull together on a weeknight.

Tips for the Best Creamy Paprika Steak Shells

Slice your steak thin and against the grain for the most tender bite.
Use smoked paprika, not regular or sweet, to get that signature smoky flavor.
Don’t overcook the steak during searing—it will finish in the sauce.
Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce’s thickness if needed.
Use a high-fat cream (at least 35%) for a smooth, rich texture.

You can also add a spoonful of cream cheese or sour cream to thicken and enrich the sauce even more.

Delicious Variations to Try

Mushroom lovers can sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for a beef-and-mushroom combo.
Substitute steak with thin slices of chicken breast or even shrimp for a different protein option.
Add cooked spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and nutrients.
Want it spicier? Stir in cayenne pepper or hot smoked paprika.

This dish is incredibly versatile, so don’t be afraid to get creative with your favorite ingredients.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to develop, so leftovers taste even better the next day.

To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving on high, as it can cause the steak to toughen.

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze portions for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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What to Serve with Creamy Paprika Steak Shells

This pasta is rich and flavorful, so light, fresh sides work beautifully:

A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette
Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans
Garlic bread or a slice of crusty bread
A refreshing side like our Cucumber Dill Salad or Garlic Herb Roasted Veggies

If you’re looking to round out the meal with dessert, try a light option like Yogurt Protein Cookies or Lemon Poppy Seed Bites for contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of pasta? Yes, penne, rotini, or rigatoni also work well with this sauce. Choose something that holds onto creamy sauces.

Is this recipe spicy? Not at all! Smoked paprika adds depth, not heat. Add red pepper flakes if you want a kick.

Can I make this gluten-free? Absolutely. Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and seasonings are gluten-free too.

What if I don’t have heavy cream? You can use half-and-half, though the sauce may be slightly thinner. Greek yogurt or plant-based cream can also work in a pinch.

Can I make it dairy-free? Yes, substitute a dairy-free cream alternative and skip the Parmesan topping.

Final Thoughts

Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells is one of those comfort food recipes that brings bold flavor with minimal effort. From its tender steak to the silky, paprika-scented sauce and satisfying pasta, it’s a meal that hits every note. Whether you’re cooking for a date night, your family, or meal prepping for the week, this dish fits right in.

It’s rich, satisfying, easy to make, and always impressive. Bookmark it for those nights when you need something special but still want dinner on the table fast. And if you enjoy dishes like our Cheesy Pasta Bake or Slow Cooker Chicken and Green Beans, this one’s a must-try.

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