There are certain meals that instantly make a house feel warmer. The kind of dishes that simmer gently on the stove, filling the kitchen with comforting aromas and promising something deeply satisfying at the table. For me, creamy pasta dishes fall into that category — familiar, indulgent, and meant to be shared.

My love for cooking grew from those everyday comfort meals, where simple ingredients were transformed into something memorable. Over the years, and through traveling, I discovered how spices like paprika can completely change a dish, adding warmth, depth, and a subtle smokiness that feels both bold and comforting. That balance is at the heart of Maison Recipes, where recipes are rich in flavor but still approachable for home cooks.

This Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Comfort Dish brings everything together in one bowl. Tender steak, pasta shells that hold onto every bit of sauce, and a creamy paprika-infused sauce that’s smooth, cozy, and deeply satisfying. It’s the kind of meal you make when you want comfort without complication.

Table of Contents

Why Make Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells

This dish is designed to deliver comfort and flavor in every bite.

Here’s why it works so well:

Creamy, rich sauce with smoky depth
Tender steak paired perfectly with pasta
Comfort food that feels a little elevated
Simple ingredients, big payoff
Perfect for cozy dinners and special evenings

It’s indulgent without being overwhelming — exactly what comfort food should be.

How to Make Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells

This recipe comes together in one pan for the sauce, making it manageable and weeknight-friendly while still feeling special.

Ingredients

12 oz pasta shells
1 lb steak (sirloin or flank), sliced thin
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup cooking cream
½ cup milk
¾ cup grated parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Directions

Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add sliced steak, season with salt and black pepper, and sear until browned.
Remove steak from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in smoked paprika and sweet paprika, allowing spices to bloom gently.
Pour in cooking cream and milk, stirring until smooth.
Reduce heat and simmer for 3–4 minutes.
Add grated parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
Return steak to the skillet and stir to coat in sauce.
Add cooked pasta shells and toss gently until fully combined.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

How to Serve Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells

This dish is best served fresh and warm.

Serve it:

As a comforting dinner main
With a simple green salad
Alongside steamed vegetables
With warm flatbread or dinner rolls

It’s rich enough to stand on its own but pairs nicely with lighter sides.

How to Store Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Reheating: Reheat gently with a splash of milk
Make ahead: Sauce can be prepared ahead, pasta added before serving

Tips to Make This Comfort Dish Perfect

Slice steak thinly against the grain
Don’t overcook the steak before returning it to the sauce
Use smoked paprika for depth, not heat
Simmer gently to keep sauce smooth
Reserve pasta water if sauce needs thinning

These small details ensure a creamy, luxurious result.

Variation

This recipe is easy to adapt:

Extra smoky: Add more smoked paprika
Cheese boost: Add mozzarella for stretch
Spicy version: Add a pinch of chili flakes
Chicken option: Substitute steak with chicken strips

FAQs

What cut of steak works best?
Sirloin or flank steak work well for tenderness and flavor.

Is this dish spicy?
No, it’s smoky and warm, not hot.

Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, penne or rigatoni work well too.

Conclusion

This Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells Comfort Dish is everything comfort food should be — rich, warming, and deeply satisfying. The smoky paprika, creamy sauce, and tender steak come together in a way that feels indulgent but still familiar.

I hope this recipe becomes one of those cozy favorites you turn to when you want a meal that truly comforts. From my kitchen to yours, happy cooking with Maison Recipes

Smoky Creamy Paprika Steak Shells

This smoky creamy paprika steak shells dish is rich, comforting, and full of flavor. Tender steak and pasta shells coated in a creamy paprika sauce make the perfect comfort meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 25

Total Time 40

Servings 4 servings