High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Recipe
Introduction
This High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Bliss combines classic comfort flavors with a protein-packed twist. It’s a hearty, cheesy dish featuring lean ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a luscious cheese sauce. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Lean Ground Beef (Consider turkey or chickpeas for a lighter option.)
- 1 tbsp Butter (Olive oil can be a healthier alternative.)
- 2 cloves Minced Garlic (Fresh or jarred garlic works well.)
- 1 cup Chopped White Onion (Shallots can substitute.)
- 1 cup Bell Peppers (Mix colors for visual appeal or use any available variety.)
- 8 oz Light Cream Cheese (Light ricotta can be a great substitute.)
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella (Alternatives include provolone or fontina.)
- 4 slices Light Cheese Slices (Use your favorite melting cheese if desired.)
- 8 oz Dry Macaroni (Whole Wheat or Chickpea can enhance protein content.)
- 1 tbsp Salt
- 1 tbsp Pepper
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Chili Flakes
- 125 ml Reserved Pasta Water (Helps create a silky sauce.)
- Fresh Parsley (Optional for serving.)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the dry macaroni. Cook until al dente, about 7–9 minutes. Reserve 125 ml of pasta water, then drain the macaroni and set aside to cool slightly.
- Step 2: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic, chopped onion, and sliced bell peppers. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until vegetables are softened and onions are translucent.
- Step 3: Crumble the lean ground beef into the skillet. Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and moisture evaporates. Drain excess fat and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.
- Step 4: Reduce heat to low and add the light cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and cheese slices. Stir continuously until all cheese is melted and forms a creamy sauce.
- Step 5: Add the cooked macaroni along with the reserved pasta water. Stir well until noodles are evenly coated with the cheese sauce. Add more reserved water if needed to adjust consistency.
- Step 6: Remove from heat and serve in bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy with a green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips & Variations
- For a lighter version, substitute lean ground beef with ground turkey or chickpeas.
- Try using whole wheat or chickpea pasta to boost fiber and protein content.
- Mix different cheeses like provolone or fontina for varied flavor in the sauce.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables and nutrients.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess if needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the lean ground beef with chickpeas or a plant-based ground meat alternative to keep it vegetarian without sacrificing protein.
How can I make the sauce creamier?
Using reserved pasta water helps create a silky sauce, but you can also stir in a little milk or add extra cream cheese to enhance the creaminess.
PrintHigh-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Recipe
A high-protein twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak mac & cheese, combining lean ground beef with a creamy cheese sauce loaded with mozzarella, cream cheese, and light cheese slices, all tossed with al dente macaroni for a comforting, flavorful meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Meat
- 1 lb Lean Ground Beef (Consider turkey or chickpeas for a lighter option.)
Dairy
- 1 tbsp Butter (Olive oil can be a healthier alternative.)
- 8 oz Light Cream Cheese (Light ricotta can be a great substitute.)
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella (Alternatives include provolone or fontina.)
- 4 slices Light Cheese Slices (Use your favorite melting cheese if desired.)
Produce
- 2 cloves Minced Garlic (Fresh or jarred garlic works well.)
- 1 cup Chopped White Onion (Shallots can substitute.)
- 1 cup Bell Peppers (Mix colors for visual appeal or use any available variety.)
- Fresh Parsley (Optional for serving.)
Pantry
- 8 oz Dry Macaroni (Whole Wheat or Chickpea can enhance protein content.)
- 1 tbsp Salt
- 1 tbsp Pepper
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Chili Flakes
- 125 ml Reserved Pasta Water (Helps create a silky sauce.)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add dry macaroni. Cook the pasta until al dente, about 7–9 minutes, then reserve 125ml of the pasta water. Drain the macaroni and set it aside to cool slightly.
- Sauté the aromatics and vegetables: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once bubbling, add minced garlic, chopped onion, and sliced bell peppers. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent.
- Cook the beef: Crumble the lean ground beef into the skillet, stirring well. Cook for 5–7 minutes until it’s browned and any moisture has evaporated. Drain excess fat, then season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.
- Create the cheese sauce: Reduce heat to low, add the light cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and cheese slices. Stir continuously until melted, creating a creamy sauce.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked macaroni and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir until the noodles are thoroughly coated in the cheese sauce, adding more reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Optionally, pair with a green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can substitute lean ground turkey or chickpeas for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- Using whole wheat or chickpea macaroni adds extra fiber and protein.
- If cream cheese is unavailable, light ricotta can be used as a substitute.
- Adjust chili flakes according to your desired spice level.
- Reserve pasta water for sauce consistency management and a silkier texture.
- For a richer flavor, swap butter with olive oil but keep in mind it alters the fat profile.
Keywords: Philly cheesesteak mac and cheese, high protein mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, ground beef recipe, quick dinner, comfort food
