High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Recipe
Introduction
This High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese is a delicious twist on a classic comfort dish. Packed with lean beef and vibrant bell peppers, it combines hearty flavors with rich, creamy cheese for a satisfying meal anyone will love.
Ingredients
- 800g lean ground beef (or turkey/chickpeas)
- 20g butter (or olive oil)
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 100g chopped white onion
- 75g each red, green & yellow bell peppers (or any mix!)
- Salt, pepper, paprika & chili flakes (to taste)
- 140g light cream cheese
- 50g shredded mozzarella
- 3–4 light cheese slices (or your fave melting cheese)
- 125ml reserved pasta water
- 240g dry macaroni (whole wheat or chickpea pasta = protein boost)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 125ml of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic, chopped onion, and bell peppers, sautéing for 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Step 3: Crumble the ground beef into the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes according to your taste.
- Step 4: Reduce heat to low. Stir in the cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and cheese slices until melted and combined into a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Step 5: Add the cooked macaroni and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir well to coat all the noodles evenly with the creamy cheese sauce. Adjust sauce thickness by adding more pasta water if necessary.
- Step 6: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Tips & Variations
- For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with cooked chickpeas and use vegetable butter or olive oil.
- Using whole wheat or chickpea pasta adds extra protein and fiber without sacrificing taste.
- Add a dash of smoked paprika or hot sauce for a smoky or spicy kick.
- Try different cheeses like provolone or gouda for varied melting qualities and flavors.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to revive the creamy sauce and prevent dryness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute macaroni with other short pasta shapes like penne or shells. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use dairy-free cream cheese and cheese substitutes to keep it creamy and flavorful without dairy.
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High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese combines the hearty flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak with the creamy comfort of mac and cheese. Made with lean ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, garlic, and a trio of melty cheeses, this dish serves up a satisfying, protein-packed meal that’s perfect for dinner any night of the week.
Ingredients
Protein
- 800g lean ground beef (or turkey/chickpeas)
Dairy & Cheese
- 20g butter (or olive oil)
- 140g light cream cheese
- 50g shredded mozzarella
- 3–4 light cheese slices (or your favorite melting cheese)
Vegetables
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 100g chopped white onion
- 75g red bell pepper
- 75g green bell pepper
- 75g yellow bell pepper
Pantry & Seasonings
- Salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes (to taste)
- 125ml reserved pasta water
- 240g dry macaroni (whole wheat or chickpea pasta for extra protein)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the macaroni until al dente. Before draining, reserve 125ml of the pasta water to use later in the sauce. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sauté Veggies: Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped onion, and assorted bell peppers. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add Beef: Crumble the lean ground beef into the skillet with the vegetables. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking up the meat as it browns. Drain any excess fat from the skillet if necessary. Season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes according to taste.
- Make it Creamy: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the light cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and cheese slices. Mix until all the cheeses have melted together, creating a silky and creamy sauce that envelops the beef and vegetables.
- Bring it Together: Add the cooked macaroni and the reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir well to coat every noodle with the creamy cheese sauce. Adjust the sauce thickness by adding more pasta water if needed for desired consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately for a delicious, warm, high-protein meal.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with cooked chickpeas or tofu.
- Using whole wheat or chickpea pasta adds extra fiber and protein.
- Adjust chili flakes to control the spice level to your preference.
- Reserve the pasta water carefully as it helps emulsify the sauce to creamy perfection.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Philly cheesesteak mac and cheese, high protein mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, easy dinner recipe, ground beef recipes
