Introduction

Enjoy a comforting twist on two classics with this High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Bliss. Combining the rich flavors of Philly cheesesteak with creamy mac and cheese, this dish is satisfying and packed with protein, perfect for a hearty meal any day of the week.

High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

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 dry macaroni. Cook the pasta until al dente, about 7–9 minutes, then reserve 125 ml of the pasta water. Drain the macaroni and set it aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Once bubbling, add minced garlic, chopped onion, and bell peppers. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent.
Step 3: Crumble the lean ground beef into the skillet, stirring well. Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and moisture has evaporated. Drain excess fat, then season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.
Step 4: Reduce heat to low. Add light cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and cheese slices. Stir continuously until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce.
Step 5: Add the cooked macaroni and reserved pasta water. Stir until the noodles are fully coated in the cheese sauce. Add more reserved water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Remove from heat and serve in bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a green salad or garlic bread.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter version, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chickpeas to boost protein without extra fat.
Swap light cream cheese with light ricotta for a slightly different texture and flavor.
Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta to increase fiber and protein content.
Feel free to mix bell pepper colors for a vibrant, visually appealing dish.
Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce if needed. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but reheats well for a quick meal.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with chickpeas or a plant-based ground meat alternative to keep the dish vegetarian while maintaining protein content.

What cheese can I use if I don’t have mozzarella?

Provolone, fontina, or any good melting cheese works well in this recipe. Feel free to use your favorite cheeses that melt smoothly to achieve the creamy texture.

High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 67 reviews

This High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Bliss combines the rich flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak with creamy mac and cheese, creating a comforting, hearty meal packed with protein. Featuring lean ground beef, a blend of cheeses, and sautéed peppers and onions, this dish is ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner or indulgent weekend treat.

Author: Bella
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Main 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)

Seasonings & Extras

1 tbsp Salt
1 tbsp Pepper
1 tsp Paprika
1 tsp Chili Flakes
125 ml Reserved Pasta Water (Helps create a silky sauce)
0 Fresh Parsley (Optional for serving)

Instructions

Cook 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. Reserve 125 ml of pasta water before draining the noodles. Set the cooked macaroni aside to cool slightly.
Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat until bubbling. Add minced garlic, chopped onion, and sliced bell peppers. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent.
Cook Ground Beef: Crumble the lean ground beef into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir well and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and any moisture evaporates. Drain excess fat, then season the mixture with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.
Add Cheeses: Reduce the heat to low. Add light cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and cheese slices to the skillet. Stir continuously until all cheeses have melted, forming a creamy sauce.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir thoroughly to coat the noodles evenly with the cheese sauce. Add additional reserved pasta water as needed to reach the desired sauce consistency.
Serve: Remove from heat and transfer the mac and cheese to bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve alongside a green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Notes

Consider swapping lean ground beef for turkey or chickpeas for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Use whole wheat or chickpea macaroni to increase protein and fiber content.
Adjust the amount of chili flakes according to your preferred spiciness level.
Reserve pasta water is key to achieving a smooth and creamy sauce texture.
For a richer flavor, experiment with different melting cheeses like provolone or fontina.
This dish pairs well with fresh greens or crispy garlic bread for balance.

Keywords: Philly cheesesteak mac and cheese, high-protein mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese recipe, skillet mac and cheese, comfort food, cheesy pasta