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High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Recipe

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

4.8 from 7 reviews

This High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese is a deliciously comforting dish that combines the savory flavors of ground beef, sautéed bell peppers, and onions with a creamy, cheesy sauce made from cream cheese, mozzarella, and melting cheese slices. Using whole wheat or chickpea pasta adds a protein boost, making this meal both hearty and satisfying. Perfect for anyone craving a twist on classic mac and cheese with the familiar flavors of a Philly cheesesteak.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Dairy

  • 800g lean ground beef (or turkey/chickpeas)
  • 140g light cream cheese
  • 50g shredded mozzarella
  • 3–4 light cheese slices (or your favorite melting cheese)
  • 20g butter (or olive oil)

Vegetables

  • 1 tbsp minced garlic
  • 100g chopped white onion
  • 75g red bell pepper, chopped
  • 75g green bell pepper, chopped
  • 75g yellow bell pepper, chopped

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Paprika, to taste
  • Chili flakes, to taste

Carbohydrates

  • 240g dry macaroni (whole wheat or chickpea pasta for extra protein)

Other

  • 125ml reserved pasta water
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes depending on the pasta type. Reserve 125ml of the pasta cooking water then drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. Sauté Veggies: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped onion, and mixed bell peppers. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
  3. Add Beef: Crumble the lean ground beef into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring and breaking up the meat until fully browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, paprika, and chili flakes to your preference.
  4. Make it Creamy: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the light cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and cheese slices until all the cheese melts completely, forming a smooth and silky sauce.
  5. Bring it Together: Add the cooked macaroni and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir well to coat every noodle with the creamy cheese sauce. Adjust the sauce consistency by adding more pasta water if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute the lean ground beef with turkey or chickpeas for a different protein source or a vegetarian option.
  • Whole wheat or chickpea pasta increases the protein and fiber content of the dish.
  • Adjust seasoning levels according to your taste, adding more chili flakes for extra heat.
  • Use light cream cheese and cheese to keep the dish lower in fat without sacrificing creaminess.
  • Reserve pasta water carefully; it helps to loosen the sauce for perfect creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: philly cheesesteak, mac and cheese, high protein, creamy pasta, ground beef recipe, easy dinner, comfort food, whole wheat pasta, chickpea pasta

Find it online: https://bitesizedbenny.com/high-protein-creamy-philly-cheesesteak-mac-and-cheese-recipe/