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High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 74 reviews
  • Author: Sarah
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese combines the rich flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak with a creamy, cheesy macaroni base. Using lean ground beef and a blend of cheeses with sautéed peppers and onions, this dish offers a comforting yet protein-packed twist on traditional mac and cheese. Perfect for a hearty meal that satisfies cravings while maintaining balanced nutrition.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat & Dairy

  • 800g lean ground beef (or turkey or chickpeas)
  • 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

Other Ingredients

  • Salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes to taste
  • 125ml reserved pasta water
  • 240g dry macaroni (whole wheat or chickpea pasta for extra protein)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Reserve 125ml of the pasta water before draining to help create a silky sauce later.
  2. Sauté Veggies: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped onion, and bell peppers. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables soften and release their flavors.
  3. Add Beef: Crumble in the lean ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. Drain excess fat if necessary. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes to taste.
  4. Make it Creamy: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the light cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and cheese slices. Allow the cheeses to melt together gently, forming a smooth, silky sauce.
  5. Bring it Together: Add the cooked macaroni and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir well to ensure every noodle is coated with the creamy, cheesy sauce. Adjust the texture by adding more pasta water if needed.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your high-protein comfort meal.

Notes

  • Substitute ground turkey or chickpeas for a different protein source or to make it vegetarian with chickpeas.
  • Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for an added protein boost and extra fiber.
  • You can adjust spice levels by varying the amount of paprika and chili flakes.
  • Reserve pasta water is key to achieving a creamy sauce without adding extra cream or milk.
  • Drain excess fat from the beef to keep the dish lighter and avoid greasiness.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Philly cheesesteak, mac and cheese, high protein, creamy, ground beef, easy dinner, comfort food, stovetop recipe

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