Introduction

This High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Bliss combines savory ground beef, melty cheeses, and tender macaroni in a rich, comforting dish. It’s a satisfying twist on classic mac and cheese that brings bold flavors and plenty of protein to your table.

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 until al dente, about 7–9 minutes. Reserve 125 ml of the pasta water, then drain the macaroni and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: In a large skillet, melt 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 ground beef into the skillet and stir well. Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and moisture evaporates. Drain excess fat, then season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.
Step 4: Reduce heat to low and add cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and cheese slices. Stir continuously until all the cheese melts into a creamy sauce.
Step 5: Add the cooked macaroni and reserved pasta water. Stir to coat the noodles evenly in the cheese sauce, adding more pasta water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Remove from heat and serve in bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and enjoy with a green salad or garlic bread on the side.

Tips & Variations

Try swapping ground beef for ground turkey or chickpeas to reduce fat and add variety.
Use a mix of bell pepper colors for a vibrant, visually appealing dish.
Substitute light cream cheese with light ricotta for a smoother, lighter sauce.
If you prefer spicier food, increase chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
Whole wheat or chickpea pasta not only boosts protein but adds extra fiber.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or milk to restore creaminess. Avoid overheating to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the ground beef with chickpeas, lentils, or your favorite plant-based ground meat to keep it high in protein and vegetarian-friendly.

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from getting too thick or clumpy?

Reserved pasta water contains starch that helps keep the sauce smooth and creamy. Add it gradually while stirring to adjust consistency. Also, cook over low heat when melting cheese to avoid clumping.

High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 137 reviews

A high-protein twist on classic comfort food, this creamy Philly cheesesteak mac and cheese combines lean ground beef, creamy cheeses, and tender macaroni for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Enhanced with sautéed peppers, onions, and a blend of spices, this dish delivers a perfect balance of richness and zest.

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

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Dairy

1 lb Lean Ground Beef (Consider turkey or chickpeas for a lighter option)
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)

Vegetables

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)
0 Fresh Parsley (Optional for serving)

Dry Goods and Seasonings

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 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 Ground 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 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. Stir until the noodles are coated in the cheese sauce, adding more reserved water if needed for consistency.
Serve: Remove from heat and serve in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Pair with a green salad or garlic bread.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute lean ground beef with turkey or chickpeas.
Use olive oil instead of butter for a healthier fat option.
Choose whole wheat or chickpea pasta to increase fiber and protein content.
Adjust spice levels by omitting or reducing chili flakes.
Fresh parsley adds a nice touch of color and freshness but is optional.
If the sauce becomes too thick, add more reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired consistency.

Keywords: Philly Cheesesteak, Mac and Cheese, High Protein, Comfort Food, Creamy, Ground Beef, Easy Dinner