Introduction

This High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Bliss combines the comforting creaminess of mac and cheese with the savory flavors of a Philly cheesesteak. It’s a satisfying meal perfect for those looking to pack in protein without skimping on taste.

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. Reserve 125 ml of the pasta water, then drain the macaroni and set it aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: 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.
Step 3: Crumble the lean 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 the light cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and cheese slices. Stir continuously until everything is melted into a creamy sauce.
Step 5: Add the cooked macaroni and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir until the noodles are evenly coated with the cheese sauce. Add more pasta water if the sauce needs thinning for your desired consistency.
Step 6: Remove from heat. Serve in bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. This dish pairs beautifully with a green salad or garlic bread.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chickpeas to boost protein and reduce fat.
Using whole wheat or chickpea pasta can increase fiber and protein content without compromising texture.
Try swapping mozzarella for provolone or fontina for different flavor profiles.
Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to incorporate extra veggies and nutrients.

Storage

Store 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 milk or reserved pasta water to bring back creamy consistency.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the ground beef with chickpeas or your favorite plant-based meat substitute to keep it protein-rich and vegetarian-friendly.

What is the best way to prevent the mac and cheese from drying out when reheating?

Adding a small amount of milk or reserved pasta water while reheating helps restore the creamy texture and prevents the dish from drying out.

High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Recipe

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4.8 from 96 reviews

This High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Bliss combines the rich, savory flavors of lean ground beef and sautéed vegetables with a luscious, cheesy sauce. Using light cream cheese and mozzarella keeps it indulgent yet balanced, while the addition of bell peppers and onions enhances the dish’s texture and flavor. Perfect for a comforting, hearty meal that offers a boost of protein and classic Philly cheesesteak taste in a comforting mac and cheese format.

Author: Marco
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale

Protein & Cheese

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

Pantry & Seasonings

1 tbsp Butter (Olive oil can be a healthier alternative.)
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 the dry macaroni. Cook it until al dente, about 7–9 minutes. Reserve 125 ml of the pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside to cool slightly.
Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic, chopped onion, and sliced bell peppers. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent, developing a fragrant base.
Cook the Beef: Crumble the lean ground beef into the skillet with the vegetables. Stir and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and any moisture has evaporated. Drain excess fat to avoid greasiness. Then, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes for a balanced, slightly spicy flavor.
Make the Cheese Sauce: Reduce heat to low. Add the light cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and cheese slices to the beef and vegetable mixture. Stir continuously until all the cheese melts, creating a creamy and smooth sauce that coats the pan’s contents.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir thoroughly to combine the noodles with the cheese sauce, adding more reserved pasta water if necessary to reach your desired sauce consistency and silkiness.
Serve: Remove from heat and transfer to serving bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness. Serve with a side like green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Notes

Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for enhanced protein and fiber content.
Light cream cheese and cheese slices reduce overall fat while maintaining creaminess.
Adjust chili flakes to control the spice level according to personal taste.
Reserved pasta water is crucial for adjusting sauce thickness and achieving a silky texture.
For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with cooked chickpeas or a plant-based protein.
Consider adding mushrooms or spinach to increase vegetable content and nutrition.

Keywords: Philly cheesesteak mac and cheese, high protein mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, healthy cheesesteak recipe, stovetop mac and cheese, lean ground beef recipe