High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese

Why Make This Recipe

High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings a twist to two classic favorites: cheesesteak and mac and cheese. This recipe is packed with protein, making it a great option for anyone looking to boost their intake while enjoying a comfort food favorite. Plus, it’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavorful veggies!

How to Make High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese

Ingredients:

• 800g lean ground beef (or turkey/chickpeas)
• 20g butter (or olive oil)
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 100g chopped white onion
• 75g each red, green & yellow bell peppers (or any mix!)
• Salt, pepper, paprika & chili flakes (to taste)
• 140g light cream cheese
• 50g shredded mozzarella
• 3–4 light cheese slices (or your fave melting cheese)
• 125ml reserved pasta water
• 240g dry macaroni (whole wheat or chickpea pasta = protein boost)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

1️⃣ Cook Pasta: Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente. Reserve 125ml pasta water, then drain.

2️⃣ Sauté Veggies: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté garlic, onion & peppers for 4–5 minutes until softened.

3️⃣ Add Beef: Crumble in beef. Cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up. Drain excess fat if needed. Season with salt, pepper, paprika & chili flakes.

4️⃣ Make it Creamy: Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream cheese, mozzarella, and cheese slices. Melt into a silky sauce.

5️⃣ Bring it Together: Add cooked pasta & reserved pasta water. Stir until every noodle is coated in that creamy, cheesy goodness. Adjust sauce thickness as needed.

How to Serve High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese

Serve this dish warm, garnished with fresh parsley. It pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy it for lunch, dinner, or as a hearty snack!

How to Store High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese

To store leftovers, let the mac and cheese cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

Tips to Make High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese

• Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for extra protein.
• Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chickpeas for a different protein source.
• Adjust the spices to match your preference; add more chili flakes for extra heat.
• Don’t skip the reserved pasta water; it helps create a creamy sauce.

Variation

You can add different vegetables or even some cooked mushrooms for extra flavor. For a spicier kick, try adding jalapeños or hot sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! You can use any melting cheese you like. Pepper jack or gouda would be great options.

How can I increase the protein content?
Substituting regular pasta with chickpea pasta or adding more lean protein like turkey can boost the protein levels.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just substitute the ground beef with chickpeas, lentils, or any plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth for added flavor.

Print