Description
This High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese combines tender beef, sautéed peppers, and ultra-creamy cheese sauce for a rich, satisfying, and protein-packed comfort meal.
Ingredients
- For the Pasta
- 8 oz dry macaroni (whole wheat or chickpea pasta optional)
- For the Filling
- 1 lb lean ground beef (or ground turkey/chickpeas)
- 1 cup chopped white onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups bell peppers (mixed colors)
- For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil)
- 8 oz light cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 4 slices light cheese
- For Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente (8–10 minutes). Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté garlic, onion, and bell peppers for 4–5 minutes.
- Add ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.
- Lower heat and stir in cream cheese, mozzarella, and cheese slices until melted and creamy.
- Add cooked macaroni and reserved pasta water, mixing until fully coated and creamy.
Notes
- Use chickpea pasta for extra protein.
- Add extra mozzarella for a thicker cheese pull.
- Swap beef for turkey for a lighter version.
- Best served hot and creamy.