Introduction

This High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Bliss combines the comforting creaminess of mac and cheese with the bold flavors of a Philly cheesesteak. Packed with lean ground beef and melty cheeses, it’s a satisfying dish perfect for a hearty weeknight meal.

High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Bliss 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, then reserve 125 ml of the pasta water. 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, stirring well. Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and any moisture has evaporated. Drain excess fat, then season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.
Step 4: Reduce heat to low, add the light cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and cheese slices. Stir continuously until all the cheeses melt, creating a creamy sauce.
Step 5: Add the cooked macaroni and reserved pasta water. Stir until the noodles are fully coated in the cheese sauce, adding more reserved water if needed to reach desired consistency.
Step 6: Remove from heat and serve in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Pair with a green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta to boost protein and fiber content.
Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chickpeas for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly version.
Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies and flavor.
Use provolone or fontina cheese for a different melty cheese twist.
Adjust chili flakes to control the heat level according to your preference.

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 milk or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the entire dish and store it in the fridge. Reheat thoroughly before serving, adding a little liquid to maintain creaminess.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

Light ricotta or mascarpone are good substitutes for cream cheese and still provide a rich, creamy texture.

High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Bliss Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 137 reviews

This High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese offers a delicious fusion of classic cheesesteak flavors combined with creamy mac and cheese. Made with lean ground beef, fresh bell peppers, and a blend of light cheeses, this dish is protein-packed and comforting, perfect for a hearty meal with a cheesy, savory kick.

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

Ingredients

Scale

Protein 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 and Aromatics

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)

Dry Ingredients and Seasoning

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

Liquids and Garnish

125 ml Reserved Pasta Water (helps create a silky sauce)
Fresh Parsley (optional for serving)

Instructions

Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the dry macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7–9 minutes. Reserve 125 ml of the pasta water before draining the macaroni. Set pasta aside to cool slightly.
Sauté vegetables: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. When butter is bubbling, add minced garlic, chopped onion, and sliced bell peppers. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until vegetables soften and onions become translucent.
Cook the ground beef: Crumble the lean ground beef into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir well and cook for 5–7 minutes until beef is browned and moisture evaporates. Drain any excess fat and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.
Create the cheese sauce: Reduce heat to low. Add the light cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and cheese slices to the skillet. Stir continuously until all cheeses melt, creating a creamy, smooth sauce.
Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked macaroni and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir well until noodles are thoroughly coated in the cheese sauce. Add more reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
Serve: Remove skillet from heat and serve the mac and cheese in bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy alongside a green salad or garlic bread for a fulfilling meal.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute lean ground beef with ground turkey or chickpeas.
Whole wheat or chickpea pasta can boost the protein and fiber content.
Adjust chili flakes to your preferred heat level.
Reserved pasta water helps achieve a creamy sauce without thinning it too much.
Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of milk or water.

Keywords: Philly cheesesteak, mac and cheese, high protein, creamy pasta, lean ground beef, comfort food, quick dinner