Welcome to a culinary delight that combines the bold flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the comforting texture of macaroni and cheese. Our High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese offers a delicious escape from the usual, marrying savory beef, creamy cheeses, and colorful peppers into a dish that feels blissfully indulgent yet remains guilt-free. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe leverages whole foods that pack a protein punch with every bite.
The allure of this dish lies not only in its taste but also in its nutritional benefits. By using lean ground beef or turkey, you infuse each serving with essential proteins without unnecessary fats. Moreover, incorporating whole wheat or chickpea macaroni further boosts the protein content, making it a satisfying meal for anyone conscious of their health. Meanwhile, the heat from chili flakes and paprika adds an intriguing kick, perfectly complementing the creamy cheese sauce that binds it all together.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re short on time yet crave something mouthwateringly satisfying, this Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese is not only comfort food; it’s a testament to healthy indulgence. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, this recipe promises to deliver big on flavor without burdening you with culinary guilt.
Why You’ll Love This High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Protein-Packed: Lean ground meat and high-protein pasta keep you full and satisfied.
- Rich in Flavor: Enjoy all the beloved elements of a Philly cheesesteak with creamy pasta and melty cheeses.
- Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients to cater to dietary preferences and needs.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
To embark on this delicious journey, start by organizing your kitchen workspace to ensure an efficient cooking process. Make sure your ingredients are measured and within reach. Using a large skillet is crucial for sautéing vegetables and meat while providing ample space for mixing in the pasta and cheese. You’ll need a medium-sized saucepan for boiling the macaroni if prepared separately.
For perfect pasta, use a timer to ensure it is cooked al dente. To make the cheese sauce seamless, a heat-resistant silicone spatula can help stir ingredients smoothly without leaving any residue. Have a finely-sharpened knife on hand for uniformly chopping the onions and peppers. Opt for either a wooden spoon or spatula to manage various stages of the cooking to prevent scratching any non-stick surfaces.
Ingredients
- 800g lean ground beef (or turkey/chickpeas)
- 240g dry macaroni (use whole wheat or chickpea for extra protein)
- 100g chopped white onion
- 75g each red, yellow & green bell peppers
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 20g butter or olive oil
- 140g light cream cheese
- 50g shredded mozzarella
- 3–4 slices light cheese (your favorite meltable kind)
- 125ml reserved pasta water
- Salt, pepper, paprika & chili flakes (to taste)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking the macaroni in a pot of salted, boiling water until it reaches an al dente texture. This ensures the pasta remains firm enough to hold up under the rich, creamy sauce. Once cooked, reserve 125ml of the pasta water, as this will be key to adjusting the sauce’s consistency. Drain the remaining water and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped onion, and the tricolor bell peppers. Stir frequently and let them cook for about 4–5 minutes or until the vegetables have softened and the garlic fragrant, setting the flavor foundation of your dish.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Meat
Introduce the lean ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it into smaller pieces, ensuring even cooking. Allow it to cook for 5–7 minutes until browned thoroughly. Season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and a hint of chili flakes to add depth to the meat.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
Reduce the heat to low before you incorporate the light cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and the torn slices of cheese. Stir continuously until the cheeses have melted into a smooth sauce. This step is crucial to prevent the cheese from clumping together.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked macaroni and reserved pasta water back into the skillet. Stir to ensure each pasta piece is evenly coated with the creamy, cheesy mixture. If you need to adjust the thickness, feel free to add more reserved water for a silkier sauce.
Finally, garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot, enhancing both the dish’s aroma and appearance.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute the beef with ground turkey for a leaner option or opt for chickpeas to make it vegetarian.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrients and variation in texture.
- Spices: Experiment with garlic powder or cayenne pepper to tailor the spice level to your taste preference.
Cooking Notes
- For a robust flavor, ensure to brown the ground meat without overcrowding the skillet, which could lead to steaming rather than browning.
- If you find the sauce too thick, slowly add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is achieved, keeping in mind it thickens as it cools.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this dish with a fresh side salad for a balanced meal packed with fibers and vitamins.
- A glass of light red wine, like Pinot Noir, complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Tips
- To save time, chop all veggies in advance and store them in airtight containers.
- Using fresh parsley for garnish not only adds color but also a fresh aroma enhancing the dish’s appeal.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Protein: Approximately 35g per serving
- Sodium: Approximately 650mg per serving
FAQs
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly on the stove, adding a splash of milk or water to maintain creaminess.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely, simply substitute with your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure the other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Is there an alternative to cream cheese?
You can use ricotta or mascarpone to keep the creaminess while maintaining a similar flavor profile.
How can I make it spicier?
Consider adding more chili flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or freshly sliced jalapeños to elevate the heat level to your liking.
Conclusion
This High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese effortlessly brings together the beloved flavors of a classic cheesesteak in a protein-rich, creamy pasta dish. Whether you’re a busy professional seeking a quick dinner solution or someone craving comfort food without the caloric cost, this recipe delivers on all fronts. With simple substitutions, it can accommodate various dietary preferences, making it versatile and easy to personalize.
We hope you enjoy this delightful twist on a classic dish and encourage you to share your variations or experiences in the comments below. Dive into a bowl of comforting deliciousness that’s both nourishing and satisfying. Happy cooking!
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High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A high-protein twist on a classic dish, combining Philly cheesesteak flavors with creamy mac & cheese.
Ingredients
- 800g lean ground beef (or turkey/chickpeas)
- 240g dry macaroni (use whole wheat or chickpea for extra protein)
- 100g chopped white onion
- 75g each red, yellow & green bell peppers
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 20g butter or olive oil
- 140g light cream cheese
- 50g shredded mozzarella
- 3–4 slices light cheese (your favorite meltable kind)
- 125ml reserved pasta water
- Salt, pepper, paprika & chili flakes (to taste)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni in a pot of salted, boiling water until al dente. Reserve 125ml of pasta water, then drain.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat, add garlic, onion, and bell peppers; cook until soft.
- Add ground beef, cook until browned, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.
- Reduce heat, add cream cheese, mozzarella, and sliced cheese; stir until melted smoothly.
- Combine macaroni and sauce in the skillet, add reserved pasta water as needed for consistency. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
For a robust flavor, ensure to brown the ground meat without overcrowding the skillet.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Protein: 35 g