High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Bliss
A hearty and creamy dish that combines the savory flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the comfort of mac and cheese, making it a protein-packed option for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta and Meat
- 8 oz Dry Macaroni Whole wheat or chickpea pasta can be used
- 1 lb Lean Ground Beef Can be swapped with ground turkey or chickpeas
Vegetables
- 1 cup Chopped White Onion Yellow onion works well as a substitute
- 2 cloves Minced Garlic Use freshly minced for maximum flavor
- 2 cups Bell Peppers (Red, Green & Yellow) Use any mix based on preference
Cheese and Sauce
- 2 tablespoons Butter Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative
- 8 oz Light Cream Cheese Regular cream cheese can be used for a richer sauce
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Any favorite melting cheese can substitute
- 4 slices Light Cheese Slices Any good melting cheese slice will do
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Chili Flakes Adjust to taste
Garnish
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Optional for garnish
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook 8 ounces of dry macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Sautéing the Vegetables
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add 1 cup of chopped white onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Cooking the Meat
- Stir in 1 pound of lean ground beef into the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. If using turkey or chickpeas, ensure they are fully cooked and tender.
Adding the Peppers
- Mix in 2 cups of colorful bell peppers. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, until just tender but still crisp.
Preparing the Cheese Sauce
- Lower the heat and add 8 ounces of light cream cheese to the skillet. Stir until melted and creamy. Mix in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 4 slices of light cheese. Stir until fully incorporated and the cheese is bubbling.
Seasoning the Mixture
- Season the cheese mixture with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of pepper, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of chili flakes. Adjust to taste.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- Gently fold in the cooked macaroni into the skillet, ensuring every piece is coated with the creamy sauce.
Final Touches
- Heat through for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
Chop the onion, garlic, and bell peppers the night before to cut down on cooking time. Use high-quality cheese for the best melting effect. Adjust creaminess by adding milk or broth if needed.