Description
High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese is a satisfying twist on a classic that packs a serious protein punch. This delectable dish combines the rich flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the creaminess of mac and cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 pound lean ground beef
- 2 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/2 cup chopped white onion
- 1/4 cup each red, green & yellow bell peppers
- Salt, pepper, paprika & chili flakes to taste
- 5 ounce light cream cheese
- 1 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella
- 3–4 light cheese slices
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 8 ounce dry macaroni
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook Pasta: Boil the macaroni according to the package directions. Be sure to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté Veggies: In a large skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic, onion, and bell peppers until they’re soft and fragrant.
3. Cook Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes, and cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked.
4. Add Cheese: Reduce the heat and stir in the cream cheese, mozzarella, and cheese slices. Mix everything together until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
5. Combine with Pasta: Add the drained macaroni and the reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the rich, cheesy sauce.
6. Serve: Garnish the High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese with fresh parsley and enjoy this protein-packed twist on a classic comfort food!
Notes
This dish is versatile; consider adding chopped mushrooms, spinach, or roasted broccoli for extra nutrition. You can also swap ground beef for turkey or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 80mg