There’s something incredibly comforting about a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that brings back memories of family dinners and gatherings. High-protein creamy philly cheesesteak mac & cheese combines the nostalgia of classic macaroni and cheese with the bold flavors of a Philadelphia cheesesteak. If you’re like me, you’re always on the lookout for ways to elevate comforting favorites while also sneaking in some nutritious ingredients. This dish not only satisfies your craving for comfort food but also packs a punch of protein, making it perfect for a hearty dinner without the guilt.
What makes this mac & cheese special is its luscious creaminess balanced with savory and slightly sweet bell peppers. And let’s not forget the lean ground beef or turkey, which provides a protein boost and keeps you feeling full longer. It’s an ideal meal for families, those busy weeknights, or even meal prep, ensuring you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying dish any day of the week.
Why you’ll love this
- Quick cooking time lets you enjoy a full meal in under an hour.
- Packed with protein, it helps keep you full and energized.
- Savory flavors that satisfy without sacrificing comfort.
- A one-pot meal means less cleanup afterward.
- Versatile ingredients allow for easy substitutions based on what you have on hand.
"I never knew mac & cheese could taste this good and be good for me!"
Step-by-step overview
This dish begins with cooking the macaroni and sautéing your vegetables in a skillet. Next, you will cook the beef (or turkey/chickpeas) and season it with spices. The cream cheese and shredded cheeses are then blended in to create a velvety sauce. Finally, combine everything with the pasta for a delightful, hearty meal.
Key ingredients
- 800g lean ground beef (or turkey/chickpeas)
- 20g butter (or olive oil)
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 100g chopped white onion
- 75g each red, green & yellow bell peppers (or any mix!)
- Salt, pepper, paprika & chili flakes (to taste)
- 140g light cream cheese
- 50g shredded mozzarella
- 3–4 light cheese slices (or your fave melting cheese)
- 125ml reserved pasta water
- 240g dry macaroni (whole wheat or chickpea pasta for a protein boost)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Lean Ground Meat: Feel free to substitute with turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
- Cream Cheese: Light cream cheese offers a rich texture while cutting calories. Use full-fat for an indulgent treat.
- Pasta Shapes: Macaroni is classic, but any pasta shape holds the sauce beautifully. Whole wheat or chickpea varieties enhance nutrition.
- Bell Peppers: Use any color bell pepper or mix up the vegetables with additions like mushrooms or spinach.
Cooking method
Making this dish involves combining the pasta, beef, veggies, and cheeses into a delightful creamy texture. Start by cooking the pasta and then create a rich sauce in just a few steps.
- Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente. Reserve 125ml pasta water, then drain.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté garlic, onion, and peppers for 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Crumble in beef (or turkey/chickpeas). Cook 5-7 minutes until browned, breaking it up. Drain excess fat if needed. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream cheese, mozzarella, and cheese slices. Melt into a silky sauce.
- Add cooked pasta and reserved pasta water. Stir until every noodle is coated in that creamy, cheesy goodness. Adjust sauce thickness as needed.
Pro Tip: If you find your sauce too thick, add more reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until you achieve your desired consistency.
Visual doneness cues include a beautiful creamy sauce that can coat the pasta without being too thick or too runny, and it should smell heavenly with the aromas of beef and peppers wafting from the pan.
Helpful cooking tips
- Cook pasta just shy of fully soft to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed into the sauce.
- Drain beef well if using higher-fat meat to avoid a greasy dish.
- Taste your sauce before adding more seasoning. The flavors can intensify as it cooks together.
- Garnish generously with parsley for an added fresh touch and to elevate the presentation.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serve your mac & cheese in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a simple garden salad or garlic bread. This dish is excellent for gatherings, offering a hearty portion that satisfies all ages.
Storage & reheating tips
Store the creamy philly cheesesteak mac & cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave with a splash of reserved pasta water or a knob of butter to moisten everything and restore its creamy texture. For longer storage, freeze it in a suitable container; it should keep well for up to three months.
Refrigerate leftovers within two hours; reheat until steaming hot.
How to fix common issues
- Dry Mac & Cheese: If the mac & cheese turns out dry, it may require more reserved pasta water when reheating to bring back the creaminess.
- Spread Out Ingredients: Sometime all the beef may settle; stir well before serving to blend the ingredients evenly.
- Flavor Too Mild: Stir in additional spices or a splash of hot sauce to amp up the flavors if necessary.
Recipe variations
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, such as diced zucchini or spinach, for added nutrients. You can substitute the light cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a vegan twist. Additionally, try adding spices like Italian seasoning or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a unique flavor profile. Optional: Swap out the mozzarella for cheddar or Gouda for a flavor twist.
Common questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to mixing in the pasta and then refrigerate it. Just remember to bake or heat it again until it’s steaming hot if you’ve allowed it to cool completely.
What can I serve with it?
This hearty dish pairs well with crisp vegetables or a mixed green salad. If you’re feeling indulgent, garlic bread makes for a perfect side.
Is this dish freezable?
Yes, this mac & cheese freezes well! Just ensure it’s in a suitable freezer container and thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Can I use different proteins?
Definitely! Ground turkey or skillet-sautéed chickpeas are great alternatives for those looking for lighter options, and they don’t lose any flavor.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. Start with mild paprika and chili flakes and increase them as you taste during the cooking process.
With this wonderful dish of high-protein creamy philly cheesesteak mac & cheese, you will satisfy all your comfort food cravings while still feeling good about what you’re eating. Enjoy being both indulgent and smart with your meal choices!
High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese
Ingredients
Method
- Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente. Reserve 125ml pasta water, then drain.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté garlic, onion, and peppers for 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Crumble in the beef (or turkey/chickpeas). Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned, breaking it up. Drain excess fat if needed. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream cheese, mozzarella, and cheese slices. Melt into a silky sauce.
- Add cooked pasta and reserved pasta water. Stir until every noodle is coated in that creamy, cheesy goodness. Adjust the sauce thickness as needed.