High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese

Why Make This Recipe

High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese combines the comfort of classic mac and cheese with the hearty flavors of a Philly cheesesteak. This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with protein, making it a filling meal for anyone. Whether you’re looking for a family dinner or a tasty dish to impress friends, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying.

How to Make High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese

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 = protein boost)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

1️⃣ Cook Pasta: Boil the macaroni in salted water until it’s al dente. Reserve 125ml of the pasta water, then drain the rest.

2️⃣ Sauté Veggies: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped onion, and bell peppers. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until they are softened.

3️⃣ Add Beef: Crumble in the ground beef (or turkey/chickpeas) and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks. If there’s excess fat, drain it off. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes to taste.

4️⃣ Make it Creamy: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and cheese slices. Allow them to melt together, creating a silky sauce.

5️⃣ Bring it Together: Add the cooked pasta and the reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir everything together until every noodle is coated in the creamy, cheesy goodness. Adjust the sauce thickness as needed.

How to Serve High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese

For serving, scoop generous portions onto plates or bowls and top with fresh parsley for a burst of color. This dish pairs nicely with a simple green salad or garlic bread. Enjoy it warm and creamy!

How to Store High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese

To store leftovers, let the mac and cheese cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. For reheating, you can use the microwave or stovetop; just add a splash of water to restore creaminess.

Tips to Make High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese

• For an extra protein boost, consider adding beans or extra cheese.
• Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste; add more chili flakes for heat or a little more cream cheese for creaminess.
• If you want a crispy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before baking in the oven for a few minutes.

Variation

You can easily switch up the protein source or the types of vegetables used in this dish. Try adding mushrooms or spinach for added flavor and nutrition. Using different types of pasta can also change the texture and boost the protein content.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Whole wheat or chickpea pasta works great and increases the protein in your dish.

2. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The creamy cheese and familiar flavors make it a hit with kids and adults alike.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

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