High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese is a delightful dish that combines the best of both worlds: creamy, cheesy goodness and the flavors of a classic cheesesteak. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for any night of the week.
This dish is not only tasty but also packed with protein. It’s a fantastic way to please everyone at the dinner table. The creamy sauce and tender pasta make each bite comforting and satisfying.
Why You Will Love This Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese
This recipe is a dream come true for busy cooks. It’s quick to prepare and uses simple ingredients you probably already have. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, making it a hit with everyone, including picky eaters. Plus, it offers a nice protein boost, so you’ll feel good serving it to your family.
How to Make Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese
Making this dish is easy and fun. You will cook the pasta, sauté some veggies, and combine everything in one pot. This way, cleanup is a breeze!
What You Need
To make Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese, gather these 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
Step-by-Step
1️⃣ Cook Pasta: Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente. Reserve 125ml pasta water, then drain.
2️⃣ Sauté Veggies: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté garlic, onion, and peppers for 4–5 mins until softened.
3️⃣ Add Beef: Crumble in beef. Cook 5–7 mins, breaking it up. Drain excess fat if needed. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.
4️⃣ Make it Creamy: Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream cheese, mozzarella, and cheese slices. Melt into a silky sauce.
5️⃣ Bring it Together: Add cooked pasta and reserved pasta water. Stir until every noodle is coated in that creamy, cheesy goodness. Adjust sauce thickness as needed.
How to Serve Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese
This dish is best enjoyed warm. You could sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for color. Pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to balance the creaminess. It’s perfect for family dinners, game nights, or even a cozy night in.
How to Store Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese
To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should be good for about 3–4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water for moisture if needed.
Recipe Tips
- Timing: Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture.
- Texture: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more reserved pasta water until it’s creamy.
- Ingredient Swaps: Use ground turkey or chickpeas for a lighter option.
- Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Cheese Lovers: Add more cheese for an even richer flavor.
Variations & Swaps
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the meat for chickpeas or your favorite plant-based protein.
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or more chili flakes for a spicy twist.
- Extra Creaminess: Use a blend of cream cheese and sour cream for a tangy flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to the point of baking. Just refrigerate and bake it when you’re ready.
How do I freeze leftovers?
Let the dish cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
How can I reheat this meal?
Reheat in the microwave or a skillet. Add a bit of water or milk to keep it creamy and delicious.
What can I serve with this dish?
Try pairing it with a fresh salad, steamed veggies, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
What mistakes should I avoid?
Don’t overcook the pasta! It should be firm, as it will continue cooking in the sauce.
Enjoy making this cozy dish. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion!
Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 800 g lean ground beef (or turkey/chickpeas) Can substitute with turkey or chickpeas for a lighter option.
- 20 g butter (or olive oil)
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 100 g chopped white onion
- 75 g each red, green & yellow bell peppers (or any mix)
- to taste Salt, pepper, paprika & chili flakes
- 140 g light cream cheese
- 50 g shredded mozzarella
- 3–4 slices light cheese slices (or your fave melting cheese)
- 125 ml reserved pasta water
- 240 g dry macaroni (whole wheat or chickpea pasta = protein boost)
- Fresh parsley for garnish Optional for garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- 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 mins until softened.
- Crumble in beef. Cook for 5–7 mins, 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.
