Ever sunk your spoon into a bowl of creamy mac and cheese that sends your taste buds into a happy dance? Imagine that same delight, but with the savory twist of a Philly cheesesteak. Intrigued? You should be! This High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese is not just a meal — it’s a cozy hug on a plate that you can whip up in a snap. Plus, it’s all made in one pan, so less time scrubbing dishes means more time devouring deliciousness!
Why Make This Recipe
Why settle for plain old mac and cheese when you can upgrade to something that sings? Here are a few reasons this dish deserves a spot on your dinner table:
- Quick and Easy: Seriously, you can whip this up faster than it takes to order takeout. Who needs delivery when you’ve got this creamy goodness?
- Family-Friendly: Kids will love it, and adults will secretly fight over leftovers (no judgment here!). It’s like a culinary peace treaty.
- One-Pan Wonder: Easy cleanup is always a win, right? You’re just a skillet away from cheesy bliss and a clean kitchen.
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics! Here’s what you’ll need to make this hearty dish:
- 800g lean ground beef (or turkey/chickpeas for a vegetarian twist)
- 20g butter (or olive oil)
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 100g chopped white onion
- 75g each red, green, & yellow bell peppers (feel free to mix it up!)
- 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 (try whole wheat or chickpea pasta for a protein boost)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
Ready to dive into the creamy goodness? Let’s get cooking!
1️⃣ Cook Pasta: Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente. Reserve 125ml of the pasta water, then drain.
2️⃣ Sauté Veggies: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté garlic, onion, & peppers for 4–5 minutes until softened.
3️⃣ Add Beef: Crumble in your chosen protein. Cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up as you go. Drain excess fat if needed, then season with salt, pepper, paprika, & chili flakes.
4️⃣ Make it Creamy: Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream cheese, mozzarella, & cheese slices. Let the magic happen as everything melds into a silky sauce.
5️⃣ Bring it Together: Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water. Stir until every noodle is coated in that creamy, cheesy goodness. Adjust sauce thickness to your liking!
How to Make High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese (Overview)
Alright, let’s break it down! First, cook the pasta until it’s just right — not too soft, not too chewy. While that’s happening, sauté your veggies in a skillet. Pro tip? Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference!
Then, add the ground beef or turkey and season everything to perfection. Next, cream it up by stirring in that fabulous cream cheese and cheese slices until it all melds into a dreamy sauce. Finally, add your pasta, toss it super well, and voilà! Dinner is served.
How to Serve High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese
Serve this mac and cheese in a deep bowl that lets the creamy sauce shine. Picture the beautiful colors of the bell peppers and cheese cascading over the noodles, all drenched in deliciousness. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of green that makes everything look Michelin star-worthy. Plus, the aroma? Oh my, it will have everyone coming to the kitchen like moths to a flame!
How to Store High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This dish keeps well in the fridge for about 3–5 days. Just store it in an airtight container. Want to freeze it? You totally can, but it works best if you leave out any fresh ingredients. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or gently on the stove with a splash of water to revive that creamy texture.
Tips to Make High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese
Here are a few handy tips to level up your cooking game:
- Ingredient Swaps: Got leftover chicken or veggies? Toss those in for a unique spin!
- Cook Pasta Right: Don’t overcook the pasta; it will continue cooking in the sauce.
- Customize Spices: Feel free to play around with spices; the more the merrier!
- Creamy Consistency: Add a little extra reserved pasta water if you like a more saucy dish.
Variation
Want to switch things up? How about a vegan version using chickpeas instead of beef, and dairy-free cream cheese? You can also add different toppings like crispy onion rings or jalapeños for an extra kick. The options are endless!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat or chickpea pasta not only adds protein but gives a nice twist in flavor and texture.
How can I make it vegetarian?
Swap the ground beef for chickpeas or lentils and use dairy-free cream cheese for a creamy, delicious, vegetarian meal.
How long can I freeze this dish?
You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before popping it into the freezer.
Now you’re all set! Get ready to indulge in this High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese that’s sure to become a family favorite! 📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 800 g lean ground beef (or turkey/chickpeas for a vegetarian twist) Choose your preferred protein.
- 20 g butter (or olive oil) For sautéing.
- 1 tbsp minced garlic Use fresh garlic for best flavor.
- 100 g chopped white onion Can substitute with yellow onion.
- 75 g red bell pepper Chopped, for added color and flavor.
- 75 g green bell pepper Chopped.
- 75 g yellow bell pepper Chopped.
- to taste Salt, pepper, paprika & chili flakes Adjust according to preference.
- 140 g light cream cheese For creaminess.
- 50 g shredded mozzarella For added cheesiness.
- 3-4 slices light cheese slices Or your favorite melting cheese.
- 125 ml reserved pasta water To adjust sauce consistency.
- 240 g dry macaroni Consider using whole wheat or chickpea pasta.
- to taste Fresh parsley for garnish Optional, for presentation.
Instructions
Cooking Pasta
- Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente. Reserve 125ml of the pasta water, then drain.
Sautéing Vegetables
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté garlic, onion, and peppers for 4-5 minutes until softened.
Adding Protein
- Crumble in your chosen protein. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up as you go. Drain excess fat if needed, then season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.
Making it Creamy
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream cheese, mozzarella, and cheese slices. Let everything meld into a silky sauce.
Bringing it Together
- Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water. Stir until every noodle is coated in the creamy sauce. Adjust sauce thickness as desired.
Notes
Printable Recipe Card
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