A High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Recipe
High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the classic flavors of a cheesesteak with the creamy texture of mac and cheese. This meal is packed with protein, making it perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty dish while still being mindful of their nutritional needs. With ground beef bringing in the protein and cream cheese creating that smooth, rich sauce, you will love every bite. Let’s explore why this recipe is worth making and how you can create it in your own kitchen.
Why Make This Recipe
High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese is not just a meal; it is an experience. First, it’s a delightful fusion that blends the beloved cheesesteak flavors with creamy pasta. This means you can have the comfort of mac and cheese without sacrificing taste or texture.
Another reason to make this recipe is its nutritious elements. Using lean ground beef or turkey makes it high in protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, chickpeas can easily replace the meat while still providing robust protein content.
In addition, this dish is highly customizable. You can adjust the veggies, spices, and even the type of cheese, making it a versatile dish that suits various taste preferences. Whether you’re cooking for family or simply want a single serving for yourself, this recipe is easy to adapt for any occasion.
How to Make High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese
To create this mouthwatering dish, follow the steps outlined below. It’s straightforward and requires no advanced cooking skills, making it accessible for all cooks.
Ingredients
For this delicious High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 800g lean ground beef (or turkey/chickpeas)
- 20g butter (or olive oil)
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 100g chopped white onion
- 75g each of red, green & yellow bell peppers (or any mix!)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Paprika, to taste
- Chili flakes, to taste
- 140g light cream cheese
- 50g shredded mozzarella
- 3–4 light cheese slices (or your favorite melting cheese)
- 125ml reserved pasta water
- 240g dry macaroni (whole wheat or chickpea pasta for a protein boost)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
Cook Pasta: Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Add the macaroni and cook until it’s al dente. Make sure to read the package instructions for the best cooking time. Once cooked, reserve 125ml of the pasta water, then drain the rest of the water.
Sauté Veggies: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic, chopped onion, and bell peppers. Sauté these veggies for about 4–5 minutes or until they are softened but still vibrant in color.
Add Beef: Crumble the lean ground beef into the skillet. Cook for around 5–7 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks. Make sure to check for any excess fat; if there is, feel free to drain it out. Season the mixture generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes to taste.
Make it Creamy: After the beef is cooked through, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and cheese slices. Mix until all the cheeses melt into a smooth and silky sauce, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Bring it Together: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with the reserved pasta water. Stir everything together until every noodle is luckily coated in that creamy, cheesy goodness. If you find the sauce too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding more reserved pasta water as needed.
How to Serve High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese
Serving your High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese is just as enjoyable as making it. You can dish it out immediately after cooking while hot and gooey. Consider garnishing it with fresh parsley for an added pop of color and flavor.
For a complete meal, pair it with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the mac and cheese. You can also serve it family-style in a large bowl and let guests help themselves, or spoon it into individual bowls for a more elegant presentation.
How to Store High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese
If you have leftovers, they can be stored easily in your refrigerator. First, let the mac and cheese cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer it into an airtight container. This dish can last in the fridge for about 3-5 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the cheese sauce has thickened, you can add a splash of milk or more reserved pasta water to thin it out as you reheat.
Tips to Make High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese
Choose the Right Pasta: While traditional macaroni works great, consider using whole wheat or chickpea pasta for extra protein. These alternatives will give you a health boost and complement the recipe well.
Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to mix your favorite veggies into the dish. Fresh mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini can be great additions that enhance the nutritional value without affecting the flavor.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer it spicier, don’t hesitate to add more chili flakes or even some hot sauce. On the other hand, you can skip the spices altogether if you like a milder flavor.
Experiment with Cheeses: While the recipe suggests light cream cheese and mozzarella, you can try using pepper jack, gouda, or cheddar for different flavor profiles. Each cheese can change the overall taste of the dish.
Top with Breadcrumbs: For a crisp topping, sprinkle some seasoned breadcrumbs on top before baking it in the oven for a few minutes. The crunchy texture adds a nice contrast to the creamy pasta.
Variation
If you want to mix things up, consider making a different version of this creamy mac and cheese by swapping out the meat for chicken or turkey. A loaded veggie mac and cheese could also be made by replacing the meat with a blend of your favorite vegetables, like spinach, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes. Additionally, adding jalapeños or green chilies can give it a nice kick, balancing the creaminess.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the meal in advance. Just complete up to the point of mixing the pasta and sauce. Store the components separately and combine them right before serving.
Q2: Can I freeze this High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese?
Yes, it can be frozen. Allow it to cool, then place it in an airtight container. It should last for 2-3 months in the freezer. Reheat it in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!
Q3: How can I make this dish lower in calories?
You can use leaner protein options, like ground turkey or chickpeas, and choose low-fat versions of the cheeses. Reducing the amount of butter or oil can also help lower calories without sacrificing flavor.
Enjoy your cooking adventure with this High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese recipe, and don’t forget to have fun while making it!
High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese
Ingredients
Method
- Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Add the macaroni and cook until it’s al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve 125ml of the pasta water, then drain the rest.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, onion, and bell peppers. Sauté for about 4–5 minutes until softened but still vibrant.
- Crumble the lean ground beef into the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes. Drain any excess fat.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and cheese slices. Mix until the cheeses melt into a smooth sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir until everything is coated in the creamy sauce. Adjust the sauce consistency with more reserved water if necessary.