Go Back
HIGH-PROTEIN CREAMY PHILLY CHEESESTEAK MAC centered hero view, clean and uncluttered
Olivia Farnsworth

High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac Easy Weeknight Dinner

This High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac is a flavorful and quick recipe perfect for an easy dinner or weeknight meal. Packed with wholesome ingredients and comfort-food vibes, it's a family dinner winner that combines nutrition with rich, creamy cheesiness.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz Dry Macaroni Whole wheat or chickpea pasta can be used
  • 1 lb Lean Ground Beef Can be swapped with ground turkey or chickpeas
  • 1 cup Chopped White Onion Yellow onion works well as a substitute
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic Use freshly minced for maximum flavor
  • 2 cups Bell Peppers (Red, Green & Yellow) Use any mix based on preference
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative
  • 8 oz Light Cream Cheese Regular cream cheese can be used for a richer sauce
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Any favorite melting cheese can substitute
  • 4 slices Light Cheese Slices Any good melting cheese slice will do
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon Chili Flakes Adjust to taste
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Optional for garnish

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni until just tender, about 8 to 10 minutes. Save about 125ml of the pasta water then drain the pasta.
  2. Heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped onion, and bell peppers and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
  3. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as you cook. Let it brown evenly for 5 to 7 minutes then drain any extra fat. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.
  4. Turn the heat down to low and mix in the cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and cheese slices. Stir continuously until the cheeses are completely melted and creamy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  5. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheesy beef mixture, adding reserved pasta water gradually until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency. Stir well to coat everything.
  6. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and adjust seasoning before serving for the best flavor.

Notes

  • To avoid graininess in the cheese sauce, keep the heat low when melting the cheeses. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking before serving.