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HIGH PROTEIN CREAMY PHILLY CHEESESTEAK MAC centered hero view, clean and uncluttered
Yesica Andrews

High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac Easy Weeknight Dinner

This High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac is a perfect easy dinner option for busy weeknights. Packed with protein and a rich, creamy sauce, it makes a comforting family dinner that everyone will love. Ideal as a quick, flavorful comfort food meal on any hectic evening.
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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. Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil.
  2. Add dry macaroni to the boiling water and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes until tender but still firm to the bite.
  3. Before draining, scoop out around 125ml of the pasta water and set it aside.
  4. In a large skillet, melt 1 to 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  5. Add minced garlic, chopped onions, and bell peppers to the skillet and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
  6. Add the lean ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up and mixing it with the vegetables.
  7. Cook the meat thoroughly for 5 to 7 minutes, then drain any excess fat.
  8. Season the meat mixture with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes, stirring well.
  9. Turn the heat down to low and mix in light cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and cheese slices.
  10. Cook while stirring for 3 to 4 minutes until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes creamy.
  11. Add the cooked macaroni and reserved pasta water to the skillet, stirring until everything is evenly coated.
  12. Add more pasta water if needed to reach your preferred sauce consistency.
  13. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

Notes

  • Keep the heat low when incorporating the cheese to prevent it from becoming grainy. Taste and tweak the seasoning before plating to suit your preference.