Who doesn’t love the ultimate comfort meal with a twist?
Imagine rich, creamy macaroni adorned with juicy beef, piled high with colorful sautéed veggies, all swimming in a sea of melted cheese. Sounds divine, right? This High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Bliss not only satisfies those cheesy cravings but also adds a robust protein punch, making it an easy, wholesome choice for any dinner night. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means fewer dishes and more time for you to kick back!
Why make this recipe
Let’s face it: we all want quick, delicious meals that don’t turn our kitchens into a war zone. This creamy mac and cheese checks all the boxes:
- Easy cleanup: One pan means less mess and more Netflix.
- Affordable: Budget-friendly ingredients that pack a flavor punch.
- Family-friendly: Even picky eaters won’t resist this cheesy goodness!
If you’re looking for a meal that feels indulgent but won’t leave your wallet empty, this is it! 🍽️
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 8 oz Dry Macaroni
- 1 lb Lean Ground Beef
- 1 cup Chopped White Onion
- 2 cloves Minced Garlic
- 2 cups Bell Peppers (Red, Green & Yellow)
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 8 oz Light Cream Cheese
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella
- 4 slices Light Cheese Slices
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Chili Flakes
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (optional for garnish)
Directions
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Veggies: In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, stirring until fragrant (about 2 minutes). Toss in the bell peppers and cook until softened.
- Brown the Meat: Push the veggies to one side and add ground beef to the pan. Cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.
- Mix in Goodness: Stir in the cooked pasta, then add the cream cheese, mozzarella, and cheese slices. Mix until everything is gooey and creamy.
- Garnish & Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Dig in while it’s hot!
How to make High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Bliss (Overview)
Craving that comfort dish? Let’s break it down. Start by boiling the macaroni—simple enough, right? While that’s bubbling, sauté some onions and garlic in butter until they make your kitchen smell like heaven. Toss in colorful bell peppers for a splash of color and flavor, then brown your beef (or turkey, if you’re feeling fancy).
After that, combine your pasta with a cheesy medley—don’t skimp on the cream cheese! Pro tip: Mix until everything turns into a creamy dream—trust me, it’s worth it.
How to serve High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Bliss
When it comes to serving, this dish shines in a big, colorful bowl garnished with fresh parsley. Picture this: a creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy blend of pasta under a golden crust of melted cheese. Serve it alongside a light salad to balance the richness or your favorite garlic bread for a crunch factor. The aroma wafting through your home will have everyone racing to the table! 🥗
How to store High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Bliss
Leftovers? Yes, please! This creamy delight keeps well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. If you’re planning ahead, it freezes beautifully for up to 2-3 months. When reheating, just add a splash of milk to regain that creamy texture.
Tips to make High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Bliss
- Don’t rush the sauté: Take your time with the onions and garlic for maximum depth of flavor.
- Cheese overload: Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends—sharp cheddar or pepper jack, anyone?
- Add more veggies: Zucchini or spinach can sneak in some extra nutrients without compromising taste.
Variation
Want to switch it up? Try making it vegan by swapping ground beef for lentils or chickpeas, using almond cream cheese, and dairy-free cheese. You can also add a kick with jalapeños or swap out bell peppers for roasted red peppers for a smoky vibe.
FAQs
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just replace the macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta.
How can I make it ahead of time?
You can prepare everything up to mixing in the pasta and cheese, store it in the fridge, and then add the cheese and bake just before serving!
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! The cheesy goodness and fun ingredients make it a hit with kids. Who doesn’t love macaroni and cheese with a twist?
đź“Ś Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Bliss
Ingredients
Method
- Begin by boiling the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, stirring until fragrant (about 2 minutes). Toss in the bell peppers and cook until softened.
- Push the veggies to one side and add ground beef to the pan. Cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.
- Stir in the cooked pasta, then add the cream cheese, mozzarella, and cheese slices. Mix until everything is gooey and creamy.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve immediately.