Go Back
High-protein creamy Philly cheesesteak mac and cheese in cast iron skillet with melted cheese

High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese

A protein-packed twist on classic comfort food combining Philly cheesesteak flavors with creamy mac and cheese in one skillet
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

  • 1.75 lbs lean ground beef 90% lean or higher
  • 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic
  • 0.5 cup white onion chopped
  • 0.75 cup mixed bell peppers red, green, yellow - diced
  • 1 tsp salt to taste
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes to taste
  • 5 oz light cream cheese softened
  • 0.5 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 3 slices light American cheese or favorite melting cheese
  • 0.5 cup pasta cooking water reserved
  • 8 oz whole wheat macaroni pasta
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Large pot for pasta
  • Colander
  • Measuring cup

Method
 

  1. Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water in a measuring cup.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic and chopped onions for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Add the diced bell peppers and cook for another 4-5 minutes until softened.
  3. Crumble the ground beef directly into the skillet, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Cook for 5-7 minutes until completely browned. Drain excess fat if needed, then season with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
  4. Reduce heat to low. Stir in the softened cream cheese first, followed by the mozzarella and torn American cheese slices. Stir gently until everything melts into a smooth, creamy sauce.
  5. Add the cooked pasta and gradually pour in the reserved pasta water, starting with a few tablespoons. Toss everything together until each noodle is coated. Add more pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.

Notes

Always reserve pasta water before draining - it's essential for sauce consistency. Keep heat low when melting cheese to prevent curdling. This recipe is perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day.