I still remember the first time I made this High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Mac Recipe. As the garlic and peppers sizzled, the kitchen filled with that amazing aroma that instantly reminded me of a cheesesteak sandwich, but in mac and cheese form!
I knew I was onto something special—creamy, cheesy, and packed with protein! After a few tweaks and taste tests, it became a weekly favorite in my house. If you love comfort food with a protein boost, you’re going to adore this recipe.
You can also enjoy similar fresh flavors in a Fennel Orange Pomegranate Salad with Honey Citrus Vinaigrette Recipe.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this hearty and flavorful dish—ingredients explained so you know exactly why each one matters.
For the Pasta
- 8 oz dry macaroni — classic pasta works best, but whole wheat or chickpea pasta can increase protein and fiber.
- Reserved pasta water — helps loosen the sauce and makes it cling beautifully to the pasta, so don’t discard it.
For the Filling
- 1 lb lean ground beef — delivers strong flavor and protein while keeping the dish filling without being overly greasy.
- 1 cup chopped white onion — adds sweetness and depth as it cooks down.
- 2 cloves minced garlic — fresh garlic creates richer flavor compared to powder.
- 2 cups mixed bell peppers — adds color, sweetness, and texture that mimics classic Philly cheesesteak toppings. You can also add extra vegetables inspired by a Mediterranean Stuffed Zucchini Boats Recipe to enhance the meal.
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter — enhances richness while helping vegetables cook evenly.
- 8 oz light cream cheese — creates a creamy texture without excessive heaviness.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella — melts smoothly and gives stretchy cheesiness. Grate fresh cheese for best melt.
- 4 slices light cheese slices — melt quickly and help thicken the sauce evenly.
For Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt — balances flavors throughout the dish.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper — adds mild heat and depth.
- 1 teaspoon paprika — brings a subtle smoky flavor.
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes — optional heat; adjust to taste.
- ¼ cup chopped parsley — optional garnish that brightens the final dish.
Note: These quantities make approximately 4 servings.
Variations
You can easily tweak this dish depending on dietary needs or flavor preferences.
- Dairy-free version: Use plant-based cream cheese and dairy-free shredded cheese alternatives.
- Gluten-free option: Swap macaroni for gluten-free or chickpea pasta.
- Extra vegetables: Mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini add more nutrients and texture.
- Spicy upgrade: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Cheese swaps: Pepper jack adds spice, while gouda adds a smoky twist.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Equipment You Need
- Large pot — for boiling pasta evenly.
- Large skillet — allows everything to cook in one pan for easy cleanup.
- Wooden spoon — ideal for stirring without scratching cookware.
How to Make High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Mac Recipe?
This recipe comes together quickly with simple steps, making it perfect for busy evenings. Follow the process from cooking pasta to combining the creamy sauce for the best results. Each step builds layers of flavor, so take your time for the best texture and taste.
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni until just al dente. Before draining, scoop out some pasta water and set it aside. This reserved water helps adjust sauce consistency later.
Sauté Vegetables
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat and add onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook until softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally so nothing burns. This step creates the base flavor.
Add the Meat
Add ground beef to the skillet and break it apart while cooking. Continue until browned and fully cooked, then season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes. Proper seasoning here makes the entire dish taste richer.
Make the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat and stir in cream cheese, mozzarella, and cheese slices. Mix gently until melted and smooth, ensuring the sauce doesn’t overheat and separate.
Bring Everything Together
Add cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water into the skillet. Stir until noodles are coated evenly, adding more water if needed to achieve a creamy, silky sauce.
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
After making this recipe many times, here are tricks that always improve the result:
- I keep the heat low when adding cheese so the sauce stays smooth and never grainy.
- I always taste the sauce at the end and adjust seasoning if needed.
- I use freshly grated cheese whenever possible since it melts better.
- I add a splash of milk when reheating leftovers to restore creaminess.
How to Serve High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Mac Recipe?
Serve this mac hot in wide bowls so the creamy sauce stays evenly distributed. Sprinkle chopped parsley or extra shredded cheese on top for presentation. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or warm garlic bread for dipping. Adding fresh cherry tomatoes on the side brightens the plate visually.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a general nutritional snapshot per serving:
- Calories: ~500 kcal
- Protein: ~30 g
- Carbohydrates: ~60 g
- Fat: ~20 g
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing in the Fridge:
Allow the dish to cool completely before storing in airtight containers. It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Freezing works best when portions are sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating:
Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a little milk or water to bring back creaminess.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This dish combines comfort food with a protein boost, making it both satisfying and practical.
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners with minimal effort.
- Packed with protein, helping keep you full longer while still feeling indulgent.
- Highly customizable with proteins, cheeses, and vegetables of your choice.
- One-pan convenience means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
- Combines two favorites—Philly cheesesteak and mac & cheese—into one comforting dish.
Enjoy this creamy, protein-packed High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Mac whenever you want comforting food that still fits into a balanced meal plan!
High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Mac Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni until just al dente. Before draining, scoop out some pasta water and set it aside. This reserved water helps adjust sauce consistency later.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat and add onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook until softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally so nothing burns. This step creates the base flavor.
- Add ground beef to the skillet and break it apart while cooking. Continue until browned and fully cooked, then season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes. Proper seasoning here makes the entire dish taste richer.
- Lower the heat and stir in cream cheese, mozzarella, and cheese slices. Mix gently until melted and smooth, ensuring the sauce doesn’t overheat and separate.
- Add cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water into the skillet. Stir until noodles are coated evenly, adding more water if needed to achieve a creamy, silky sauce.
Notes
- I keep the heat low when adding cheese so the sauce stays smooth and never grainy.
- I always taste the sauce at the end and adjust seasoning if needed.
- I use freshly grated cheese whenever possible since it melts better.
- I add a splash of milk when reheating leftovers to restore creaminess.