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A delicious plate of High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Bliss

High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese Bliss

This creamy, high-protein mac and cheese is elevated with lean ground beef and colorful bell peppers for a delicious twist on a classic dish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 227 g Dry Macaroni
  • 454 g Lean Ground Beef Can be swapped with ground turkey or chickpeas
  • 150 g Chopped White Onion Yellow onion works well as a substitute
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic Use freshly minced for maximum flavor
  • 300 g Bell Peppers (Red, Green & Yellow) Use any mix based on preference
  • 28 g Butter Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative
  • 227 g Light Cream Cheese Regular cream cheese can be used for a richer sauce
  • 100 g Shredded Mozzarella
  • 4 slices Light Cheese Slices Any good melting cheese slice will do
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Pepper
  • 1 tsp Paprika
  • 0.5 tsp Chili Flakes Adjust to taste
  • 60 g Fresh Parsley Optional for garnish

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet

Method
 

  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the dry macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve approximately 125ml of the pasta water before draining it.
  2. In a large skillet, melt 1-2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic, chopped onion, and bell peppers. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until tender and translucent.
  3. Crumble in the lean ground beef, stirring into the vegetables. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking apart as it browns. Drain excess fat and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.
  4. Reduce heat to low, stir in light cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and cheese slices. Stir until melted and creamy, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Add cooked macaroni and reserved pasta water to the skillet, mixing until all is coated in the creamy sauce. Adjust thickness with more pasta water if necessary.

Notes

For an extra kick, add more chili flakes or serve with a side salad for a complete meal.