There’s something incredibly satisfying about combining the beloved flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with creamy mac and cheese, and that’s exactly what this High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese recipe delivers. From the very first bite, you’ll taste tender slices of lean beef or sirloin steak mingling with sweet green pepper ribbons and soft onions, all swaddled in a cozy blanket of reduced-fat cheddar, provolone, and a touch of Greek yogurt. The whole grain elbow macaroni gives each forkful extra texture and fiber, turning a classic comfort dish into a protein-packed powerhouse. With just a 15-minute prep and 30-minute cook time, you’ll have a rich, satisfying meal on the table in under an hour—perfect for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend dinner.
In every spoonful, you’ll notice the subtle warmth of paprika matched by hearty beefy depth and aromatic garlic. Skim milk and all-purpose flour unite in a simple roux that thickens into a velvety sauce, while the combination of cheeses transforms into an indulgent yet balanced coating for your pasta. Whether you’re fueling up for an active afternoon or winding down after a long day, this dish checks all the boxes: it’s comforting, flavorful, and brimming with 480 calories of goodness per serving. It’s not just dinner—it’s a full-on flavor experience that proves healthy-ish food can still make your taste buds dance.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN HIGH-PROTEIN PHILLY CHEESESTEAK MAC & CHEESE
Before rolling up your sleeves, let’s take a closer look at the stars of the show. Every ingredient in this recipe plays a key role, from providing structure and creaminess to packing in protein and flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Whole grain or protein-enriched elbow macaroni
Offers a hearty, nutty texture and boosts the fiber and protein content compared to regular pasta, making each bowl more filling and nutritious.
- Olive oil
Provides a smooth, fruity base for sautéing the meat and vegetables while adding heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Lean ground beef or thinly sliced sirloin steak
Delivers the iconic Philly cheesesteak taste and infuses the dish with high-quality protein and savory richness.
- Onion
Adds a sweet, aromatic depth when softened, complementing the beef and rounding out the flavor profile.
- Green bell pepper
Contributes a crisp, fresh bite and a pop of color, balancing the richness of the cheese sauce.
- Garlic cloves
Impart a warm, pungent kick that elevates every layer of flavor, from the meat to the sauce.
- Salt
Enhances all the natural flavors, making each ingredient shine on its own and in harmony.
- Black pepper
Adds subtle heat and complexity, ensuring the dish isn’t one-note.
- Paprika
Brings a gentle smokiness and vibrant color, echoing classic cheesesteak spices.
- Skim milk
Forms the basis of the creamy sauce without extra calories, allowing the cheeses to melt smoothly.
- All-purpose flour
Thickens the milk into a luscious, velvety sauce, ensuring even cheese distribution.
- Reduced-fat cheddar cheese
Provides sharp, tangy flavor and gooey texture while keeping the dish lighter.
- Reduced-fat provolone cheese
Offers a milder, slightly sweet note that blends seamlessly with cheddar for a multi-dimensional cheese sauce.
- Greek yogurt
Adds a hint of tang and extra creaminess, balancing out the richness of the cheeses.
- Fresh parsley
Gives a bright, herbal garnish that cuts through the creaminess and lends a fresh finish.
HOW TO MAKE HIGH-PROTEIN PHILLY CHEESESTEAK MAC & CHEESE
This recipe unfolds in a few simple stages: cooking the pasta, preparing the meat and veggies, crafting the cheese sauce, and bringing it all together. Follow these detailed steps to ensure every element shines and harmonizes into a cheesy, protein-rich masterpiece.
1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s tender yet al dente. Once done, drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside in the colander to keep any excess water from diluting the sauce.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the lean ground beef or sliced sirloin steak and sauté until the meat is evenly browned and no longer pink, breaking it up as you go if using ground beef. Remove the cooked meat from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft, translucent, and fragrant—about 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Season everything with salt, black pepper, and paprika, and stir well to coat each piece evenly. Once combined, remove the skillet from the heat and keep it warm.
5. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the skim milk and flour over medium heat. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens slightly and starts to bubble around the edges.
6. Reduce the heat to low, then gradually stir in both the shredded cheddar and provolone cheeses. Keep stirring until the cheeses melt completely into a smooth, creamy sauce. Once homogeneous, fold in the Greek yogurt for extra tang and silkiness.
7. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring until every noodle is generously coated in cheesy goodness.
8. Add the beef and vegetable mixture to the cheesy macaroni and fold gently until everything is evenly distributed.
9. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld and the dish to heat through completely.
10. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired for a pop of color and brightness.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR HIGH-PROTEIN PHILLY CHEESESTEAK MAC & CHEESE
Elevating this Philly cheesesteak mac and cheese to table-ready status is all about pairing and presentation. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or impressing friends at game night, these serving ideas will make your dish stand out.
- Crisp Side Salad: Balance the richness by serving alongside a simple green salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette. The crunch and acidity will brighten each forkful, while you can sprinkle a few shaved carrots or cucumber ribbons on top.
- Spicy Kick: Offer a small dish of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños so guests can add extra heat. A dash of chili oil drizzled on top also makes for a fun customizable twist.
- Oven-Baked Crunch: After assembling, transfer the mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish, top with a light layer of panko breadcrumbs mixed with grated cheese, and broil for 2–3 minutes. You’ll get a golden-brown crust that adds texture and visual appeal.
- Meal-Prep Containers: Portion into individual airtight containers for grab-and-go lunches. Simply reheat in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of milk to revive the creaminess.
HOW TO STORE HIGH-PROTEIN PHILLY CHEESESTEAK MAC & CHEESE
Making a big batch means you’ll want to keep it tasting fresh for days or even weeks. Proper storage techniques ensure the pasta stays creamy, the meat doesn’t dry out, and the flavors remain vibrant.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container
Allow the dish to cool to room temperature, then transfer into a sealed container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Freeze in portions
Divide cooled mac and cheese into freezer-safe bags or containers, squeezing out excess air. Label each with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat gently
To warm refrigerated or thawed portions, heat in a skillet over medium-low, stirring often. Add a little skim milk to loosen the sauce and bring back that glossy texture without overcooking the pasta.
- Store garnish separately
Keep chopped parsley or any fresh herbs in a small container or bag, refrigerated. Add just before serving to preserve its color and freshness without wilting.
CONCLUSION
This High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese brings together the best of both worlds: the savory, satisfying bite of a classic cheesesteak and the comforting warmth of creamy macaroni and cheese. By opting for lean beef or sirloin, reduced-fat cheeses, and skim milk, you get a dish that’s indulgent yet mindful of nutrition, clocking in at 480 calories per serving. It’s a beginner-friendly recipe that requires just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking, making it perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends alike. The kaleidoscope of flavors—from the sweet onions and crisp peppers to the gentle smokiness of paprika—creates a truly comforting experience that’s sure to become a household favorite.
Feel free to print this article and save it for later reference or tuck it into your digital recipe collection. Below, you’ll find a handy FAQ section to answer any additional questions you might have about ingredient swaps, storage tips, or flavor adjustments. If you test out this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Please leave a comment, share your favorite tweaks, or ask any questions if you need help. Your feedback not only helps me refine future recipes but also builds a friendly community of fellow home cooks who love big flavors and hearty, high-protein meals. Happy cooking!
High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese
Description
Savor the flavors of Philly cheesesteak in every bite of this creamy mac and cheese. Packed with protein, veggies, and a cheesy sauce, it’s a comfort food classic reimagined.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
-
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef or sliced steak, and sauté until browned. Remove the meat from the skillet and set aside.
-
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are soft and aromatic, around 5-7 minutes.
-
Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika, stirring well to combine all the ingredients. Remove from heat and set aside.
-
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the skim milk and flour over medium heat until the mixture begins to thicken.
-
Reduce the heat to low, and gradually stir in the cheddar and provolone cheeses until they melt completely. Once smooth, stir in the Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
-
Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheesy sauce, stirring until the pasta is fully coated.
-
Add the beef and vegetable mix to the cheesy macaroni, folding together until well integrated.
-
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld.
-
Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
Note
- For added heat, consider including some red pepper flakes.
- Substitute beef with chicken or turkey for a different protein source.
- Whole grain pasta not only boosts the fiber content but also adds a delightful texture.
- This dish is a comforting blend of classic Philly cheesesteak flavors with creamy macaroni.
