High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Mac (Printable Format)
Cheesy macaroni combined with lean beef, peppers, and a creamy sauce for a satisfying Philly-inspired meal.
# Needed Ingredients:
→ Main Components
01 -
1.75 pounds lean ground beef or turkey or chickpeas
02 -
8.5 ounces dry macaroni, preferably whole wheat or chickpea pasta
03 -
5 ounces light cream cheese
04 -
1.75 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
05 -
0.75 ounces unsalted butter or olive oil
→ Vegetables and Aromatics
06 -
3.5 ounces chopped white onion
07 -
2.6 ounces each red bell pepper, green bell pepper, yellow bell pepper
08 -
1 tablespoon minced garlic
→ Seasonings
09 -
Salt to taste
10 -
Black pepper to taste
11 -
Paprika to taste
12 -
Chili flakes to taste
# Preparation Steps:
01 -
Boil macaroni in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of cooking water, then drain the pasta.
02 -
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic, chopped onion, and bell peppers. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until vegetables are just softened.
03 -
Stir in ground beef, turkey, or chickpeas. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking up meat with a spatula, until evenly browned. Drain any excess fat. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.
04 -
Reduce heat to low. Add cream cheese and shredded mozzarella. Stir continuously until all cheese is fully melted and the mixture is creamy.
05 -
Add cooked macaroni and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss thoroughly to coat pasta with sauce, ensuring all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
# Supplementary Details:
01 -
Whole wheat or chickpea pasta increases nutritional value and protein content.