High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mashup that’s easy to make and packed with protein. This creamy, cheesy dish features tender strips of steak, sautéed peppers and onions, all combined with perfectly cooked macaroni in a rich cheese sauce. It’s a one-pot wonder that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Pair it with my One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup with Bacon and Cheesy Toast for an even heartier meal.
Why You'll Love High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese - Easy Comfort Food for Weeknights
This High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese is a quick, easy, and family-friendly comfort food packed with flavor and protein. Perfect for weeknights!
- Loaded with protein from steak and cheese for a satisfying meal.
- Creamy, cheesy texture with tender veggies and perfectly cooked pasta.
- Easy one-pot prep reduces cleanup and saves time.
- Great as a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep option.
Ingredients for High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese - Easy Comfort Food for Weeknights
Steak: Ribeye gives great flavor and tenderness; sirloin is a leaner, budget-friendly substitute.Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for best flavor; mix with mozzarella for a milder taste, if preferred.
- Steak: Ribeye gives great flavor and tenderness; sirloin is a leaner, budget-friendly substitute.
- Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for best flavor; mix with mozzarella for a milder taste, if preferred.
Ingredient Note: Full measurements for High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese - Easy Comfort Food for Weeknights are listed in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese - Easy Comfort Food for Weeknights
Step 1 — Prep & Preheat
Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2 — Cook and Build Flavor
Sauté Veggies & Steak: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and bell peppers, sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook 1 more minute. Push veggies to the side, add steak strips, and cook quickly until just browned, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Remove from heat.
Step 3 — Finish, Taste, and Adjust
Make Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Sprinkle flour over the pan and stir to coat. Gradually whisk in beef broth and skim milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Add cream cheese and shredded cheddar; stir until melted and smooth.
Expert Tips for High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese - Easy Comfort Food for Weeknights
- Use freshly sliced steak for best texture and flavor.
- Do not overcook the pasta; al dente holds up better in the sauce.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky depth.
High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese - Easy Comfort Food for Weeknights
This High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese is a quick, easy, and family-friendly comfort food packed with flavor and protein. Perfect for weeknights!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye steak or sirloin
- 1 medium green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups shredded low-fat sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup reduced-fat cream cheese
- 2 cups skim milk
- 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
Optional Toppings
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Extra shredded cheese for topping
Instructions
How to Make High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Veggies & Steak: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and bell peppers, sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook 1 more minute. Push veggies to the side, add steak strips, and cook quickly until just browned, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Remove from heat.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Sprinkle flour over the pan and stir to coat. Gradually whisk in beef broth and skim milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Add cream cheese and shredded cheddar; stir until melted and smooth.
- Combine & Serve: Return steak and veggies to skillet, add cooked macaroni, and stir everything together gently to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Nutrition (per serving)
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended (texture changes).
- Serve/Reheat: Best chilled or at room temperature.
High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese - Easy Comfort Food for Weeknights FAQs
Yes! Prepare it up to the cheese sauce step, then refrigerate and combine just before reheating to keep it fresh and creamy.
You can use sirloin or even thinly sliced chicken breast for a leaner or more affordable option.
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
If your dish is dry, it might need more liquid or reheating with a little milk. Avoid overcooking the pasta and cheese sauce.
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- One-Pot Philly Cheesesteak Soup with Bacon and Cheesy Toast
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Before You Go
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