High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Mac n Cheese is the perfect mash-up of two comfort food favorites, combining creamy macaroni and cheese with the bold, savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak, all while packing in extra protein. This recipe is rich, cheesy, and satisfying, yet balanced enough for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or post-workout meal when you want comfort food that actually fuels you.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Mac n Cheese
This dish delivers everything you crave in mac and cheese with a flavorful upgrade. Tender beef, sautéed peppers and onions, and a silky cheese sauce coat every bite of pasta. Using high-protein pasta and protein-boosted dairy means you get a hearty, filling meal without relying on excessive butter or heavy cream. It’s family-friendly, customizable, and comes together in about 30 minutes, making it practical as well as delicious.
Ingredients for High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Mac n Cheese
Pasta
- High-protein elbow macaroni or shells
- Salt for pasta water
Cheesesteak Filling
- Lean beef (sirloin, flank steak, or shaved beef)
- Olive oil or cooking spray
- Green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- Onion, thinly sliced
- Garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper
High-Protein Cheese Sauce
- Reduced-fat milk or high-protein milk
- Greek yogurt or blended cottage cheese
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, provolone, or a mix)
- Paprika or garlic powder (optional)
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
High-protein pasta made from chickpeas, lentils, or protein-enriched wheat works best and holds up well in creamy sauces. Lean beef keeps the dish lighter, but chicken breast, ground turkey, or even sautéed mushrooms can be used instead. Greek yogurt or cottage cheese adds creaminess and protein without making the sauce heavy. If you prefer extra stretch and melt, provolone is very traditional, while cheddar adds sharpness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the high-protein pasta according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small splash of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.
Step 2 – Cook the Cheesesteak Filling
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned and just cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside. In the same pan, add onions and bell peppers and sauté until softened and lightly caramelized, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Return the beef to the skillet and season with salt and pepper.
Step 3 – Make the High-Protein Cheese Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and pour the milk into the skillet. Stir in Greek yogurt or blended cottage cheese until smooth, then gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring constantly until melted and creamy. Sprinkle in paprika or garlic powder if using.
Step 4 – Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet and stir until every piece is coated in the sauce. If the mixture seems thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water or milk until you reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Step 5 – Serve
Serve hot with extra cheese on top or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
Slice beef thinly against the grain for the most tender texture. Don’t overcook high-protein pasta, as it can become too soft when mixed with sauce. Blend cottage cheese completely smooth for the creamiest result. Add cheese gradually over low heat to prevent graininess. Let the finished dish rest for a minute before serving so the sauce thickens naturally.
Flavor Variations
Add sautéed mushrooms for extra umami flavor. Use pepper jack cheese for a mild kick of heat. Stir in spinach at the end for added veggies. Swap beef for chicken or turkey for a lighter version. Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce for deeper cheesesteak flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty on its own but pairs well with a crisp green salad, roasted broccoli, or steamed green beans. For casual gatherings, serve it straight from the skillet with crusty bread on the side.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Freezing is possible, but the sauce texture is best when enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Mac n Cheese
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Mac n Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mash-up, combining creamy mac and cheese with savory cheesesteak flavors while delivering a satisfying protein boost.
Ingredients
- High-protein elbow macaroni or shells
- Salt for pasta water
- Lean beef (sirloin, flank steak, or shaved beef)
- Olive oil or cooking spray
- Green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- Onion, thinly sliced
- Garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper
- Reduced-fat milk or high-protein milk
- Greek yogurt or blended cottage cheese
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, provolone, or a mix)
- Paprika or garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the high-protein pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the beef until browned and just cooked through, then remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté onions and bell peppers until softened, add garlic and cook briefly, then return the beef and season with salt and pepper.
- Lower heat to medium and stir in the milk, Greek yogurt or blended cottage cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add shredded cheese, stirring constantly until melted and creamy, then add paprika or garlic powder if using.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and stir until fully coated in the sauce, adjusting consistency with milk or pasta water if needed.
- Taste, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.
Notes
Use high-protein pasta and lean beef for best texture and nutrition. Add cheese gradually over low heat to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ~480 kcal | ~38 g | ~45 g | ~14 g | ~6 g | ~620 mg |
FAQ About High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Mac n Cheese
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free high-protein pasta made from chickpeas or lentils and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Is this good for meal prep?
Absolutely. It reheats well and stays filling, making it ideal for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Can I make it extra creamy?
You can add a bit more milk or an extra spoonful of Greek yogurt, just be sure to warm it gently so the sauce stays smooth.
What’s the best cheese to use?
A mix of provolone and cheddar gives the most balanced flavor, combining classic cheesesteak melt with mac and cheese richness.
Final Thoughts
High Protein Philly Cheesesteak Mac n Cheese proves that comfort food and nutrition can coexist beautifully. With bold flavors, creamy texture, and a serious protein boost, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to whenever you want something cozy, satisfying, and practical.