Description
This High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese combines the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with creamy, cheesy whole wheat pasta. Made with lean ground beef or chicken, caramelized onions, sweet bell peppers, and a smooth cheese sauce, this hearty and nutritious dish offers a protein-packed twist on traditional mac and cheese that’s perfect for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb lean ground beef or chicken
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Cheese Sauce
- 1 1/2 cups low-fat milk
- 2 tbsp whole wheat flour
- 1 cup reduced-fat cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup low-fat cream cheese
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set it aside to be added later.
- Caramelize Onions: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring frequently until they become soft and caramelized, which should take about 10 minutes.
- Sauté Peppers and Garlic: Add the thinly sliced green and red bell peppers to the skillet with the onions and cook for another 5 minutes until they soften. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute to develop its aroma.
- Cook Meat: Add the lean ground beef or chicken into the skillet with the vegetables. Cook it through until browned and no longer pink. Season the meat and veggies with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika for deep flavor.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a separate pot over medium heat, whisk together the low-fat milk and whole wheat flour, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture until it thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Add Cheeses and Seasoning: Remove the milk mixture from heat and stir in the shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese and low-fat cream cheese until melted and creamy. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce to enhance the savory notes.
- Combine Pasta and Meat Mixture: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet containing the beef and vegetable mixture. Pour the cheese sauce over everything and stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Final Heating and Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Keep everything on low heat and let it warm through together for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a fresh and colorful finish.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute ground chicken for beef as suggested.
- Use whole wheat pasta to increase fiber and nutrient content compared to traditional pasta.
- Ensure to cook the onions slowly to achieve proper caramelization and sweetness.
- To make it gluten-free, swap whole wheat pasta and flour for gluten-free alternatives.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper, depending on preference and dietary needs.
- This dish reheats well and makes excellent leftovers for the next day.
