Description
A comforting dish combining the rich flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with creamy macaroni and cheese, perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz dry macaroni (sub whole wheat or chickpea pasta)
- 1 lb lean ground beef (swap with turkey or chickpeas)
- 1 cup chopped white onion (yellow onion works too)
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 2 cups bell peppers (any mix of red, green, yellow)
- 2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil)
- 8 oz light cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 4 slices light cheese slices
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to the package directions, ensuring to salt the water. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking apart as it cooks for 5-7 minutes.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until onions become translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped bell peppers and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- In a separate saucepan, melt butter or olive oil over medium heat and whisk in cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually mix in shredded mozzarella and cheese slices until fully melted, creating a creamy sauce.
- Combine cooked macaroni with the meat and pepper mixture in the skillet. Pour the cheese sauce over the top and mix until everything is coated well.
- Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes, adjusting for taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
Add sautéed mushrooms or jalapeños for an exciting twist; store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, creamy cheesesteak, high-protein pasta, comfort food, family meal
