Description
A creamy high-protein Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese packed with seasoned ground beef, sautéed peppers, and rich melted cheese. Perfect comfort food for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz dry macaroni
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup chopped white onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups bell peppers, sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 8 oz light cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 4 slices light cheese slices
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Boil salted water and cook macaroni until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic, onion, and bell peppers for 4 to 5 minutes.
- Add ground beef and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in cream cheese, mozzarella, and cheese slices until fully melted and creamy.
- Add cooked macaroni and reserved pasta water. Stir until evenly coated and adjust consistency if needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Do not overcook the pasta to prevent a mushy texture.
- Reserve pasta water to maintain a creamy sauce.
- Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg