Easy High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Mac – A Comfort Food Favorite Made Healthy

There’s something deeply comforting about creamy macaroni and cheese and something irresistibly savory about a Philly cheesesteak. Both are iconic, nostalgic dishes that bring warmth, satisfaction, and a sense of home with every bite. Now imagine the best of both worlds coming together in one skillet: tender pasta, juicy beef, sweet sautéed peppers and onions, and a rich, cheesy sauce that hugs every noodle—without feeling heavy or indulgent. That’s exactly what this Easy High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Mac delivers.

This recipe was created with balance in mind. It honors the traditional flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak while using smart, wholesome choices to boost protein and keep the dish lighter. Lean beef, high-protein pasta, and just the right amount of cheese make this meal filling and nourishing, perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep for the days ahead. It’s cozy without being overwhelming, familiar yet refreshed, and simple enough for beginner cooks while still satisfying seasoned home chefs.

What makes this dish special is how approachable it is. Everything cooks in one main pan, the ingredients are easy to find, and the flavors are straightforward and comforting. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug at the table—simple, hearty, and made with care. Whether you’re looking to add more protein to your meals, please picky eaters, or just enjoy a healthier twist on comfort food, this recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Ingredients:

For the Mac and Protein Base

• 12 oz high-protein pasta (chickpea, lentil, or whole wheat)
• 1 lb lean sirloin steak or extra-lean ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Philly Cheesesteak Veggies

• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Creamy Cheese Sauce

• 1 cup low-fat milk (or unsweetened high-protein milk)
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 cup shredded reduced-fat provolone or mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat

Optional Toppings

• Fresh chopped parsley
• Extra shredded cheese
• Sautéed mushrooms

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Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Add the high-protein pasta and cook according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain well and set aside. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak strips or ground beef, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through. If using steak strips, cook quickly to avoid overcooking. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook over medium heat for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Lower the heat to medium-low. Pour in the milk and stir gently, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds flavor and depth to the sauce.
5. Stir in the Greek yogurt until smooth and creamy. Add Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if using. Slowly sprinkle in the shredded cheeses, stirring continuously until melted and velvety. Keep the heat low to prevent curdling.
6. Return the cooked beef to the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. Gently fold everything together until the pasta and protein are evenly coated in the cheese sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Let the mac simmer gently for 2–3 minutes so all the flavors come together beautifully.
8. Remove from heat and let rest for a minute before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra cheese if desired.

Nutritional Information:

This dish is designed to be both comforting and nourishing. By using lean protein, Greek yogurt, and high-protein pasta, you get a meal that keeps you full and energized without excess heaviness. It’s rich in protein for muscle support, balanced with carbohydrates for energy, and includes vegetables for fiber and micronutrients. A perfect example of comfort food made smarter.

⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes
🔥 Cooking Time: 25 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 40 minutes

⚡ Calories per serving: ~420
🍽️ Servings: 4 generous servings

This Easy High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Mac is best enjoyed fresh, but it also stores beautifully. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or water and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring halfway through to maintain creaminess.

This recipe is a reminder that eating well doesn’t mean giving up the foods you love. With a few thoughtful adjustments, even the most indulgent classics can become part of a healthy, balanced lifestyle. Serve it to family, share it with friends, or enjoy it as a cozy solo meal—you’ll taste the care and comfort in every bite. 💛

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Bon appétit and happy cooking!

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