Description
This Easy High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Mac blends classic comfort food flavors with smart, protein-rich ingredients. Tender pasta, lean beef, sautéed peppers and onions, and a creamy cheese sauce come together in one skillet for a balanced, satisfying meal that feels cozy without feeling heavy.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-fat milk
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded reduced-fat provolone or mozzarella
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
- Optional toppings: chopped parsley, extra cheese, sautéed mushrooms
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the beef with salt and pepper until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, cook onions and bell peppers until soft and lightly caramelized. Add garlic and cook briefly.
- Lower heat and stir in milk, scraping the pan to release flavor.
- Add Greek yogurt, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir until smooth.
- Gradually add cheeses, stirring constantly until melted and creamy.
- Return beef and pasta to the skillet and gently fold to coat evenly. Add pasta water if needed.
- Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, adjust seasoning, and remove from heat.
Notes
- Use high-protein pasta to boost satiety and nutrition.
- Keep heat low when adding dairy to prevent curdling.
- Add a splash of milk when reheating to restore creaminess.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 65mg