High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese – Hearty, Cheesy & Muscle-Fueling

If you love the bold, beefy flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak and the gooey comfort of mac and cheese, you’ll want to bookmark this High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese recipe.

This dish merges two comfort food favorites into one protein-rich, crave-worthy bowl — tender shaved steak, sautéed peppers and onions, and melty cheese swirled into a creamy, high-protein pasta base. It’s filling, savory, and packed with everything you want after a tough workout or a long day.

Plus, thanks to high-protein ingredients like lean steak, protein-enriched pasta, and a Greek yogurt cheese sauce, it hits nutrition goals without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Ingredients Overview

Let’s break down the key ingredients and why they make this dish both delicious and macro-friendly:

• Lean Shaved Steak or Thinly Sliced Sirloin: Delivers rich, beefy flavor and a high-quality protein source. Look for thin-cut steak or use deli-style roast beef in a pinch.

• High-Protein Pasta: Brands like Banza (chickpea-based) or Barilla Protein+ add extra protein and fiber to the base.

• Bell Peppers & Onion: Classic cheesesteak veggies that bring sweetness, crunch, and color. Use a mix of green, red, or yellow peppers for variety.

• Garlic: Adds depth and aroma to the dish.

• Cheddar & Provolone Cheese: Cheddar melts beautifully into the sauce, while provolone gives that authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor. Use part-skim versions if you’re watching fat intake.

• Greek Yogurt or Cottage Cheese: Replaces cream or butter in the cheese sauce with added protein and tangy creaminess.

• Milk or Unsweetened Almond Milk: Helps create a smooth, pourable sauce.

• Olive Oil or Avocado Oil: Used to sauté the vegetables and steak.

Optional Add-Ins:

• Mushrooms for umami and texture

• Hot sauce or red pepper flakes for heat

• Worcestershire sauce or steak seasoning for extra savoriness

Ingredient Tips:

• Thin-sliced steak cooks fast — keep the heat high and avoid overcooking to keep it juicy.

• Blend the Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for an ultra-smooth sauce if desired.

• Use pre-shredded cheese sparingly — freshly grated melts better and avoids additives.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This high-protein mac and cheese comes together in about 30 minutes:

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

• Cook 8 oz high-protein pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Steak & Veggies

• Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

• Add thinly sliced onion and bell peppers. Cook for 5–6 minutes until soft and lightly caramelized.

• Push vegetables to the side. Add sliced steak and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Season with salt and pepper.

• Optional: Add 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce for deeper flavor.

• Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Make the High-Protein Cheese Sauce

• In a separate saucepan, whisk together:

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt or ¾ cup blended cottage cheese

  • ½ cup milk

  • 1½ cups freshly grated cheddar cheese

  • ½ cup provolone cheese, shredded or chopped

  • Salt and pepper to taste

• Heat gently over low to medium heat, stirring constantly until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth. Do not boil to avoid curdling the yogurt.

Pro Tip: If sauce is too thick, thin with extra milk. If too thin, stir in 1 tbsp cornstarch slurry.

4. Combine Everything

• Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat.

• Fold in the cooked steak and vegetables. Mix well to combine.

5. Serve & Garnish

• Spoon into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, extra cheese, or a drizzle of hot sauce.

• Serve warm with a side salad or steamed greens for balance.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

• Make it spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper.

• Extra veggies: Mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini work well here.

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free protein pasta options like chickpea, lentil, or brown rice blends.

• Lighter version: Use lean ground beef or turkey instead of steak.

• No yogurt? Substitute blended low-fat cottage cheese or light cream cheese for a creamy result.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This dish is perfect for:

• Post-workout meals: High in protein and carbs for muscle recovery.

• Meal prep: Keeps well in the fridge and reheats beautifully.

• Family dinners: Comfort food with a nutrition upgrade.

• Game day: Serve in ramekins with a side of garlic bread or a green salad.

It’s a hearty, one-pan meal that satisfies both comfort cravings and protein goals.

Nutritional & Health Notes

Each serving offers a balanced macro profile, making it a smart choice for active lifestyles:

• Protein: Steak, Greek yogurt, cheese, and protein pasta deliver over 35g of protein per serving.

• Fiber: Chickpea or whole wheat pasta adds gut-friendly fiber.

• Healthy fats: Olive oil and dairy provide flavor and satiety.

For a lower-fat option:

• Use part-skim cheese

• Skip extra oil

• Use lean ground beef or turkey

FAQs

Q1: Can I meal prep this mac and cheese?

A1: Yes! Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk to revive the creaminess.

Q2: Will Greek yogurt curdle in the cheese sauce?

A2: It can if overheated. Keep the heat low and stir constantly. Blending it first also helps create a smooth texture.

Q3: What protein pasta brands work best?

A3: Try Banza (chickpea-based), Barilla Protein+, or Explore Cuisine (lentil-based). All hold up well in creamy sauces.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?

A4: Yes, but the texture may change slightly. Cool fully, portion into freezer-safe containers, and reheat gently.

Q5: What cheeses are best for flavor and melt?

A5: Sharp cheddar provides richness and tang, while provolone adds classic Philly flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheeses when possible.

Q6: Can I make it dairy-free?

A6: Yes. Use dairy-free protein pasta, vegan yogurt, and shredded vegan cheeses. The flavor and texture will vary but can still be creamy.

Q7: What can I serve with this?

A7: A crisp green salad, roasted broccoli, or a simple tomato cucumber salad balances the richness beautifully.

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