If you love comfort food but also want to hit your nutrition goals, this easy high protein Philly cheesesteak pasta recipe is the perfect solution. It takes everything you love about a classic Philly cheesesteak and turns it into a hearty pasta dish that is creamy, satisfying, and packed with protein. With lean beef, protein-enriched pasta, and plenty of melty cheese, this meal feels indulgent while still fitting into a balanced lifestyle.
This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or anytime you want a filling dinner that keeps you full for hours.
Why You’ll Love This Easy High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
This recipe is designed to be both comforting and practical.
- High in protein without tasting like diet food
- Ready in about 30 minutes
- Made in one pan plus a pot for pasta
- Family-friendly and customizable
- Perfect for leftovers and meal prep
You get rich cheesesteak flavor with a lighter, more balanced approach that still feels cozy and indulgent.
Ingredients for Easy High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces high-protein pasta (chickpea, lentil, or protein-enriched wheat pasta)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef or shaved steak
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 3/4 cup milk or unsweetened almond milk
- 4 ounces light cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese or mozzarella
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Protein Pasta
Chickpea or lentil pasta boosts protein significantly. Whole wheat pasta also works well if that is what you have.
Beef
Lean ground beef keeps the dish lighter while still delivering classic flavor. Shaved steak is more traditional and works just as well.
Cheese Choices
Provolone gives the most authentic cheesesteak flavor. Mozzarella melts beautifully and is a great alternative.
Milk Options
Regular milk makes the sauce creamy, but unsweetened almond milk or oat milk works well for a lighter option.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or shaved steak and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Remove excess grease if needed.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Add sliced onion and bell peppers to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized.
Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the beef broth and milk, stirring to combine. Add the cream cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce gently simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss until fully coated in the sauce. Sprinkle in the shredded cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Pro Tips for Success
- Cook pasta just to al dente so it does not get mushy
- Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother sauce
- Stir frequently after adding cheese to prevent sticking
- Let the sauce simmer gently, not boil
- Slice peppers and onions evenly for consistent texture
Flavor Variations
- Spicy Cheesesteak Pasta: Add crushed red pepper flakes or sliced banana peppers
- Mushroom Lover’s Version: Add sautéed mushrooms with the peppers and onions
- Extra Cheesy: Stir in an extra 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- Low-Fat Option: Use extra lean beef and reduced-fat cheese
- Chicken Cheesesteak Pasta: Replace beef with cooked shredded chicken
Serving Suggestions
Serve this high-protein Philly cheesesteak pasta on its own for a complete meal, or pair it with
- A simple green salad
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Roasted zucchini or asparagus
- Garlic bread for a heartier option
This dish is filling enough to stand alone but pairs well with lighter sides.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~520 |
| Protein | ~38 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~42 g |
| Fat | ~22 g |
| Fiber | ~6 g |
| Sodium | ~620 mg |
Values are estimates and will vary based on pasta and cheese used.
FAQ About Easy High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes. This pasta holds up very well in the refrigerator and reheats easily, making it ideal for meal prep lunches or dinners.
What makes this pasta high in protein?
The combination of lean beef, protein-enriched pasta, and cheese significantly increases the protein content compared to traditional pasta dishes.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free high-protein pasta and ensure your broth is gluten-free.
Does this taste like a Philly cheesesteak?
It captures the classic flavors of beef, peppers, onions, and cheese, just in a creamy pasta form rather than a sandwich.
Can I make it dairy free?
You can use dairy-free cream cheese, dairy-free shredded cheese, and unsweetened plant milk. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Easy High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Equipment
- large pot
- large skillet
- wooden spoon or spatula
- colander
Ingredients
- 8 oz high-protein pasta (chickpea, lentil, or protein-enriched wheat)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb lean ground beef or shaved steak
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 3/4 cup milk or unsweetened almond milk
- 4 oz light cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese or mozzarella
- salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Remove excess grease if needed.
- Add the onion and bell peppers to the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Pour in the beef broth and milk. Add the cream cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Reduce heat and let simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Notes
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
This easy high-protein Philly cheesesteak pasta recipe proves that comfort food and balanced nutrition can absolutely coexist. It is creamy, filling, and packed with flavor while delivering the protein your body needs. Whether you are cooking for your family or prepping meals for the week, this dish is sure to become a repeat favorite.
