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A delicious bowl of Philly Cheesesteak Mac is featured in this article.

Ultimate Philly Cheesesteak Mac

Avatar photoAmelia Chen-Morrison
This Ultimate Philly Cheesesteak Mac recipe combines the comforting flavors of mac and cheese with the savory goodness of a Philly cheesesteak. It's a delicious and surprisingly easy-to-make dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Get ready for a flavor explosion that's both creamy and beefy!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 800 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Large skillet or griddle
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Colander
  • Pot with lid

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • ½ cup butter
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 pound thinly sliced steak ribeye or sirloin
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 slices provolone cheese, halved
  • 4 slices American cheese, halved
  • Chopped parsley, for garnish optional
  • Hot sauce, for serving optional

Instructions
 

  • Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain well and set aside.
  • In the same pot (or a large saucepan), melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  • Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to get rid of any lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  • Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and smooth.
  • Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine. Set aside.
  • While the macaroni is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
  • Add the sliced steak and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure the steak browns properly.
  • Add the sliced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Add the cooked Philly cheesesteak mixture to the mac and cheese. Stir to combine.
  • Top with the halved provolone and American cheese slices.
  • Cover the pot or skillet and let it sit for a minute or two, until the cheese is melted and gooey.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot with hot sauce on the side, if you like a little kick!

Notes

For a richer flavor, try using Gruyere, fontina, or cream cheese in the mac and cheese sauce. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick. Sautéed mushrooms can be added to the cheesesteak mixture for extra flavor. For a crispy topping, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the mac and cheese before melting the cheese slices and broil briefly. If the cheese sauce becomes grainy, whisk in a tablespoon of cream cheese or sour cream to smooth it out. To prevent dry mac and cheese, add a splash of milk or cream before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.