Ever found yourself craving a classic Philly cheesesteak but didn’t want to deal with the carb crash or greasy guilt? Trust me, I’ve been there.
Enter this High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Chickpea Pasta, a game-changing recipe that delivers all the bold flavors you love, but with a healthy twist. it’s the solution to all your indulgent cravings wrapped in a healthy, protein-packed package. It’s like Philly cheesesteak and chickpea pasta had a love child, and it’s absolutely worth a try!
Why This Recipe Stands Out
Now, let’s talk about what makes this recipe extra special. Did you know that chickpea pasta isn’t just a trendy alternative to traditional pasta?
Here’s the secret: Chickpea pasta isn’t just a pasta substitute.
Research shows it has double the protein and three times the fiber of regular pasta, keeping you fuller, longer. Plus, this dish comes together in one pan, saving you time and cleanup!
Who knew healthy comfort food could taste this good and be this smart?
Unexpected Ingredient That Makes It Shine
And hey, I’ll let you in on a secret: the real MVP here is the pickled cherry pepper brine. That zesty kick takes this dish from “Oh, this is good” to “Wait, I need seconds!” Try it, and you’ll see why it’s the most requested recipe in my house.
Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and turn that craving into reality! Or, as I like to say, let’s turn “can’t stop thinking about cheesesteak” into “can’t stop eating this pasta.”
So, if you’re ready to transform your craving into a nutritious, satisfying meal, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Look at the Recipe (Key Highlights)
- Big on Flavor, Low on Guilt: All the cheesesteak goodness—savory beef, melty cheese, and sautéed veggies—without the carbs or greasy aftermath.
- Protein-Packed Powerhouse: Thanks to chickpea pasta and lean ground beef, each serving delivers 25g of protein, keeping you full and energized.
- Quick & Easy: This one-pan dish is ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
- Secret Ingredient Alert: The tangy kick from pickled cherry peppers and their brine takes the flavor up a notch—it’s the touch you didn’t know your pasta needed!
- Versatile & Customizable: Swap in your favorite veggies, adjust the spice, or make it vegetarian—the options are endless.
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a new way to enjoy comfort food while staying on track with your goals!
Ingredients Needed
- Olive oil for sautéing
- Bell peppers for sweetness and color
- Sweet onion to bring out cheesesteak flavor
- Lean ground beef for protein
- Garlic powder for depth of flavor
- Hot pickled cherry peppers and brine for tangy spice
- Low-sodium beef broth for the sauce base
- Chickpea penne or other tubular pasta for a protein boost
- Cream cheese for creaminess
- Provolone cheese for classic cheesesteak flavor
- Fresh Italian parsley for garnish
How to Make High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Chickpea Pasta
This dish is easy to prepare in a few key steps:
Sauté the Vegetables: Cook the onions and bell peppers until slightly browned but still crisp.
Brown the Beef: Cook the lean ground beef with seasonings.
Build the Sauce: Add pickled cherry peppers, brine, broth, and Worcestershire sauce to create a savory base.
Cook the Pasta: Simmer the chickpea pasta directly in the sauce until tender.
Combine and Finish: Add cream cheese, melt provolone, and garnish with parsley for a rich, creamy finish.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage Tips
- Save It for Later: Got leftovers? Pop them in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. (If you can resist eating it all, that is!)
- Reheat Like a Chef: Add a splash of broth or water to the pan or microwave to keep that creamy sauce as dreamy as the first bite.
- Freezer-Friendly: Want to stash some for later? Freeze portions for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight, and you’re good to go!
Serving Tips
- Perfect Pairings: Serve with a crisp green salad or some roasted veggies for a well-rounded meal.
- Spice It Up: Feeling adventurous? A drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes will give it a fiery kick!
- Make It Fancy: Hosting friends? Top it with extra shredded provolone and parsley to wow them with a dish that looks as good as it tastes.
This dish doesn’t just taste amazing—it’s the gift that keeps on giving, even as leftovers!
Tips & FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for crumbled tempeh or cooked lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it vegetarian.
What other vegetables can I use?
You can add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
Does chickpea pasta taste different from regular pasta?
Chickpea pasta has a slightly nutty flavor, but it pairs beautifully with the robust flavors in this recipe.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the cream cheese and provolone with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream or vegan cheese shreds.
Why You’ll Love This Chickpea Pasta Recipe
This High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Chickpea Pasta stands out for several reasons:
- Packed with Protein: Chickpea pasta and lean ground beef provide over 25g of protein per serving.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
- Versatile and Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe for vegetarian, gluten-free, or dairy-free diets.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
Health Benefits of High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Chickpea Pasta
- High Protein Content:
Chickpea pasta and lean beef provide essential amino acids, supporting muscle growth and repair. - Rich in Fiber:
Chickpea pasta delivers a significant fiber boost, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. - Low in Saturated Fat:
Using 93% lean beef and limiting cheese keeps this dish heart-healthy. - Gluten-Free Option:
Chickpea pasta is naturally gluten-free, making it a great alternative for those with gluten sensitivities.
More Healthy Dinner Ideas
- WW Chicken Alfredo Zoodles
- Protein-Packed Quinoa Chili
- Turkey Meatball Marinara
- Cauliflower Crust Philly Cheesesteak Pizza
Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out!
Don’t forget to share your creations with.
Happy cooking!
Description
Try this High-Protein Philly Cheesesteak Chickpea Pasta! A healthy, protein-packed, one-pan meal blending bold Philly flavors with chickpea pasta and fresh veggies.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
-
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or braiser over medium heat. Sauté the bell peppers and onions with a pinch of salt and pepper until lightly browned but still crisp. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
-
Add the remaining olive oil to the skillet. Crumble in the ground beef, seasoning it with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until fully browned.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
-
Stir in the hot cherry peppers, brine, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and 1 1/2 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Cook the Chickpea Pasta
-
Add the chickpea pasta to the skillet, spreading it evenly so it’s mostly submerged in the sauce. Cover and cook for 3-4 minutes until the pasta is just starting to soften.
Step 5: Combine Everything
-
Reintroduce the sautéed vegetables to the skillet, stirring them into the pasta mixture. Cover again and cook until the pasta is tender. Stir in the cream cheese until fully melted.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Herbs
-
Sprinkle the shredded provolone over the pasta and stir gently until melted. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 375kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15g24%
- Total Carbohydrate 32g11%
- Dietary Fiber 8g32%
- Protein 25g50%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
This recipe is one of my weeknight saviors! It delivers all the flavors my family loves in a cheesesteak with the added benefits of a balanced, protein-packed meal. Chickpea pasta makes it a feel-good option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or texture.
