Philly Cheese Pasta
This lightened up philly cheese pasta is made with ground turkey, peppers and onions smothered in a cream cheese sauce. It has all the flavors of the classic sandwich in pasta form! You wont believe this classic comfort food could be so low in points!
This lightened up philly cheese pasta is made with ground turkey, peppers and onions smothered in a cream cheese sauce. It has all the flavors of the classic sandwich in pasta form! You wont believe this classic comfort food could be so low in points!
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 green pepper diced
- 1/2 yellow onion diced
- 4 oz light cream cheese softened
- 10 oz. uncooked pasta shells ( i use barilla white fiber
- 12 oz. 93% fat free ground turkey (i use butterball grou
- 1 tbsp land o'lakes light butter or any light butter
- 3/4 cup beef stock (less or more depending on consistency
- 4 oz light mozzarella (i use trader joe's lite mozzare
- Carbohydrate 3.64357748535333 g
- Cholesterol 10.205828316 mg
- Fat 2.93575475312 g
- Fiber 0.514000012874603 g
- Protein 1.81862504223333 g
- Saturated Fat 1.73573640775867 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (68g)
- Sodium 102.240267866111 mg
- Sugar 3.12957747247873 g
- Trans Fat 0.301193808645333 g
- Calories 47 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large pot, boil water and cook pasta according to the directions on package. Drain noodles and set aside.
- Meanwhile, in a large skillet, melt butter, and sauté garlic for 3 minutes.
- Add bell pepper, onion, salt and pepper. Cook until veggies are tender.
- Add in the ground turkey and cook until ground turkey is thoroughly cooked.
- Stir in the softened light cream cheese until melted. Add beef stock and stir until all ingredients have been incorporated.
- Add cooked pasta and fold in mozzarella cheese, and stir until cheese has completely melted.
My Philly Cheese Pasta Adventure: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a constant uphill battle. I'm always on the lookout for recipes that are quick, easy, and satisfying, without sacrificing flavor. That's where this Philly Cheese Pasta comes in. I discovered this recipe a few weeks ago, and it's quickly become a family favorite. It satisfies that craving for rich, cheesy pasta without the guilt of a heavy, creamy sauce. The ground turkey adds a lean protein boost, and the vibrant peppers and onions give it a delicious freshness.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. I often adjust it based on what's in my fridge. Sometimes I add spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrients. Other times, I swap the ground turkey for chicken sausage, for a slightly different flavor profile. The beauty of it is that it adapts easily to whatever you have on hand. It's perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, a casual weekend lunch, or even a comforting meal after a long day at the office. The cleanup is minimal, too, which is always a plus in my book.
The taste test: Let's be honest, the first time I made this, I was skeptical. Could a lighter version truly capture the essence of a classic Philly cheesesteak? I was pleasantly surprised! The cream cheese sauce is unbelievably smooth and creamy, while the ground turkey provides a satisfying texture. The blend of savory and slightly sweet from the peppers and onions perfectly balances the richness of the cheese. My kids devoured it – a resounding endorsement if I've ever seen one! It's the type of dish that brings everyone together, a warm, comforting meal that satisfies everyone's taste buds. This pasta is so flavorful and comforting; I don't miss the heavy cream at all!
Tips and Tricks for Philly Cheese Pasta Success:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Cook it al dente for the best texture.
- Use quality ingredients: Freshly minced garlic and good quality ground turkey make a world of difference.
- Adjust the beef stock: Add more or less depending on the desired consistency of your sauce.
- Get creative with veggies: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
- Spice it up: A dash of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
This Philly Cheese Pasta isn’t just a recipe; it’s a shortcut to happiness on a busy weeknight. It’s a testament to the fact that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring, and delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated. So, give this recipe a try. I guarantee you’ll be adding it to your regular dinner rotation, just like I have.
I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family and I do! Let me know in the comments if you give it a try and what modifications you make. Happy cooking!
