Lone Star Beef & Pepper Mac & Cheese
with a Crispy Panko Topping
Lone Star Beef & Pepper Mac & Cheese
Creamy mac and cheese gets a hearty Texas-style twist with savory beef and sweet peppers, finished under a golden, crispy panko topping for extra crunch.
Ingredients
For 2 servings
- 6 ounce Cavatappi Pasta
- 2 tablespoon Cream Cheese
- 8 ounce Cream Sauce Base
- 1 clove Garlic
- 10 ounce Ground Beef
- 1 unit Long Green Pepper
- ½ cup Mexican Cheese Blend
- ¼ cup Monterey Jack Cheese
- ½ cup Panko Breadcrumbs
- ½ cup Pepper Jack Cheese
- 1 tablespoon Southwest Spice Blend
- 1 unit Tomato
Additional Ingredients
- Butter
- Olive Oil
- Pepper
- Salt

DifficultyEasy
Prep Time5m
Total Time30m
Calories1470
Protein56g
Carbs96g
Fat93g
Tags:
Protein SmartFiber SmartMass Gain FriendlyEasy Prep
⚠️Allergens:
🥛Milk🌾WheatSwaps and substitutions
For a lighter or vegetarian version, swap the beef for seasoned black beans, lentils, or crumbled plant-based mince. For dairy-free needs, use non-dairy cream and cheese alternatives; for wheat-free, choose gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
What to serve with it
Serve with a crisp green salad, charred corn, or simple roasted vegetables to balance the rich, cheesy pasta. A bright salsa or pickled jalapeños on the side adds freshness and a little heat.
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