Here’s a Weight Watchers-friendly Spaghetti recipe that’s delicious, satisfying, and low in points. By making some simple swaps, we can keep the dish lighter while still having all the flavors you love.
Weight Watchers Spaghetti
Ingredients:
- 8 oz whole wheat spaghetti (or zucchini noodles for an even lower-carb option)
- 1 lb lean ground turkey or chicken (or use extra-lean ground beef if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or use cooking spray for fewer points)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes (no added sugar)
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Cook the whole wheat spaghetti according to package directions. If you’re using zucchini noodles, you can sauté them lightly in a pan or just serve them raw. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside.
- Cook the Ground Turkey:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey (or chicken) and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes). If you’re using lean ground beef, drain any excess fat before proceeding.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet with the cooked meat. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
- Add the Sauce Ingredients:
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, oregano, basil, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to thicken and let the flavors combine.
- Combine with Spaghetti:
- Once the sauce is ready, toss the cooked spaghetti (or zucchini noodles) with the sauce in the skillet, making sure the pasta is fully coated with the sauce. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Serve:
- Serve the spaghetti on plates and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.
WW Points (per serving):
- This dish is typically 6-7 points per serving when using whole wheat spaghetti. If you use zucchini noodles, the points will be much lower since zucchini is a zero-point vegetable on the WW program.
- The points will vary depending on the specific brand of pasta, cheese, and any toppings you use, so make sure to adjust accordingly.
Tips:
- Add More Veggies: You can add extra vegetables to the sauce, like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach, to increase the fiber and make it even more filling without adding many points.
- Make it Spicy: For a spicier version, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add fresh jalapeños to the sauce.
- Cheese Options: If you’re trying to save points, use a smaller amount of grated Parmesan, or skip the cheese altogether and go for a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor with fewer points.
This Weight Watchers Spaghetti is a great way to enjoy a classic dish while staying within your points. You get the satisfying pasta and savory meat sauce, but with healthier swaps. Enjoy! Let me know if you need any modifications or other WW recipes!
