Weight Watchers-Friendly Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese
This lighter version of Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese retains all the comforting flavors but with a reduced points value for those following the Weight Watchers plan.

Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces medium pasta shells (whole wheat or high-fiber pasta for fewer points)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (use light butter for fewer points)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 shallot, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 ⅓ cups whole milk (use fat-free or 1% milk for fewer points)
  • 1 cup half and half (use fat-free half and half for fewer points)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 3 cups chopped broccoli florets
  • 6 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (use reduced-fat cheddar for fewer points)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Pasta:
    • In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package instructions; drain well.
  2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
    • In a large skillet, melt the light butter over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and shallot, and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
    • Whisk in the flour and cook until lightly browned, about 1 minute.
    • Gradually whisk in the milk, fat-free half and half, and Dijon mustard until slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes. If the mixture is too thick, add more milk as needed.
    • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Cheese:
    • Stir in the cooked pasta, broccoli, and shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese. Cook until well combined and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Serve:
    • Serve immediately, garnished with additional black pepper if desired.

Weight Watchers Points:

  • Whole Wheat or High-Fiber Pasta (8 ounces): ~16 points (varies based on brand; about 2 points per serving)
  • Light Butter (2 tablespoons): ~4 points
  • Fat-Free or 1% Milk (1 ⅓ cups): ~4 points
  • Fat-Free Half and Half (1 cup): ~2 points
  • Reduced-Fat Cheddar Cheese (6 ounces): ~12 points

Total Points per Serving (6 servings): ~6-7 points per serving (depends on exact brands and portions used)

Tips:

  • Use High-Fiber Pasta: Opting for high-fiber pasta helps to increase the nutritional value and keeps you fuller longer.
  • Add Extra Vegetables: You can bulk up the dish by adding more low-point vegetables like spinach, cauliflower, or peas.
  • Control Portion Size: Keep portion sizes moderate to manage points effectively.

Benefits:

  • High in Fiber: Using whole wheat or high-fiber pasta increases the fiber content, which helps with digestion and satiety.
  • Packed with Vegetables: The broccoli provides essential vitamins and minerals, adding to the nutritional value.
  • Comforting and Satisfying: Even with the modifications, this dish is creamy and satisfying, making it a great choice for a comfort meal.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: ~250-300 kcal
  • Fat: ~10-12g
  • Protein: ~15g
  • Carbs: ~30-35g
  • Fiber: ~3-5g
  • Weight Watchers Points: ~6-7 points per serving

This Weight Watchers-friendly Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a delicious and comforting meal that fits within your points budget, making it a great option for those looking to enjoy a classic dish with a healthier twist.