Taco Ranch Bites
Ingredients:
1 lb lean ground turkey or chicken (instead of ground beef)
1 (1-oz) packet taco seasoning (use reduced-sodium if available)
1 (10-oz) can diced tomatoes and green chiles, with their juices (look for no-salt-added variety)
2 cups reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup light ranch dressing
5 (15-count) frozen phyllo tart shells
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175°C).
Cook the Ground Turkey: In a skillet, brown the lean ground turkey until fully cooked. Drain off any excess fat.
Prepare the Taco Mixture: Stir in the taco seasoning and diced tomatoes with green chiles. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring everything is well combined. Remove from heat.
Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, blend together the reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese, light ranch dressing, and the cooked taco meat mixture.
Fill the Phyllo Tart Shells: Evenly distribute the taco mixture into the frozen phyllo tart shells.
Bake: Arrange the filled tart shells on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If baking from frozen, add 2-3 minutes to the baking time.
Serve: Once baked, take out your Taco Ranch Bites from the oven and serve them warm.
Tips for Lower Points:
Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef to reduce points.
Choose reduced-fat or light versions of shredded cheddar cheese and ranch dressing.
Opt for no-salt-added diced tomatoes to reduce sodium content.
Adjust portion sizes of ingredients to fit within your daily points allowance.
Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 1 Taco Ranch Bite):
(Approximate values
Calories: ~50 kcal
Protein: ~3g
Carbohydrates: ~4g
Fat: ~2.5g
Fiber: ~0.5g
Sugar: ~1g
Weight Watchers Points (estimated):
Lean ground turkey or chicken: Points will vary based on the type and amount used.
Reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese: Points will vary based on the brand and amount used.
Light ranch dressing: Points will vary based on the brand and amount used.
Phyllo tart shells: Points will vary based on the brand and size.
Total Points (per serving): Approximately 1-2 points per Taco Ranch Bite, depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
By making these adjustments, you can enjoy Taco Ranch Bites that are lighter and suitable for a Weight Watchers plan, perfect for gatherings or as a delicious snack. Adjust ingredient quantities based on your specific points goals and preferences.