Low Point Pasta Shells with Ground Beef: A Comprehensive Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to a delightful and nutritious recipe that combines rich flavors with a mindful approach to health. Our Low Point Pasta Shells with Ground Beef is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a savvy choice for those who are mindful of their nutritional intake. This dish is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal without compromising their dietary goals. Let’s dive into the details of this recipe, which has been crafted to be both flavorful and low in SmartPoints, making it an excellent choice for those on a weight management plan.

Ingredients

To prepare this dish, you will need the following ingredients:

  • Pasta Shells: 1 cup (uncooked, about 80 grams)
  • Ground Beef: 1 pound (90% lean)
  • Onion: 1 medium (diced)
  • Garlic: 2 cloves (minced)
  • Bell Pepper: 1 large (diced, any color)
  • Crushed Tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 ounces)
  • Tomato Sauce: 1 cup
  • Italian Seasoning: 2 teaspoons
  • Dried Basil: 1 teaspoon
  • Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
  • Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste)
  • Low-Fat Ricotta Cheese: 1/2 cup
  • Shredded Low-Fat Mozzarella Cheese: 1/2 cup
  • Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preparation of Pasta Shells: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 9-11 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside. To prevent sticking, you may lightly toss them with a small amount of olive oil.
  2. Cooking the Beef Mixture: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until it starts to brown, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Sautéing Vegetables: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the diced bell pepper and cook for an additional 3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften.
  4. Adding Tomato Products: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce, mixing well to combine. Then add the Italian seasoning, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  5. Incorporating Ricotta Cheese: Once the beef and tomato mixture has simmered, reduce the heat to low and stir in the low-fat ricotta cheese. Mix thoroughly until the ricotta is evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
  6. Stuffing the Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Take each cooked pasta shell and carefully stuff it with the beef and ricotta mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish.
  7. Topping and Baking: Once all the shells are stuffed and arranged, pour the remaining meat sauce over the top of the shells. Sprinkle the shredded low-fat mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
  8. Baking: Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Serving: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an added touch of freshness.

Nutrition Information

Per serving (1 stuffed shell):

  • Calories: Approximately 180
  • Total Fat: 6 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 3 grams
  • Cholesterol: 40 milligrams
  • Sodium: 400 milligrams
  • Total Carbohydrates: 20 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 3 grams
  • Sugars: 4 grams
  • Protein: 12 grams

SmartPoints Value

  • Weight Watchers (WW) SmartPoints: 5 points per serving

Useful Tips

  1. Lean Beef: Opting for 90% lean ground beef reduces the overall fat content of the dish while still providing a rich flavor.
  2. Substitutions: For a lower calorie alternative, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken. Additionally, you may use fat-free ricotta cheese to further reduce SmartPoints.
  3. Vegetable Add-Ins: Feel free to add extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the beef mixture for added nutrients and fiber.
  4. Storage: This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
  5. Portion Control: This recipe is designed to be satisfying and nutritious. However, be mindful of portion sizes to stay within your dietary goals.

Conclusion

Our Low Point Pasta Shells with Ground Beef is a wonderfully balanced dish that harmonizes taste and health. By incorporating lean beef, a variety of vegetables, and low-fat cheese, this recipe provides a filling meal with a lower SmartPoints value, making it an excellent choice for weight management. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving a hearty family dinner, this dish is sure to please while aligning with your health goals. Enjoy!