Weight Watchers-Friendly Spaghetti and Stuffed Mozzarella Garlic Bread
Ingredients:

  • 8 oz whole wheat or low-carb spaghetti (4 servings)
  • 1 loaf of light or whole wheat French bread (try to find one that’s low in points, like a reduced-calorie option)
  • 1/4 cup light unsalted butter (or a low-fat butter substitute)
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (use a reduced-fat version)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (choose a low-sugar, low-fat option)
  • 1 1/2 cups reduced-fat shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the Spaghetti:
    • Cook the whole wheat or low-carb spaghetti according to the package directions. Drain and set it aside.
  3. Prepare the Garlic Bread:
    • Cut the loaf of light French bread in half lengthwise.
    • In a small saucepan, melt the light butter over medium heat.
    • Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
    • Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
    • Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley over the bread halves.
  4. Bake the Garlic Bread:
    • Place the bread halves on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and golden brown.
  5. Heat the Marinara Sauce:
    • While the bread is baking, heat the marinara sauce in a medium saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
  6. Assemble the Stuffed Garlic Bread:
    • Once the bread is done baking, remove it from the oven.
    • Spread a layer of the marinara sauce over each bread half.
    • Top the sauce with the cooked spaghetti.
    • Sprinkle the reduced-fat shredded mozzarella cheese over the spaghetti.
  7. Bake Again:
    • Return the assembled bread to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Serve:
    • Remove the stuffed garlic bread from the oven and let it cool slightly.
    • Slice and serve hot.

Tips:

  • Portion Control: Slice the bread into smaller pieces to keep portion sizes in check, which helps manage points.
  • Use a Veggie Pasta: If you want to lower the points even more, consider using spiralized zucchini or other veggie pasta instead of traditional spaghetti.
  • Choose Low-Point Marinara Sauce: Check the labels for marinara sauces that are low in sugar and fat to keep the points low.

Benefits:

  • Whole Grains: Using whole wheat pasta and bread provides more fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you fuller longer.
  • Lower Saturated Fats: Substituting full-fat dairy products with reduced-fat versions helps reduce saturated fat intake, which is better for heart health.
  • Portion Control: By managing portions, this recipe fits into your Weight Watchers plan without derailing your progress.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: ~300
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Points: ~6-7 (depending on the specific brands and products you use)

This adapted recipe allows you to enjoy a comforting and indulgent meal while staying on track with your wellness goals. By making a few smart swaps, you can significantly reduce the points and keep it nutritious without sacrificing flavor!