Certainly! Here’s a Weight Watchers-friendly version of the Mexican Tortilla Casserole, including nutritional information and SmartPoints values:
Weight Watchers Mexican Tortilla Casserole
Experience the bold and vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine with this delicious and Weight Watchers-friendly Mexican Tortilla Casserole. Packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful blend of spices, this casserole is a satisfying and nutritious option for any meal. Enjoy this hearty dish without breaking your SmartPoints budget!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground turkey (or extra-lean ground beef) – 0 SmartPoints
- 1 medium onion, chopped – 0 SmartPoints
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – 0 SmartPoints
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped – 0 SmartPoints
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen) – 2 SmartPoints
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed – 2 SmartPoints
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes – 0 SmartPoints
- 1 cup salsa (choose a low-sodium option) – 0 SmartPoints
- 1 tablespoon chili powder – 0 SmartPoints
- 1 teaspoon cumin – 0 SmartPoints
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika – 0 SmartPoints
- 6 small whole-wheat tortillas, cut into strips – 6 SmartPoints
- 1 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese – 4 SmartPoints
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish) – 0 SmartPoints
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Meat and Vegetables:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground turkey until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the chopped bell peppers, corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, salsa, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- In a baking dish (approximately 9×13 inches), layer half of the tortilla strips evenly on the bottom.
- Spread half of the meat and vegetable mixture over the tortillas.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, meat mixture, and cheese.
- Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Serving Size: 1/6 of the casserole
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 7g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 22g
Weight Watchers SmartPoints Values:
- Total SmartPoints per Serving: 8
Additional Tips:
- Cheese Alternatives: Use a reduced-fat or fat-free cheese to further lower SmartPoints if desired.
- Tortilla Alternatives: Opt for low-carb tortillas or cut back on the tortilla strips to reduce SmartPoints.
- Vegetable Variations: Add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini for more fiber and nutrients.
This Weight Watchers Mexican Tortilla Casserole provides a hearty, flavorful meal that aligns with your SmartPoints goals while satisfying your craving for Mexican cuisine. Enjoy!