Introduction:

Pasta is a beloved dish that can be enjoyed in countless ways, but when you’re following a Weight Watchers plan, it’s important to keep an eye on both portion sizes and ingredients to stay within your daily points. The Weight Watchers Pasta with Lean Ground Beef, Veggies, and Creamy Mozzarella Sauce provides the perfect balance of flavors and nutrients while keeping your SmartPoints low. This dish features lean ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a creamy mozzarella sauce that adds indulgence without the guilt.

This recipe is a fantastic option for those looking to enjoy a comforting, hearty pasta dish that won’t derail their weight loss goals. By opting for lean ground beef, whole wheat or low-carb pasta, and a rich but lightened-up creamy sauce, we’ve transformed a classic pasta dinner into a healthier and more balanced meal. It’s a great option for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even for impressing guests with a deliciously satisfying dish that keeps you on track.

The combination of lean protein, fiber-packed veggies, and the rich, creamy sauce creates a satisfying meal that is both filling and nutritious. Whether you’re on the Weight Watchers program or simply looking for a delicious yet healthier version of your favorite pasta dish, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Servings: 4
  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Dietary Fiber: 7g
  • Net Carbs: 29g
  • Protein: 27g
  • WW SmartPoints: 4 points (per serving)

Ingredients:

To prepare the Weight Watchers Pasta with Lean Ground Beef, Veggies, and Creamy Mozzarella Sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Pasta and Protein:

  • 8 ounces of whole wheat pasta (or a lower-carb pasta alternative, such as zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles)
  • 1 pound of lean ground beef (choose 90% lean or higher to keep the fat content lower)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing the beef and veggies)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced (any color of your choice)
  • 1/2 cup zucchini, diced (for added texture and nutrients)
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (for a burst of freshness and sweetness)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a combination of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Mozzarella Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free alternative, such as rice flour, for a thickening agent)
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth, if preferred)
  • 1/2 cup 2% milk (or unsweetened almond milk for a dairy-free option)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (choose a part-skim variety for a lighter option)
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (for added flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for extra richness in the sauce)
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (to enhance the savory notes)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (for a touch of heat)

Optional Garnishes:

  • Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat)
  • Extra Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Kitchen Tools Needed:

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Large skillet or sauté pan for cooking the ground beef and veggies
  • Medium saucepan for making the creamy mozzarella sauce
  • Strainer for draining pasta
  • Measuring spoons and cups for accuracy
  • Sharp knife for chopping veggies and garlic
  • Wooden spoon for stirring
  • Grater for shredding cheese, if needed

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add your choice of pasta—8 ounces of whole wheat pasta or any preferred low-carb option like zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.

Follow the package instructions for the pasta, usually 8-10 minutes for whole wheat pasta. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it well and set it aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water to help thin out the sauce later if needed.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef and Vegetables

While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef and break it up into small crumbles using a spoon or spatula. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the beef is fully browned and cooked through.

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan with the beef. Sauté for an additional 2 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent, and the garlic becomes fragrant.

Next, add the diced bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Stir everything together and cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly while maintaining some texture. Season the mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Once the veggies are tender and the mixture is well combined, reduce the heat and keep it warm while you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Mozzarella Sauce

In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This step will help thicken the sauce.

Gradually add 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Next, pour in 1/2 cup of 2% milk (or unsweetened almond milk for a dairy-free version). Continue whisking until the sauce begins to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.

Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1 tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season the sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta, Beef, Veggies, and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the beef and vegetable mixture, tossing gently to combine. If the mixture seems dry, add a small amount of the reserved pasta cooking water to help the ingredients blend together.

Next, pour the creamy mozzarella sauce over the pasta and beef mixture, stirring until everything is evenly coated with the rich sauce. Make sure the pasta and veggies are well incorporated into the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Divide the pasta into 4 equal servings. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some added heat.

Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!

Tips for Success:

  1. Make Ahead: You can prepare the beef and veggie mixture and the creamy sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta.
  2. Customize the Veggies: This recipe is very versatile. Feel free to add other veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or eggplant for even more flavor and nutrients.
  3. Swap the Protein: If you prefer, you can swap the lean ground beef for other lean proteins like ground turkey, chicken breast, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
  4. Low-Carb Options: If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, consider using zucchini noodles (zoodles) or shirataki noodles instead of traditional pasta. These alternatives are both lower in carbs and will still work beautifully with the creamy sauce.
  5. Adjust Creaminess: For a richer sauce, increase the amount of mozzarella or Parmesan. If you prefer a lighter sauce, use more broth and less cheese.

Nutritional Benefits:

This Weight Watchers Pasta with Lean Ground Beef, Veggies, and Creamy Mozzarella Sauce is packed with nutritional benefits:

  • Lean Protein: The ground beef provides a substantial source of protein (27g per serving), which helps keep you full and satisfied.
  • Veggie Power: The addition of bell peppers, zucchini, and tomatoes not only adds fiber but also provides vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants that support overall health.
  • Low-Carb Option: With only 4g of net carbs per serving (when using whole wheat pasta), this dish is great for anyone looking to maintain a low-carb lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.

Conclusion:

Weight Watchers Pasta with Lean Ground Beef, Veggies, and Creamy Mozzarella Sauce is the perfect dish for those who crave the comforting flavors of pasta but want a healthier version. With lean beef, fresh vegetables, and a creamy mozzarella sauce, this recipe is packed with flavor and nutrition while keeping the SmartPoints low. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or serving guests, this dish is sure to impress.

At 9 WW SmartPoints per serving, this meal fits seamlessly into any weight loss plan without compromising on taste or satisfaction. By making simple ingredient swaps and using lower-fat, lower-calorie alternatives, you can enjoy a classic pasta dish while still sticking to your health goals.

Enjoy this delicious and nutritious pasta bowl any time you need a comforting yet weight-friendly meal!