Indulge in the delightful flavors of W-W Taco Stuffed Shells, a delicious and satisfying dish crafted with Weight Watchers principles in mind. This creative recipe combines the beloved essence of tacos with the comforting allure of stuffed pasta shells, providing a wholesome and flavorful meal without compromising on your SmartPoints goals.
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The journey begins with jumbo pasta shells, carefully cooked to al dente perfection. Meanwhile, lean ground turkey or beef is transformed into a zesty taco filling, seasoned with a packet of taco seasoning for that authentic south-of-the-border taste. This flavorful mixture is then combined with salsa, fat-free refried beans, and reduced-fat shredded Mexican cheese, creating a delightful medley that will soon be tucked into the awaiting pasta shells.
As the stuffed shells nestle in a baking dish, they are adorned with a final layer of melted cheese before being baked to golden perfection. The result is a harmonious blend of pasta, savory taco filling, and gooey melted cheese, creating a comforting and satisfying dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Garnished with fresh cilantro, green onions, or sliced olives, each serving of W-W Taco Stuffed Shells becomes a culinary masterpiece. To top it off, a dollop of plain Greek yogurt adds a creamy finish, standing in as a smarter alternative to traditional sour cream.
With approximately 350 calories per serving and a well-balanced nutritional profile, this recipe aligns with the Weight Watchers program, offering a guilt-free indulgence for those mindful of their SmartPoints. Whether enjoyed as a family-friendly dinner or a comforting solo meal, these Taco Stuffed Shells exemplify the flavorful possibilities that can be achieved while staying true to your Weight Watchers journey.
Ingredients:
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24 jumbo pasta shells
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1 pound lean ground turkey or lean ground beef
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1 packet taco seasoning
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1 cup salsa
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1 cup fat-free refried beans
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1 cup reduced-fat shredded Mexican cheese blend
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1 cup plain Greek yogurt (as a substitute for sour cream)
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Chopped fresh cilantro, green onions, or sliced olives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Pasta Shells:
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Taco Meat:
- In a skillet, brown the lean ground turkey or beef. Add the taco seasoning and cook according to the seasoning packet instructions.
- Combine Taco Meat with Other Ingredients:
- In a bowl, mix the cooked taco meat with salsa, refried beans, and half of the shredded cheese.
- Stuff the Pasta Shells:
- Carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with the taco meat mixture.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, green onions, or sliced olives if desired.
- Serve with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative to sour cream.
Nutritional Information:
Calories: ~350 kcal
Total Fat: ~10g
Saturated Fat: ~4g
Unsaturated Fat: ~5g
Cholesterol: ~45mg
Sodium: ~800mg
Total Carbohydrates: ~40g
Dietary Fiber: ~5g
Sugars: ~4g
Protein: ~25g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.
This W-W Taco Stuffed Shells recipe offers a balanced and satisfying meal with a reduced SmartPoints value, making it a suitable option for those following the Weight Watchers program. Always check nutritional labels and adjust quantities based on individual dietary needs and preferences.