WEIGHT WATCHERS MEATBALL

Indulge in Weight Watchers Italian Meatballs

Are you ready to elevate your meatball game? These delicious Italian Meatballs are just 5 Smart Points per serving on the Weight Watchers Flex/Freestyle program. Adapted from a Gordon Ramsey recipe, these meatballs are incredibly tasty and filling, making them a perfect choice for a healthy yet satisfying meal. Even if you’ve never been a big fan of meatballs, these are sure to win you over!

Succulent and flavorful, each meatball is enveloped in a thick, rich sauce with just a hint of chili. The secret to their irresistible taste lies in a unique preparation method that involves milk-soaked breadcrumbs and a light dusting of flour before frying. This technique transforms ordinary meatballs into something extraordinary.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Weight Watchers friendly with only 5 Smart Points per serving.
• Adapted from a Gordon Ramsey recipe for an elevated flavor profile.
• Succulent meatballs in a rich, chili-infused sauce.
• Simple ingredients that are easy to find.
• Versatile and can be made with beef or turkey.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Food processor or blender
• Mixing bowls
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Oven-safe baking dish
• Non-stick cooking spray

Ingredients

• 1 lb extra lean ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 egg
• 1 cup water
• 1 package stove top stuffing mix (any flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a food processor, blitz half a Warburton thin (or a slice of low-point bread) to create approximately 3 tablespoons of breadcrumbs.
2. Place the breadcrumbs in a small bowl and cover with milk. Set aside to allow the bread to soak up the milk.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, chopped parsley, crushed garlic, and milk-soaked breadcrumbs. Use your hands to mix thoroughly.
4. Shape the mixture into meatballs, roughly the size of a large walnut, until you have around 20 meatballs.
5. Toss each meatball in flour to give them a light coating.
6. Spray a large skillet with non-stick cooking spray and heat over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides. They don’t need to be fully cooked as they will finish cooking in the sauce.
7. Once browned, place the meatballs in an oven-safe baking dish and cover with your favorite tomato sauce.
8. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until the meatballs are fully cooked.

Tips for Success

• Use shallots instead of onions for a smoother sauce.
• Ensure the breadcrumbs are thoroughly soaked for a perfect texture.
• If using turkey, monitor the cooking time as it may cook faster than beef.

Additional Tips and Variations

Try serving these meatballs over whole grain spaghetti for a classic Italian meal, or opt for zoodles as a low-carb alternative. Customize the seasoning in the stuffing mix to suit your taste preferences.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: 200 (estimate)
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 5g
• Smart Points: 5

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I freeze these meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze cooked meatballs. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
You can use crushed crackers, oats, or almond flour as a gluten-free alternative.

How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?
Ensure the mixture is well combined and not too dry. The egg helps bind the ingredients together.

Conclusion

These Weight Watchers Italian Meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic dish that you won’t want to miss. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, they offer flavor and comfort without breaking your diet. Give them a try and let us know how they turned out by sharing your experience in the comments below!