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Homemade Weight Watchers Spaghetti Bolognese photo

Weight Watchers Spaghetti Bolognese

A lighter spaghetti bolognese made with lean ground beef, vegetables, and a simple tomato sauce.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces lean ground beef (95% lean)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped medium
  • 1 large carrot, chopped no need to peel
  • 3 cups fresh mushrooms, chopped
  • 14.5 ounce canned diced tomatoes one 14.5-ounce can
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 cup skim milk
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 ounces whole wheat spaghetti, cooked cook according to package directions
  • fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • large nonstick skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Measuring cup
  • Pot for pasta

Method
 

  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the whole wheat spaghetti according to package directions; drain and set aside.
  2. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
  3. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up and stirring frequently, until browned, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in the chopped carrot and cook about 2 minutes, then add the chopped mushrooms and cook briefly to combine.
  6. Add the canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, and dried oregano; bring the mixture to a boil.
  7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes.
  8. Uncover, stir in the skim milk, and continue to cook uncovered until the sauce thickens, about 15 minutes; season with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Divide the cooked spaghetti among 4 bowls and top each with the bolognese sauce; garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

  • Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten free.
  • You can puree the canned tomatoes for a smoother sauce.
  • The sauce freezes well in individual portions.
  • Finely chopping meaty mushrooms (like small portabellos) blends well with the beef.