8 Guilt-free comfort food swaps
I love fall-and all the heartier food that comes with it. What I don't love is all the fat and calories, and neither do my jeans. With these easy substitutions, I can still have my macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, and french fries and fit into my clothes too. Here's how a few simple swaps can transform these cool-weather classics into waistline-friendly meals.
Macaroni and Cheese
THE SWAP: Use a combination of reduced-fat dairy products instead of full-fat, mild-flavored cheese. This version has 18% fewer calories and 54% less saturated fat than the traditional one.
CALORIES: 303.8 per serving
Spaghetti and Meatballs
THE SWAP: Replace ground beef with a combination of ground turkey breast and low-fat turkey sausage. For an extra health boost, serve with whole wheat spaghetti.
CALORIES: 369.4 per serving
Try these other delicious pasta dishes.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
THE SWAP: Buttermilk might sound as rich as cream, but it actually has 98% less fat. Crush the garlic before you slice it; to maximize its heart-protective compounds, let it stand while you peel the potatoes. This version has 39% fewer calories and 84% less saturated fat than the traditional version.
CALORIES: 140.4 per serving
French Fries
THE SWAP: Seasoned and baked russet potato strips trump deep-fried restaurant options. This recipe includes a neat trick-a quick run under the broiler at the end- to make the fries nice and crisp without the unhealthy oils and fat.
CALORIES: 150.2 per serving
Find out what fast foods nutritionists approve of.
Chocolate Pudding
THE SWAP: You'd never guess this rich-tasting pudding is made from 1% milk. Cocoa powder has less fat and a higher concentration of antioxidants than regular chocolate; using a combo of both is good for your heart and make-you-swoon delicious. This version has 26% fewer calories and 57% less saturated fat than the traditional version.
CALORIES: 249.8 per serving
Get more delicious chocolate recipes that won't send your blood sugar soaring.
Mixed Berry Cobbler
THE SWAP: Whole-wheat flour and ground cornmeal make a healthy, low-cal crust; the berries are loaded with vitamins, antioxidants, and filling fiber.
CALORIES: 187.7 per serving
Meat Loaf with Mushroom Gravy
THE SWAP: Flavor boosters such as mushrooms, garlic, herbs, and wine enhance the flavor of lean beef. For easier slicing, let the meat loaf cool 10 minutes before serving. This version has 56% fewer calories and 81% less saturated fat than the traditional version.
CALORIES: 218.4 per serving
Chicken and Dumplings
THE SWAP: Making the sauce with reduced-fat sour cream instead of heavy cream slashes the saturated fat in this all-in-one main dish. Add the gnocchi-like dumplings to the simmering broth at the last minute to preserve their light, tender texture. This version has 25% fewer calories and 69% less saturated fat than the traditional version.
CALORIES: 361.1 per serving
See the full recipe
Plus, don't miss out on these 10 slimming chicken recipes.
More delicious and healthy food ideas from Prevention:
The Secret to Slim: 400-Calorie Meals
Free Guide: Foods That Fight Belly Fat
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