The colder months are great because they encourage behavior like “cuddling with loved ones” and “wearing big fluffy coats.” Not to mention, the crowd pleasing, “indulging in warm comfort foods”. That one is a favorite of mine as well. Unfortunately, comfort foods are known to be unforgiving and will make you pay the price by adding pounds to your healthy figure.

That’s why I’ve done some research and found some great comfort foods that won’t make you regret picking up a fork. Eating is often a social activity.

Sirloin and Portobello Stew!

Stew is one of my favorite comfort foods. There’s something wonderful about a hearty stew that just warms the soul. However, when we think “hearty”, we don’t often think “low calorie” as well – until now. Check out this great recipe for a hearty sirloin and portobello stew on Delish.com (http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/sirloin-portobello-stew-recipe-5804).

Mac & Cheese!

To make our favorite fall comfort food low in calories, it’s all about substitutions. Instead of using heavy cream and whole milk, change it to skim milk. Instead of using white flour, use whole wheat flower. Instead of using regular elbow macaroni, use half of the amount of whole wheat pasta and add chopped cauliflower to fill in for the rest of the pasta. It has the same texture when it’s cooked and is low in calories and in simple carbohydrates.

Casseroles!

Casseroles are the epitome of comfort. Often they come with noodles or rice that makes it nice and hearty. The flavors are fabulous as well. I’m getting hungry just thinking about it! In order to make casseroles low in calories, take a look at what you’re putting into it. Vegetables make a  great filler instead of foods that are high in carbohydrates and calories. Use skim milk instead of whole milk or heavy whipping cream. Also consider using low fat cheese.

Instead of using white rice, try brown or wild rice. Instead of using regular noodles, try no-yolk egg noodles. Cut the amount of noodles or rice in half and make up for it cauliflower. Wash and dry a head of cauliflower, then put the florets into a food processor until it becomes the size and texture of rice.

Faux Mashed Potatoes!

Instead of regular mashed potatoes, make creamed corn with low fat milk or put a dash of low fat milk in a blender with some cauliflower florets. Add a touch of garlic. When you blend it, watch it to make sure that you get the right consistency and that you don’t over-do it.

Sheppard’s Pie!

For this country meal, they have replaced the potato topping with ready-mashed, winter squash puree. Check it out here: http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/mini_shepherds_pies.html

If you’re looking for a healthy comfort food, it’s all about substituting and watching your portions. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the ingredients while you’re cooking also. If you come up with something good, let us know about it in the comment section below!

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Image by Hans (http://pixabay.com/en/cheese-casserole-vegetable-casserole-283285/)