Low Sodium Macaroni and Cheese with Ground Beef
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Low Sodium Macaroni and Cheese with Ground Beef—a healthier twist on a family favorite! This wholesome one-pan dish combines protein-packed lean ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich, velvety cheese sauce made from low-sodium cheddar, all seasoned to perfection with a touch of garlic, onion powder, and paprika. The secret lies in using low-sodium chicken broth and unsalted butter to keep the flavors bold without the extra salt. Ready in just 45 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, serving six hearty portions. Garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of brightness, it’s a cozy and satisfying meal the whole family will love—without the guilt!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup low-fat milk
- 2 cups shredded low-sodium cheddar cheese
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
Instructions
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions or until al dente. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter and melt over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in the low-sodium chicken broth and low-fat milk, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.
Lower the heat and add the shredded low-sodium cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is creamy.
Season the cheese sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, ground black pepper, and paprika. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Combine the cooked macaroni and ground beef with the cheese sauce in the skillet. Stir to ensure the pasta and beef are well coated with the sauce.
Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through, adjusting seasoning if needed.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3323 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 140.6 g | 180% | |
| Saturated Fat | 79.2 g | 396% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 602 mg | 201% | |
| Sodium | 1220 mg | 53% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 296.7 g | 108% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 13.7 g | 49% | |
| Total Sugars | 24.9 g | ||
| Protein | 211.3 g | 423% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.7 mcg | 19% | |
| Calcium | 1931 mg | 149% | |
| Iron | 26.3 mg | 146% | |
| Potassium | 303 mg | 6% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
