Low Sodium Pasta with Meat Sauce and Cheese
Savor the comforting flavors of this Low Sodium Pasta with Meat Sauce and Cheese, a hearty yet health-conscious twist on a classic favorite. Made with wholesome whole wheat pasta and extra-lean ground beef, this recipe delivers all the richness without the excess salt. A vibrant sauce crafted from no-salt-added crushed tomatoes and tomato paste is infused with aromatic garlic, onion, dried herbs, and optional red pepper flakes for a touch of spice. Finished with melted reduced-fat mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this dish promises big flavor with less sodium. Whether you're seeking a satisfying weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal, this oven-baked pasta is a deliciously guilt-free option that’s ready in just under an hour. Ideal for those maintaining a low-sodium diet, it’s perfect for pairing with a crisp side salad or some steamed veggies for a wholesome, balanced meal.
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces whole wheat pasta
- 1 pound extra-lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 28 ounces no salt added crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons no salt added tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup reduced-fat mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until translucent.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1 minute, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it cooks.
Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Lower the heat to medium and add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste to the beef mixture. Stir to combine.
Season the sauce with dried oregano, dried basil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir thoroughly.
Let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In an oven-safe baking dish, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce, mixing well to ensure the pasta is well coated.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Serve warm and enjoy your delicious low sodium pasta with meat sauce and cheese.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1872 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 72.4 g | 93% | |
| Saturated Fat | 28.3 g | 142% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 400 mg | 133% | |
| Sodium | 1160 mg | 50% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 152.2 g | 55% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 29.7 g | 106% | |
| Total Sugars | 39.5 g | ||
| Protein | 165.4 g | 331% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.8 mcg | 4% | |
| Calcium | 1094 mg | 84% | |
| Iron | 22.7 mg | 126% | |
| Potassium | 4124 mg | 88% | |
*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.
