Indulge in a creamy, guilt-free delight with this Low Sodium Penne Pasta with Alfredo Sauce recipe. Featuring hearty whole wheat penne and a rich sauce crafted from unsalted butter, low sodium chicken broth, and heavy cream, this dish is a heart-healthy twist on the classic favorite. Flavored with fragrant garlic, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and a touch of lemon zest for a bright finish, every bite strikes a perfect balance of comfort and sophistication. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or elegant dinners alike. Serve it hot, garnished with chopped Italian parsley, for a wholesome yet indulgent pasta experience the whole family will adore. Perfect for those seeking low sodium meals without sacrificing flavor!
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the whole wheat penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.
Add the low sodium chicken broth to the skillet and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to slightly reduce.
Stir in the heavy cream and continue to simmer for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend.
Slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and integrate fully into the sauce. Ensure the sauce remains smooth without clumps.
Add the ground black pepper and lemon zest to the sauce, mixing thoroughly to incorporate.
Toss in the cooked penne pasta, gently stirring to mix the pasta with the Alfredo sauce ensuring each piece is well coated.
Serve the pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped Italian parsley.
Optional: Add more grated Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon juice as desired.
Calories |
2778 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 158.2 g | 203% | |
| Saturated Fat | 92.0 g | 460% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 444 mg | 148% | |
| Sodium | 2008 mg | 87% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 247.6 g | 90% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 25.0 g | 89% | |
| Total Sugars | 12.8 g | ||
| Protein | 79.1 g | 158% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1072 mg | 82% | |
| Iron | 12.3 mg | 68% | |
| Potassium | 1787 mg | 38% | |
*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.