Low Sodium Penne Pasta with Cheese Sauce
Indulge in creamy comfort with this *Low Sodium Penne Pasta with Cheese Sauce*, a healthier twist on a classic favorite. Made with whole wheat penne and a velvety sauce crafted from sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and a light blend of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, this dish is packed with flavor without the excess sodium. A touch of garlic and onion powder enhances the cheesy richness, while freshly chopped parsley adds a bright, fresh finish. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this quick and easy recipe comes together in just 30 minutes for a wholesome, family-friendly meal you’ll love. Ideal for those looking for a lower-sodium option without compromising on taste, this pasta dish is hearty, satisfying, and irresistibly delicious.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces Whole wheat penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
- 2 cups Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup Low-fat milk
- 2 cups Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon Ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped
- 4 quarts Water
Instructions
Bring 4 quarts of water to a rolling boil in a large pot over high heat.
Add the whole wheat penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes.
While the pasta cooks, melt the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Whisk in the all-purpose flour to the melted butter to create a roux. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and golden.
Gradually whisk in the low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth followed by the low-fat milk. Continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 5 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until completely melted and smooth.
Add garlic powder, onion powder, and ground black pepper to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine.
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well and return it to the pot.
Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked penne pasta and stir gently to coat all the pasta evenly.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Serve immediately and enjoy your low-sodium penne pasta with cheese sauce!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2847 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 132.4 g | 170% | |
| Saturated Fat | 81.1 g | 406% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 401 mg | 134% | |
| Sodium | 3326 mg | 145% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 280.8 g | 102% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 25.8 g | 92% | |
| Total Sugars | 23.4 g | ||
| Protein | 143.4 g | 287% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.7 mcg | 19% | |
| Calcium | 3194 mg | 246% | |
| Iron | 14.4 mg | 80% | |
| Potassium | 1953 mg | 42% | |
*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.
