Low Sodium Penne Pasta with Meat Sauce
Savor the rich, hearty flavors of this Low Sodium Penne Pasta with Meat Sauce, a wholesome twist on a classic comfort food that's perfect for those watching their salt intake. Packed with tender penne, lean ground beef, and a robust tomato-based sauce made with no-salt-added crushed tomatoes, this recipe proves that low sodium doesn't mean low flavor. Aromatic garlic, onions, and a medley of dried herbs like oregano and basil infuse the sauce with irresistible depth, while a pinch of red pepper flakes adds optional heat. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a comforting simmer on the stovetop, this meal is ideal for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Top it off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a touch of Parmesan (if desired), and you have a satisfying, heart-healthy dinner that everyone will love. Perfect for serving a family of four, this easy-to-make pasta dish brings bold flavor in every bite without compromising nutrition.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces Penne pasta
- 1 pound Ground beef (preferably lean)
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 1 piece Large onion, finely chopped
- 3 pieces Garlic cloves, minced
- 28 ounces Canned no-salt-added crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons Tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon Dried basil
- 1 piece Bay leaf
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped
- 0.25 cup Grated parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until softened.
Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, ensuring not to let it burn.
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pan. Cook, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the no-salt-added crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Mix well to combine.
Add the dried oregano, dried basil, bay leaf, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine the spices evenly through the sauce.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the sauce simmer for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded, remove the bay leaf.
Add the cooked penne pasta into the meat sauce and toss until well coated.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and grated parmesan cheese (if using) before serving.
Serve warm and enjoy your low sodium penne pasta with meat sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2904 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 106.9 g | 137% | |
| Saturated Fat | 41.1 g | 206% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 349 mg | 116% | |
| Sodium | 1304 mg | 57% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 323.1 g | 117% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 30.9 g | 110% | |
| Total Sugars | 40.5 g | ||
| Protein | 163.6 g | 327% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 966 mg | 74% | |
| Iron | 27.1 mg | 151% | |
| Potassium | 4501 mg | 96% | |
*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.
