Savor the comforting flavors of classic Italian-inspired cuisine with this Low Sodium Penne with Meat Sauce. Perfect for a heart-healthy diet, this recipe combines whole wheat penne pasta with a rich and hearty meat sauce made from lean ground beef, no-salt-added tomato products, and a fragrant blend of garlic, oregano, and basil. With just 15 minutes of prep and a simmering sauce that brings out robust, savory flavors, this dish is a delightful way to enjoy a wholesome, low-sodium meal. Garnished with fresh parsley and an optional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, it's a deliciously satisfying option that's easy to prepare and perfect for any night of the week. Ideal for those looking for a low sodium pasta recipe that doesnβt skimp on taste!
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the whole wheat penne pasta according to the package directions, omitting any salt. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sautΓ© until it begins to soften, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the lean ground beef, cooking until well browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Break the beef into small crumbles as it cooks.
Drain any excess fat from the skillet and return it to the heat.
Stir in the no-salt-added tomato sauce and no-salt-added diced tomatoes with their juices. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer, uncovered, for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.
Add the cooked penne pasta to the meat sauce and toss to coat the pasta evenly.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Calories |
2416 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 69.8 g | 89% | |
| Saturated Fat | 19.4 g | 97% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 285 mg | 95% | |
| Sodium | 453 mg | 20% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 292.9 g | 107% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 36.2 g | 129% | |
| Total Sugars | 41.0 g | ||
| Protein | 146.8 g | 294% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 364 mg | 28% | |
| Iron | 27.3 mg | 152% | |
| Potassium | 3147 mg | 67% | |
*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.