Low Sodium Spaghetti with Ground Beef
Savor the comforting flavors of a classic pasta dish with this Low Sodium Spaghetti with Ground Beef recipe—perfect for those looking to enjoy a hearty meal without compromising on health. Featuring tender unsalted spaghetti, lean ground beef, and a robust homemade tomato sauce made with no-salt-added crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, this recipe is a flavorful yet heart-healthy choice. Aromatic garlic, onion, dried herbs like oregano and basil, and a touch of black pepper infuse depth into every bite, while fresh parsley provides a burst of freshness to finish. Ready in just 40 minutes, this easy and nutritious dinner option delivers all the satisfaction of traditional spaghetti without the excessive sodium. Serve it warm, optionally topped with grated low-sodium Parmesan cheese, for a wholesome meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces unsalted spaghetti pasta
- 1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely 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 teaspoons black pepper, freshly ground
- 0.25 teaspoons red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 0.25 cups water (for the sauce, if needed)
- 0.25 cups grated Parmesan cheese (optional, low sodium if available)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the unsalted spaghetti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and swirl to coat the pan.
3. Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for 3–4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
5. Add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it into small pieces. Cook for 6–8 minutes, or until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if needed.
6. Stir in the no salt added crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well.
7. If the sauce seems too thick, add up to 1/4 cup of water to achieve your desired consistency.
8. Reduce the heat to low, and let the sauce simmer for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
9. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional black pepper or herbs as desired. Avoid adding salt to maintain low sodium levels.
10. Toss the cooked spaghetti in the sauce, or serve the sauce on top of the pasta. Use the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
11. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
12. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious low sodium spaghetti with ground beef!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2437 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 118.0 g | 151% | |
| Saturated Fat | 43.0 g | 215% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 364 mg | 121% | |
| Sodium | 1336 mg | 58% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 166.6 g | 61% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.8 g | 74% | |
| Total Sugars | 36.5 g | ||
| Protein | 170.7 g | 341% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 966 mg | 74% | |
| Iron | 19.8 mg | 110% | |
| Potassium | 3801 mg | 81% | |
*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.
