Low Sodium Cheesy Pasta Delight

Indulge in the creamy comfort of Low Sodium Cheesy Pasta Delight, a guilt-free twist on classic mac and cheese that's perfect for heart-healthy meal planning. This quick and easy recipe combines tender whole wheat pasta with a velvety smooth sauce made from unsalted vegetable broth, milk, and reduced-sodium sharp cheddar cheese. Aromatic seasonings like garlic and onion powder enhance the flavor without the need for extra salt, while a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley add the perfect finishing touch. Ready in just 30 minutes, this wholesome, lower-sodium pasta dish is ideal for busy weeknights and proves healthy eating can still be irresistible.

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 8 oz whole wheat pasta
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups unsalted vegetable broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, reduced sodium
• 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the all-purpose flour to the melted butter and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to create a roux. It should take on a light golden color.

Step 4

Gradually whisk in the unsalted vegetable broth and milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 5

Reduce the heat to low and add garlic powder, onion powder, and ground black pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 6

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the reduced sodium sharp cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until they are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 7

Combine the cooked pasta with the cheesy sauce in the saucepan, tossing until the pasta is evenly coated.

Step 8

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Step 9

Serve immediately and enjoy your Low Sodium Cheesy Pasta Delight!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1387.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2201.5

Total Fat 152.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 98.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.2g
Cholesterol 488.6mg	0%
Sodium 1565.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 105.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 11.8g	0%
Total Sugars 16.2g
Protein 120.9g	0%

Vitamin D 184.3IU	0%
Calcium 3187.7mg	0%
Iron 6.1mg	0%
Potassium 1253.6mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 60.2%

Protein: 21.2%

Carbs: 18.6%