Low Sodium Macaroni and Cheese with Ground Beef

Indulge in the comforting, guilt-free flavors of Low Sodium Macaroni and Cheese with Ground Beef—a healthier twist on a classic favorite! This hearty dish combines tender elbow macaroni, lean ground beef, and a silky, low-sodium cheddar cheese sauce infused with aromatic garlic, onion, and paprika for a flavorful punch. By using unsalted butter, low-sodium chicken broth, and low-fat milk, this recipe cuts back on sodium without compromising richness or taste. Perfect for busy weeknights, it comes together in just 45 minutes and serves six, making it ideal for families or meal prepping. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this creamy, protein-packed comfort food is both nutritious and satisfying.

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 12 ounces elbow macaroni
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup low-fat milk
• 2 cups shredded low-sodium cheddar cheese
• 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
• 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions or until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3

In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter and melt over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.

Step 4

Gradually whisk in the low-sodium chicken broth and low-fat milk, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5

Lower the heat and add the shredded low-sodium cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 6

Season the cheese sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, ground black pepper, and paprika. Stir until everything is well mixed.

Step 7

Combine the cooked macaroni and ground beef with the cheese sauce in the skillet. Stir to ensure the pasta and beef are well coated with the sauce.

Step 8

Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through, adjusting seasoning if needed.

Step 9

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Step 10

Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1672.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3322.9

Total Fat 140.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 79.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 602.3mg	0%
Sodium 1220.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 296.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 13.7g	0%
Total Sugars 24.9g
Protein 211.3g	0%

Vitamin D 148.8IU	0%
Calcium 1930.9mg	0%
Iron 26.3mg	0%
Potassium 302.9mg	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: 38.4%

Protein: 25.6%

Carbs: 36.0%