Low Sodium Pasta with Ground Beef

Savor a hearty and health-conscious twist on a classic comfort dish with this Low Sodium Pasta with Ground Beef. Made with tender whole wheat pasta and lean ground beef, this recipe keeps the flavor high while cutting back on salt, thanks to no-salt-added diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Aromatic garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning infuse the dish with a vibrant, savory depth, while a hint of red pepper flakes adds just the right touch of heat. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this quick 45-minute meal is garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Optionally top with grated Parmesan for a lightly indulgent finish. Packed with protein, fiber, and bold flavors, this low-sodium pasta recipe is a wholesome choice that satisfies without compromise.

Nutriscore Rating: 76/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 12 ounces whole wheat pasta (penne or spaghetti)
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) no-salt-added diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 ounces) no-salt-added tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
• 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the whole wheat pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 3

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.

Step 5

Pour in the no-salt-added diced tomatoes and no-salt-added tomato sauce. Stir in the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 6

Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 7

Combine the cooked pasta with the beef sauce in the skillet. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly.

Step 8

Garnish the pasta with chopped parsley before serving.

Step 9

If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1438.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2420.7

Total Fat 72.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 28.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.3g
Cholesterol 328.7mg	0%
Sodium 1272.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 288.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 29.9g	0%
Total Sugars 24.4g
Protein 166.3g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 906.8mg	0%
Iron 28.4mg	0%
Potassium 1939.6mg	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: 26.5%

Protein: 26.9%

Carbs: 46.6%