Low Sodium Penne Pasta with Cheese Sauce

Indulge guilt-free with this creamy and flavorful Low Sodium Penne Pasta with Cheese Sauce! Made with whole wheat penne and a velvety cheese sauce crafted from sharp cheddar and Parmesan, this dish proves that comfort food can be both heart-healthy and satisfying. The rich sauce, thickened with a light roux of unsalted butter and flour, is enhanced with low-sodium broth, low-fat milk, and a touch of garlic and onion powder for a burst of savory goodness. Perfectly al dente pasta is coated in this luscious, low-sodium sauce and finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch. Ready in just 30 minutes, this wholesome pasta dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or anytime cravings strike. Perfect for those seeking a healthier twist on a classic favorite!

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 12 ounces Whole wheat penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
• 2 cups Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup Low-fat milk
• 2 cups Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Onion powder
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped
• 4 quarts Water

Directions

Step 1

Bring 4 quarts of water to a rolling boil in a large pot over high heat.

Step 2

Add the whole wheat penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes.

Step 3

While the pasta cooks, melt the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

Step 4

Whisk in the all-purpose flour to the melted butter to create a roux. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and golden.

Step 5

Gradually whisk in the low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth followed by the low-fat milk. Continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 5 minutes.

Step 6

Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until completely melted and smooth.

Step 7

Add garlic powder, onion powder, and ground black pepper to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine.

Step 8

Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well and return it to the pot.

Step 9

Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked penne pasta and stir gently to coat all the pasta evenly.

Step 10

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Step 11

Serve immediately and enjoy your low-sodium penne pasta with cheese sauce!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(5206.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2847.4

Total Fat 132.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 81.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 401.2mg	0%
Sodium 3326.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 280.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 25.8g	0%
Total Sugars 23.4g
Protein 143.4g	0%

Vitamin D 148.8IU	0%
Calcium 3194.4mg	0%
Iron 14.4mg	0%
Potassium 1953.2mg	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: 41.3%

Protein: 19.9%

Carbs: 38.9%