Low Sodium Spaghetti with Meatballs and Cheese

Savor comfort food without the guilt with this Low Sodium Spaghetti with Meatballs and Cheese! Crafted with lean ground beef, unsalted breadcrumbs, and low-sodium marinara sauce, this hearty dish delivers all the flavor of a classic Italian favorite but with heart-healthy adjustments. The tender, herbed meatballs are browned to perfection and simmered in a rich, flavorful sauce, while the whole wheat spaghetti adds a wholesome touch. Topped with a sprinkle of low-sodium Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, it’s a well-balanced meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Ready in just 50 minutes, this lighter pasta classic proves you don’t have to compromise on taste to eat smarter!

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound Lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)
• 0.5 cup Plain breadcrumbs (unsalted)
• 1 large Egg
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder (unsalted)
• 1 teaspoon Onion powder (unsalted)
• 1 teaspoon Dried parsley
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 3 cups Low-sodium marinara sauce
• 12 ounces Whole wheat spaghetti
• 0.25 cup Shredded Parmesan cheese (optional, low-sodium preferred)
• 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley (for garnish)
• 4 quarts Water

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, plain breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, and ground black pepper. Mix gently using your hands or a fork until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated, but do not overmix.

Step 2

Form the meat mixture into 16 evenly sized meatballs (about 1-inch in diameter). Set them aside on a plate or tray.

Step 3

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs carefully and set them aside.

Step 4

In the same skillet, pour in the low-sodium marinara sauce. Stir gently to pick up any browned bits from the skillet, which will add flavor to the sauce.

Step 5

Return the browned meatballs to the skillet with the marinara sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 6

Meanwhile, bring 4 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot. Cook the whole wheat spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 7

To serve, divide the cooked spaghetti among four plates. Top each serving with meatballs and some marinara sauce. Sprinkle with shredded Parmesan cheese (if using) and fresh parsley for garnish.

Step 8

Serve warm and enjoy your low-sodium spaghetti with meatballs and cheese!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(5474.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2659.2

Total Fat 127.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 40.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.6g
Cholesterol 579.7mg	0%
Sodium 1194.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 205.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 29.8g	0%
Total Sugars 42.2g
Protein 173.1g	0%

Vitamin D 59.8IU	0%
Calcium 907.8mg	0%
Iron 27.3mg	0%
Potassium 4650.3mg	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: 43.0%

Protein: 26.0%

Carbs: 30.9%