Macaroni pasta with meat sauce

Macaroni pasta with meat sauce

Dinner

Item Rating: 70/100

1 serving (250 grams) contains 350 calories, 15.0 grams of protein, 10.0 grams of fat, and 45.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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330.2
calories
14.2
protein
42.5
carbohydrates
9.4
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (235.8g)
Calories
330.2
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 9.4 g 12%
Saturated Fat 3.8 g 19%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 28.3 mg 9%
Sodium 566.0 mg 24%
Total Carbohydrates 42.5 g 15%
Dietary Fiber 2.8 g 10%
Sugars 5.7 g
protein 14.2 g 28%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 47.2 mg 3%
Iron 2.4 mg 13%
Potassium 377.4 mg 8%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar
⚠️ Contains trans fat

Source of Calories

54.6%
18.2%
27.2%
Fat: 84 cal (27.2%)
Protein: 56 cal (18.2%)
Carbs: 170 cal (54.6%)

About Macaroni pasta with meat sauce

Macaroni pasta with meat sauce is a classic dish rooted in Italian cuisine, combining tube-shaped pasta with a hearty tomato-based meat sauce. This dish is a popular comfort food around the world, often featuring ground beef or pork, tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs like basil and oregano. A typical serving provides a well-rounded nutritional profile, offering carbohydrates from the pasta for energy, protein from the meat for muscle repair, and essential vitamins like B vitamins (niacin and B6). Tomatoes in the sauce are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants such as lycopene, which promote health. Depending on ingredients and portion size, this dish averages 300-400 calories per serving, with moderate fat and sodium content, tailored by the specific recipe and preparation method.

Health Benefits

  • Provides protein from meat (an average serving offers about 15-20g of protein) to support muscle building and tissue repair.
  • Rich in lycopene from tomatoes, which is an antioxidant known to reduce inflammation and support heart health.
  • Contains B vitamins from pasta and meat, including niacin and vitamin B6, essential for energy metabolism and brain function.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains wheat (gluten), egg (if egg-based pasta is used), dairy (if cheese or cream is added)
Suitable for: Omnivorous diets
Not suitable for: Gluten-free diets, vegetarian or vegan diets (unless substituted), low-sodium diets (if prepared with salted ingredients)

Selection and Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before consuming. If freezing, consider storing the pasta and sauce separately for better quality.

Common Questions About Macaroni pasta with meat sauce Nutrition

How much protein and calories does macaroni pasta with meat sauce contain?

One serving (about 1 cup) of macaroni pasta with meat sauce typically contains around 15-20 grams of protein and approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the recipe and portion size. It also provides carbohydrates, fat, and small amounts of vitamins like B12 and iron from the meat sauce.

Can I eat macaroni pasta with meat sauce on a low-carb or keto diet?

Regular macaroni pasta is high in carbohydrates, with around 35-45 grams per serving, making it unsuitable for a keto diet. However, you can modify this dish using low-carb pasta alternatives, such as zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles, to make it compatible with keto or low-carb diets.

What are the health benefits or concerns of eating macaroni pasta with meat sauce?

Macaroni pasta with meat sauce can provide essential nutrients like protein, iron, and B vitamins, particularly from the meat sauce. However, it's often high in refined carbs and saturated fat, depending on the meat used, so moderation is key, especially for individuals managing blood sugar or cholesterol levels.

What is the recommended serving size for macaroni pasta with meat sauce?

A standard serving size is 1 cup, which generally satisfies daily caloric and macronutrient needs when paired with vegetables or a salad. Portion sizes may vary depending on dietary goals, but keeping servings to 1-2 cups avoids excessive calorie and carbohydrate intake.

How does macaroni pasta with meat sauce compare to whole wheat pasta or plant-based meat sauces?

Whole wheat pasta provides more fiber and nutrients, such as magnesium and zinc, compared to refined macaroni pasta. Plant-based meat sauces are lower in saturated fat and suitable for vegetarians or vegans, though they may lack some protein and iron found in traditional meat sauces.