Spaghetti with meatballs and tomato sauce

Spaghetti with meatballs and tomato sauce

Dinner

Item Rating: 72/100

1 serving (350 grams) contains 500 calories, 25.0 grams of protein, 15.0 grams of fat, and 60.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Log this food in SnapCalorie

★★★★★ 4.8/5.0 (2,000+ reviews)
Get your calorie requirement
Log your nutrition in seconds
Get a personalized nutrition plan
SnapCalorie App Screenshot
337.8
calories
16.9
protein
40.5
carbohydrates
10.1
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (236.5g)
Calories
337.8
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 10.1 g 12%
Saturated Fat 3.4 g 17%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 33.8 mg 11%
Sodium 540.5 mg 23%
Total Carbohydrates 40.5 g 14%
Dietary Fiber 2.7 g 9%
Sugars 5.4 g
protein 16.9 g 33%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 67.6 mg 5%
Iron 2.0 mg 11%
Potassium 270.3 mg 5%

* 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

50.5%
21.1%
28.4%
Fat: 90 cal (28.4%)
Protein: 67 cal (21.1%)
Carbs: 162 cal (50.5%)

About Spaghetti with meatballs and tomato sauce

Spaghetti with meatballs and tomato sauce is a classic Italian-American dish with origins in Italy, where pasta dishes have long been a staple. This meal typically combines al dente spaghetti, tender meatballs made from ground meat (often beef or pork), and a rich tomato sauce seasoned with garlic, onion, and herbs. Nutritionally, it offers a balance of macronutrients: protein from the meat, carbohydrates from the pasta, and fiber from the tomatoes. Depending on portion size and preparation, it can range from 400-700 calories per serving and provides vitamins like B12, lycopene from tomatoes, and iron from the meat. While rich and satisfying, it can also be modified to suit various dietary goals.

Health Benefits

  • Provides protein from meatballs, which aids in muscle repair and immune function.
  • Tomato sauce is a good source of lycopene, an antioxidant that supports heart health.
  • Contains iron from the ground meat, which is essential for red blood cell production and oxygen transport.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains gluten (from pasta), milk (if cheese is added), egg (if present in meatballs)
Suitable for: Omnivorous diets
Not suitable for: Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free (if cheese is added)

Selection and Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly on the stovetop or in the microwave to ensure safety and preserve flavor.

Common Questions About Spaghetti with meatballs and tomato sauce Nutrition

Is spaghetti with meatballs and tomato sauce high in protein?

Spaghetti with meatballs and tomato sauce can provide around 20-25 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the meatballs, which are typically made from beef, pork, or a combination. The exact protein content depends on the recipe, but it is generally considered a solid source of protein for a meal.

Can I eat spaghetti with meatballs and tomato sauce on a keto diet?

Traditional spaghetti is high in carbohydrates and not keto-friendly, but you can use alternatives like zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles to make it compatible with a keto diet. Ensure your meatballs contain minimal fillers like breadcrumbs, and choose a tomato sauce with no added sugars for a truly keto-friendly version.

Are there any health concerns with eating spaghetti with meatballs and tomato sauce?

Depending on the preparation, spaghetti with meatballs can be high in sodium, especially if meatballs or sauce are store-bought. Additionally, traditional pasta is high in refined carbohydrates, which might raise blood sugar levels. Opt for whole grain spaghetti or balanced portions to mitigate these concerns.

What is a good serving size for spaghetti with meatballs and tomato sauce?

A recommended serving size is about 1 cup of cooked spaghetti (approximately 200 calories) with 2-3 meatballs (100-150 calories each) and 1/4 cup of tomato sauce (40-60 calories). The total serving size should be around 400-500 calories depending on the recipe, making it a balanced choice for a single meal.

How does spaghetti with meatballs compare to spaghetti with marinara sauce in nutrition?

Spaghetti with meatballs typically has higher protein and fat content than spaghetti with marinara sauce due to the meatballs. While marinara sauce alone is lower in calories (about 50-70 per serving), adding meatballs can bring the calorie count to 400-500 per serving, depending on the type of meat used.