1 serving (250 grams) contains 310 calories, 12.0 grams of protein, 10.0 grams of fat, and 40.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
292.5 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 9.4 g | 12% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.7 g | 23% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 18.9 mg | 6% | |
| Sodium | 471.7 mg | 20% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 37.7 g | 13% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.9 g | 6% | |
| Sugars | 3.8 g | ||
| protein | 11.3 g | 22% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 141.5 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 1.4 mg | 7% | |
| Potassium | 188.7 mg | 4% | |
* 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
Source of Calories
About Baked macaroni
Baked macaroni is a comforting and popular dish originating from Italian cuisine, often enriched with cheese, creamy sauces, and sometimes proteins like meat or vegetables. Typically made from durum wheat pasta, baked macaroni provides carbohydrates as its primary energy source. Depending on the ingredients used, it can contain notable amounts of calcium (from cheese), protein, and fats, as well as vitamins like B2 and iron from fortified pasta. While traditionally Italian, baked macaroni has become a global favorite and is often customized to incorporate diverse flavors or adhere to various dietary preferences.
Health Benefits
- Provides lasting energy due to complex carbohydrates from durum wheat pasta.
- Supports bone health with a potential high calcium content derived from cheese.
- Contains B vitamins, like B2 (riboflavin), which help convert food into energy.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before consuming.
Common Questions About Baked macaroni Nutrition
How many calories and how much protein is in baked macaroni?
The calorie and protein content of baked macaroni varies with the recipe, but a standard serving (1 cup) typically contains around 300-400 calories and 12-15 grams of protein, depending on the cheese and milk used. This dish also provides moderate amounts of calcium and fat due to its dairy components.
Can I eat baked macaroni on a keto or low-carb diet?
Traditional baked macaroni is not suitable for keto or low-carb diets, as regular pasta is high in carbohydrates (around 40 grams of carbs per cup). However, you can substitute the pasta with low-carb alternatives like zucchini noodles or cauliflower for a keto-friendly version.
Are there health concerns with eating baked macaroni regularly?
Baked macaroni can be high in saturated fats, calories, and sodium depending on the cheese, butter, and cream used in the recipe. Regular consumption might contribute to weight gain or cardiovascular concerns if not balanced with other nutrient-dense foods. Look for healthier ingredient swaps like whole-grain pasta and low-fat dairy to make it more nutritious.
What is the recommended portion size for baked macaroni?
A typical portion of baked macaroni is 1 cup, which is approximately 200-250 grams. As this is a calorie-dense dish, pair it with a side of vegetables or a salad to create a balanced meal and avoid overconsumption.
How does baked macaroni compare to regular mac and cheese in terms of healthiness?
Baked macaroni can often be more calorie-dense than stovetop mac and cheese due to added ingredients like breadcrumbs and extra cheese for the topping. To make baked macaroni healthier, you can cut down on high-fat cheese or use whole-grain pasta for added fiber compared to standard macaroni.
Data Sources & Scientific References
Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.
Additional Authoritative Sources:
Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.
