Baked rigatoni

Dinner

Item Rating: 68/100

1 serving (250 grams) contains 400 calories, 20.0 grams of protein, 15.0 grams of fat, and 50.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (235.8g)

Calories		377.4
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		14.2 g	18%
	Saturated Fat	6.6 g	33%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		28.3 mg	9%
Sodium		754.7 mg	32%
Total Carbohydrates		47.2 g	17%
	Dietary Fiber	2.8 g	10%
	Sugars	5.7 g
protein		18.9 g	37%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		141.5 mg	10%
Iron		1.9 mg	10%
Potassium		283.0 mg	6%

* 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

Source of Calories

Fat: 127 cal (32.6%)

Protein: 75 cal (19.3%)

Carbs: 188 cal (48.1%)

About Baked rigatoni

Baked Rigatoni is a comforting Italian pasta dish made with rigatoni, a tube-shaped pasta, combined with ingredients such as tomato sauce, cheese, meat or vegetables, and baked to golden perfection. Originating from traditional Italian cuisine, this dish is hearty and rich in flavor, often enjoyed as a main course. Nutritionally, baked rigatoni provides a balance of carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from meat or cheese, and essential vitamins and antioxidants from tomato-based sauces. The nutritional profile can vary widely depending on preparation, but it typically offers a decent source of energy with added micronutrients such as calcium, iron, and vitamin C when prepared with wholesome ingredients.

Health Benefits

• Provides sustained energy due to its high carbohydrate content from pasta, which is a source of dietary starch.
• Supports bone health with calcium from cheese, contributing to strong bones and teeth.
• Tomato-based sauces contain lycopene, an antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains gluten, dairy

Suitable for: Vegetarian (if made without meat), mediterranean diet (with balanced preparation)

Not suitable for: Gluten-free diets, lactose intolerant diets (unless prepared with lactose-free cheese), vegan diets (unless made with plant-based substitutes)

Selection and Storage

Store leftover baked rigatoni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before consumption, either in a microwave or oven.

Common Questions About Baked rigatoni Nutrition

Is baked rigatoni high in protein?

Baked rigatoni is moderately high in protein depending on the ingredients used. A typical serving with cheese and meat can provide 15-20 grams of protein per cup. Without meat or cheese, the protein content drops significantly, as plain pasta itself contains about 7 grams per cup.

Can I eat baked rigatoni on a keto diet?

Traditional baked rigatoni is not keto-friendly as it is high in carbohydrates. Rigatoni pasta contains approximately 43 grams of carbs per cup, which exceeds the daily limit for most keto diets. However, you can try keto-friendly pasta alternatives like zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles with similar preparation methods.

Is baked rigatoni healthy or unhealthy?

Baked rigatoni can be part of a balanced diet when prepared with healthier ingredients. It provides carbohydrates for energy, and adding vegetables, lean protein, and low-fat cheese can enhance its nutritional profile. However, it can be high in calories, sodium, and saturated fat if made with excessive cheese or processed meats, so portion control is key.

What is a recommended serving size for baked rigatoni?

A standard serving size for baked rigatoni is about one cup, which typically contains 250-350 calories depending on the recipe. For a balanced meal, pair it with a side of salad or steamed vegetables to control portion sizes and boost nutrient intake.

How does baked rigatoni compare to lasagna?

Baked rigatoni and lasagna are similar pasta dishes but differ in preparation and layering. Lasagna is made with flat pasta sheets layered with sauce and fillings, while baked rigatoni uses tubular pasta that is mixed with sauce and baked. Nutritionally, they are comparable, though lasagna might contain more calories if made with bechamel sauce or extra layers of cheese.

Data Sources & Scientific References