1 serving (300 grams) contains 450 calories, 20.0 grams of protein, 15.0 grams of fat, and 50.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
354.3 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 11.8 g | 15% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.5 g | 27% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 23.6 mg | 7% | |
| Sodium | 629.9 mg | 27% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 39.4 g | 14% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.4 g | 8% | |
| Sugars | 4.7 g | ||
| protein | 15.7 g | 31% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 118.1 mg | 9% | |
| Iron | 1.6 mg | 8% | |
| Potassium | 236.2 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
Source of Calories
About Baked ziti
Baked Ziti is a classic Italian-American comfort dish typically made with ziti pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and occasionally ground meats such as sausage or beef. Originating in Italy, it adapted in the United States and became a staple for gatherings due to its hearty, oven-baked nature. Nutritionally, it is a source of complex carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from the cheese and meat, and various vitamins such as vitamin A and lycopene from the tomato sauce. However, the calorie content can be substantial depending on the cheese and meat used, making portion control important for balanced consumption.
Health Benefits
- Provides energy through complex carbohydrates from ziti pasta, supporting daily activities and brain function.
- Offers calcium from ricotta and mozzarella cheese, which supports bone health and maintenance.
- Contains lycopene-rich tomato sauce, an antioxidant linked to heart health and reduced inflammation.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store baked ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze leftover portions for up to 3 months and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Common Questions About Baked ziti Nutrition
Is baked ziti high in protein?
Baked ziti can be moderately high in protein depending on the recipe. When made with ricotta, mozzarella, and meat sauce, a single serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately 15-20 grams of protein. Vegetarian versions without meat may provide slightly less protein, around 10-15 grams per serving.
Can I eat baked ziti on a keto diet?
Traditional baked ziti is not keto-friendly due to its high carbohydrate content, primarily from pasta. One serving can contain 35-50 grams of carbohydrates, which is too high for a standard keto diet. However, you can make a keto-friendly version using low-carb pasta alternatives or substituting zucchini or spaghetti squash for the pasta.
Are there any health benefits or concerns with eating baked ziti?
Baked ziti provides nutrients such as calcium from dairy cheese and lycopene from tomato sauce. However, it can also be high in calories, sodium, and saturated fats, depending on the ingredients used. Moderation is key, and opting for whole-grain pasta or reduced-fat cheeses can make it a healthier option.
What is the recommended portion size for baked ziti?
A standard portion size of baked ziti is about 1 cup, which typically contains 300-450 calories depending on the recipe. To balance your meal, pair it with a side of vegetables or a salad, and account for your overall caloric and nutritional goals.
How does baked ziti compare to lasagna?
Baked ziti and lasagna are similar in terms of ingredients, but lasagna is typically layered and uses flat noodles, while baked ziti uses tubular pasta mixed together with sauce and cheese. Calorie and nutrient content depend on the recipe, but lasagna is generally more labor-intensive, while baked ziti is quicker to prepare and often easier to serve.
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.
- Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of AgricultureThe guidelines discuss balanced meals incorporating grains, dairy, and protein, which align with baked ziti’s ingredients.
- Calcium Fact Sheet for ConsumersNational Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of Dietary SupplementsFocuses on calcium, a key nutrient found in baked ziti from cheese, relevant to bone health and dietary intake.
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.
