Cheesy pasta

Cheesy pasta

Dinner

Item Rating: 66/100

1 serving (200 grams) contains 400 calories, 15.0 grams of protein, 15.0 grams of fat, and 50.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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470.6
calories
17.6
protein
58.8
carbohydrates
17.6
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (235.3g)
Calories
470.6
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 17.6 g 22%
Saturated Fat 9.4 g 47%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 35.3 mg 11%
Sodium 705.9 mg 30%
Total Carbohydrates 58.8 g 21%
Dietary Fiber 3.5 g 12%
Sugars 5.9 g
protein 17.6 g 35%
Vitamin D 58.8 mcg 294%
Calcium 235.3 mg 18%
Iron 2.4 mg 13%
Potassium 176.5 mg 3%

* 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

50.7%
15.2%
34.1%
Fat: 158 cal (34.1%)
Protein: 70 cal (15.2%)
Carbs: 235 cal (50.7%)

About Cheesy pasta

Cheesy pasta is a popular dish that combines cooked pasta with a rich cheese-based sauce, often originating from Italian cuisine but widely adapted across various cultures. It typically features cheeses like Parmesan, cheddar, or mozzarella, creating a comforting and flavorful dish. Nutritionally, cheesy pasta is a good source of carbohydrates from the pasta and calcium and protein from the cheese. However, it can also be high in saturated fat and sodium depending on the type and amount of cheese used, making portion control important for overall health.

Health Benefits

  • Provides calcium from cheese, which supports strong bones and teeth.
  • Offers a good source of protein from cheese, essential for muscle repair and growth.
  • Contains carbohydrates from pasta, which serve as a primary energy source for the body.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains gluten (from pasta), dairy (from cheese)
Suitable for: Vegetarian diets (if no animal-based rennet is used in the cheese)
Not suitable for: Vegan diets, gluten-free diets (unless gluten-free pasta is used), lactose-intolerant individuals (unless lactose-free cheese is used), low-sodium diets (due to cheese's sodium content)

Selection and Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to retain the creamy texture.

Common Questions About Cheesy pasta Nutrition

How many calories and protein are in cheesy pasta?

Cheesy pasta typically contains around 300-400 calories per 1-cup serving, depending on the type of cheese, pasta, and added ingredients. It provides about 10-15 grams of protein per serving due to the cheese, but it is also high in carbs and fat, making it less protein-dense compared to other meals.

Is cheesy pasta suitable for a low-carb or keto diet?

Cheesy pasta is not considered suitable for a traditional low-carb or keto diet because regular pasta is high in carbohydrates, with roughly 40-50 grams of carbs per cup. However, you can make a keto-friendly version by using low-carb pasta alternatives, like zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles, and pairing them with cheese.

What are the potential health benefits and concerns of eating cheesy pasta?

Cheesy pasta is a good source of calcium and protein due to the cheese, and it provides energy from its carbohydrate content. However, it can be high in saturated fat, sodium, and calories, which may contribute to weight gain or increased heart disease risk if consumed in excess. Moderation and pairing it with vegetables can make it healthier.

What is the recommended portion size for cheesy pasta?

A standard portion size for cheesy pasta is about 1 cup, which equates to roughly 200-250 grams. This amount keeps calorie and fat intake reasonable while leaving room to add vegetables or a lean protein source for a balanced meal.

How does cheesy pasta compare to macaroni and cheese?

Cheesy pasta and macaroni and cheese are similar in concept, but macaroni and cheese often uses a creamy sauce made with milk and butter, making it richer and higher in calories. Meanwhile, plain cheesy pasta might skip the creamy sauce, relying on melted cheese for flavor, which can slightly lower the fat content.

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.