Chili mac

Dinner

Item Rating: 71/100

1 serving (250 grams) contains 350 calories, 15.0 grams of protein, 12.0 grams of fat, and 40.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (235.8g)

Calories		330.2
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		11.3 g	14%
	Saturated Fat	3.8 g	19%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		28.3 mg	9%
Sodium		754.7 mg	32%
Total Carbohydrates		37.7 g	13%
	Dietary Fiber	5.7 g	20%
	Sugars	4.7 g
protein		14.2 g	28%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		94.3 mg	7%
Iron		2.8 mg	15%
Potassium		377.4 mg	8%

* 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: 101 cal (32.9%)

Protein: 56 cal (18.4%)

Carbs: 150 cal (48.8%)

About Chili mac

Chili Mac is a comfort food dish that combines two staples: chili, originating from Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisines, and macaroni pasta, a key ingredient in Italian cuisine. This fusion creates a hearty meal often consisting of ground meat, beans, tomatoes, spices, and pasta. Chili Mac is rich in protein and complex carbohydrates, primarily from the beef or beans and pasta. It also provides dietary fiber, vitamins like B6 and folate, and minerals such as iron and potassium, depending on the specific recipe. While it can be calorically dense, incorporating lean proteins, whole-grain pasta, and reduced-sodium options can make it a more balanced dish suitable for various nutritional needs.

Health Benefits

• Rich in protein from lean beef or beans, supporting muscle repair and maintenance (roughly 20-30g per serving in a typical recipe).
• Contains dietary fiber from the beans and whole-grain pasta, promoting digestive health (5-8g per serving depending on ingredient choices).
• Provides iron from beef and beans, supporting oxygen transport and energy metabolism (approximately 2-4 mg per serving).

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains wheat (from pasta), soy (if soy-based ingredients are included), dairy (if cheese or sour cream are used), gluten (in traditional pasta)

Suitable for: High-protein diets, balanced diets

Not suitable for: Gluten-free diets (unless made with gluten-free pasta), vegan diets (if made with meat or dairy), low-carb diets (due to pasta)

Selection and Storage

Store Chili Mac in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months.

Common Questions About Chili mac Nutrition

What is the nutritional content of chili mac?

Chili mac typically provides about 300-400 calories per cup, depends on the recipe, with 12-15 grams of protein, 30-40 grams of carbohydrates, and around 10-15 grams of fat. It may also offer small amounts of vitamins like vitamin A, iron, and calcium, but this varies widely depending on the ingredients used.

Is chili mac suitable for a keto diet?

Chili mac is generally not keto-friendly as it usually contains pasta, which is high in carbohydrates. A standard serving can have 30-40 grams of carbs, far exceeding the daily carb limit for a keto diet. However, you can modify the recipe by using low-carb pasta alternatives to make it more keto-compatible.

Are there any health concerns with eating chili mac?

Chili mac can be high in calories, sodium, and saturated fat depending on the recipe, especially if made with processed or fatty meats and cheese. Consider using lean protein, whole-grain pasta, and reducing added salt to make it a healthier option, particularly for those monitoring heart health or blood pressure.

What is a typical serving size for chili mac and how much should you eat?

A standard serving size for chili mac is about 1 cup, which is reasonable for most adults as a meal. For a balanced diet, pair it with a side of vegetables or a salad to increase fiber intake and promote satiety.

How does chili mac compare to similar comfort foods like beef stroganoff or baked ziti?

Chili mac tends to be higher in protein due to the inclusion of beans or beef compared to dishes like baked ziti, which are often more pasta-heavy. However, baked ziti and beef stroganoff may have richer sauces, contributing to higher fat and calorie content. Chili mac is also often more versatile, allowing for leaner and healthier ingredient swaps.

Data Sources & Scientific References