Italian beef sandwich

Italian beef sandwich

Lunch

Item Rating: 63/100

1 serving (250 grams) contains 500 calories, 30.0 grams of protein, 20.0 grams of fat, and 40.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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471.7
calories
28.3
protein
37.7
carbohydrates
18.9
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (235.8g)
Calories
471.7
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 18.9 g 24%
Saturated Fat 7.5 g 37%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 66.0 mg 22%
Sodium 1132.1 mg 49%
Total Carbohydrates 37.7 g 13%
Dietary Fiber 1.9 g 6%
Sugars 4.7 g
protein 28.3 g 56%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 94.3 mg 7%
Iron 2.8 mg 15%
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
⚠️ Contains trans fat

Source of Calories

34.7%
26.1%
39.2%
Fat: 170 cal (39.2%)
Protein: 113 cal (26.1%)
Carbs: 150 cal (34.7%)

About Italian beef sandwich

The Italian beef sandwich is a classic dish from Chicago, rooted in Italian-American cuisine from the early 20th century. Traditionally, it features thin slices of slow-cooked, seasoned beef served in a crusty, long Italian roll, often topped with spicy giardiniera or sweet peppers. It is typically consumed as a savory comfort dish. While the beef provides a good source of protein, the sandwich can also be high in sodium and saturated fat depending on preparation methods. Its nutritional profile includes protein (approximately 25-30g per serving), iron, and Vitamin B12 from the beef, though the bread and added toppings may contribute extra calories and sodium.

Health Benefits

  • High in protein (25-30g per serving), which supports muscle repair and growth.
  • Rich in Vitamin B12, vital for red blood cell production and nervous system health.
  • Contains iron, an essential mineral for oxygen transport and reducing fatigue.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains gluten, dairy (if optional cheese is added), mustard (possible in giardiniera)
Suitable for: High-protein diets, non-vegetarian diets
Not suitable for: Vegetarian diets, vegan diets, gluten-free diets (unless gluten-free bread is used)

Selection and Storage

Store cooked beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently to preserve moisture before assembling the sandwich.

Common Questions About Italian beef sandwich Nutrition

How many calories and how much protein are in an Italian beef sandwich?

A typical Italian beef sandwich contains around 450-650 calories and approximately 30-40 grams of protein, depending on the portion size and toppings like cheese or peppers. It is also rich in iron and B vitamins due to the beef, though the sodium content can be quite high, often exceeding 1,000 mg per serving.

Can you eat an Italian beef sandwich on a keto diet?

Traditional Italian beef sandwiches are not keto-friendly due to the high-carb bread. However, you can modify it by skipping the bread and serving the beef with low-carb vegetables or a lettuce wrap, which retains the protein and fats while keeping carbohydrate intake low.

Are there any health concerns with eating Italian beef sandwiches regularly?

Eating Italian beef sandwiches frequently may raise concerns due to the high sodium content, often exceeding daily recommendations, which can impact cardiovascular health. Additionally, the saturated fats from the beef and potential added oils or cheese should be moderated as part of a balanced diet.

What is a recommended portion size for an Italian beef sandwich?

A recommended portion size is typically one sandwich made with 3-4 ounces of beef. To balance the meal, consider pairing it with a side salad or steamed vegetables to incorporate fiber and reduce the overall calorie density.

How does an Italian beef sandwich compare to a cheeseburger in terms of nutrition?

An Italian beef sandwich typically has more protein and is lower in saturated fat compared to a cheeseburger, depending on the preparation. However, it tends to contain more sodium due to the seasoned beef and dipping gravy. Cheeseburgers may provide additional calcium from cheese but are often higher in calories due to added condiments and cooking methods like frying.

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.