1 serving (85 grams) contains 250 calories, 13.0 grams of protein, 20.0 grams of fat, and 5.0 grams of carbohydrates.
Log this food in SnapCalorie
Nutrition Information
Calories |
588.2 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 47.1 g | 60% | |
| Saturated Fat | 18.8 g | 94% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 105.9 mg | 35% | |
| Sodium | 847.1 mg | 36% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 11.8 g | 4% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.4 g | 8% | |
| Sugars | 0 g | ||
| protein | 30.6 g | 61% | |
| Vitamin D | 38 mcg | 190% | |
| Calcium | 118.1 mg | 9% | |
| Iron | 3.3 mg | 18% | |
| Potassium | 611.8 mg | 13% | |
* 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 Italian meatballs
Italian meatballs are a classic dish from Italian cuisine, typically made from ground beef, pork, or a mix of meats, combined with breadcrumbs, eggs, herbs, and spices. They are often served with marinara sauce and pasta or enjoyed on their own. Rich in protein and essential nutrients, Italian meatballs provide an excellent source of energy and building blocks for body tissues. Depending on preparation, they can also contain moderate amounts of fat and cholesterol. Traditional recipes may incorporate Parmesan cheese for added flavor and nutrients like calcium, but this increases the sodium content. As a versatile dish, Italian meatballs can be customized with lean meats or alternative ingredients to suit dietary preferences while maintaining their hearty, satisfying appeal.
Health Benefits
- Rich in protein, essential for muscle repair and maintenance.
- Provides iron, a mineral important for red blood cell production and oxygen transport.
- Contains B vitamins (such as vitamin B12), which support energy metabolism and nerve function.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer preservation (up to 3 months). Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Common Questions About Italian meatballs Nutrition
Are Italian meatballs high in protein?
Yes, Italian meatballs are typically high in protein due to their main ingredient, ground meat (such as beef, pork, or turkey). On average, a serving of 3 medium-sized meatballs (about 85g) contains around 15-20 grams of protein, depending on the recipe. The exact protein content can vary based on the type of meat and additional ingredients used.
Can I eat Italian meatballs on a keto diet?
Italian meatballs can be consumed on a keto diet, but you'll need to ensure they are made without breadcrumbs or other high-carb fillers. A keto-friendly version typically uses almond flour, crushed pork rinds, or no filler at all. Standard recipes with breadcrumbs may contain 3-5g of carbs per serving, so look for low-carb adaptations if you're following keto.
Are Italian meatballs healthy?
Italian meatballs can be a healthy source of protein, B vitamins, and zinc, especially when made with lean meats like turkey or chicken. However, they can also be high in saturated fat and sodium, particularly if they're made with fattier cuts of meat or store-bought sauces. Balancing portion size and opting for more wholesome ingredients can improve their health benefits.
How many meatballs should I serve per person?
A typical serving size is 3-4 medium-sized meatballs per person, which is roughly 85-100 grams. This provides a balanced portion for protein intake when paired with sides like vegetables or pasta. For larger appetites or main-course servings, you might want to increase to 5-6 meatballs per person.
Are Italian meatballs better baked or fried?
Baking Italian meatballs is a healthier option, as it requires less added fat and allows excess grease to drain away. Frying, on the other hand, can add more calories and fat but often delivers a crispier texture. Both methods are flavorful, but baking is a better choice for reducing calories and saturated fat.
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.
- USDA FoodData - Italian meatballs DataU.S. Department of AgricultureOfficial nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.
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.
