Macaroni with ground beef

Macaroni with ground beef

Dinner

Item Rating: 71/100

1 serving (200 grams) contains 350 calories, 20.0 grams of protein, 12.0 grams of fat, and 40.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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411.8
calories
23.5
protein
47.1
carbohydrates
14.1
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (235.3g)
Calories
411.8
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 14.1 g 18%
Saturated Fat 4.7 g 23%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 47.1 mg 15%
Sodium 705.9 mg 30%
Total Carbohydrates 47.1 g 17%
Dietary Fiber 3.5 g 12%
Sugars 4.7 g
protein 23.5 g 47%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 47.1 mg 3%
Iron 2.9 mg 16%
Potassium 352.9 mg 7%

* 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

46.0%
23.0%
31.0%
Fat: 126 cal (31.0%)
Protein: 94 cal (23.0%)
Carbs: 188 cal (46.0%)

About Macaroni with ground beef

Macaroni with ground beef is a comfort food often associated with American, Italian, and Mediterranean cuisines. It typically consists of elbow macaroni pasta mixed with seasoned ground beef, tomato-based sauce, and sometimes vegetables or cheese. This dish provides a balanced macronutrient profile, offering carbohydrates from the pasta, protein and fat from the beef, and vitamins and minerals depending on added ingredients. A standard serving (1 cup) of this dish can contain approximately 300-400 calories, 15-20 grams of protein, and essential nutrients like iron, vitamin B12, and selenium. Vegetable additions can increase its fiber and vitamin content, making it more nutrient-dense. It is a flexible and fulfilling meal option for various preferences.

Health Benefits

  • Provides high-quality protein (15-20 grams per serving) crucial for muscle repair and maintenance.
  • Rich in iron (2-3 mg per serving) from ground beef, supporting red blood cell production and oxygen transport.
  • Contains B vitamins (notably B12) essential for energy metabolism and nervous system health.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains wheat (from pasta), potential dairy (from added cheese)
Suitable for: High-protein diets, general balanced diets
Not suitable for: Gluten-free diets (unless gluten-free pasta is used), vegetarian and vegan diets (if ground beef is included)

Selection and Storage

Store cooked macaroni with ground beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before consuming.

Common Questions About Macaroni with ground beef Nutrition

Is macaroni with ground beef high in protein?

Macaroni with ground beef can be a moderate source of protein, depending on the beef-to-pasta ratio. A typical one-cup serving contains approximately 15-20 grams of protein, with the ground beef contributing the majority. Adding extra lean beef or toppings like cheese can increase the overall protein content.

Can I eat macaroni with ground beef on a keto diet?

Macaroni with ground beef is not suitable for a keto diet in its traditional form due to the high carbohydrate content of the pasta. However, substituting regular pasta with low-carb alternatives, such as zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles, can make it keto-friendly while still including the ground beef.

Are there health benefits or concerns with macaroni and ground beef?

This dish provides a good balance of macronutrients, offering protein from ground beef and carbohydrates from the pasta. However, it can be high in saturated fats and sodium, especially if prepared with regular pasta, fatty beef, or processed sauces. Opting for whole-grain pasta, lean ground beef, and reduced-sodium ingredients can make it healthier.

What is the recommended portion size for macaroni with ground beef?

A standard serving size is about one cup, which typically contains 250-350 calories depending on the recipe's ingredients. This portion provides balanced nutrition but can be adjusted based on individual calorie needs or dietary goals.

How does macaroni with ground beef compare to similar dishes like spaghetti bolognese?

Macaroni with ground beef is similar to spaghetti bolognese but uses shorter pasta, which can give it a different texture and feel. Nutritionally, both dishes are comparable and depend on ingredients used. Whole-grain pasta and lean meat make both options healthier, while choosing tomato-based sauces over cream-based ones reduces 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.

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.