Macaroni with meat sauce

Dinner

Item Rating: 71/100

1 serving (250 grams) contains 350 calories, 15.0 grams of protein, 10.0 grams of fat, and 45.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (235.8g)

Calories		330.2
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		9.4 g	12%
	Saturated Fat	2.8 g	14%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		28.3 mg	9%
Sodium		566.0 mg	24%
Total Carbohydrates		42.5 g	15%
	Dietary Fiber	2.8 g	10%
	Sugars	4.7 g
protein		14.2 g	28%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		47.2 mg	3%
Iron		1.9 mg	10%
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

Fat: 84 cal (27.2%)

Protein: 56 cal (18.2%)

Carbs: 170 cal (54.6%)

About Macaroni with meat sauce

Macaroni with meat sauce is a classic dish rooted in Italian-American cuisine, combining tender pasta with a ground meat-based tomato sauce. The dish typically includes macaroni pasta, lean ground beef or turkey, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs such as basil and oregano. The nutritional profile is rich in protein from the meat, carbohydrates from the pasta, and essential vitamins like vitamin C and lycopene from the tomatoes. A standard serving provides an energy-dense meal, packed with macronutrients to support daily energy requirements. Its versatility makes it a staple comfort food worldwide.

Health Benefits

• Provides high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth, from the ground meat sources (23-28g protein per serving).
• Tomato-based sauces are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that supports heart health and may reduce cancer risk.
• Macaroni contributes complex carbohydrates, which are important for sustained energy release.
• Contains iron from the meat, which supports healthy oxygen transport in the bloodstream.
• Often prepared with garlic and onions, which contain allicin and quercetin, compounds with anti-inflammatory properties.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains wheat (from pasta), gluten (if not using gluten-free pasta), dairy (if topped with cheese)

Suitable for: High-protein diets, balanced diets

Not suitable for: Gluten-free diets (unless made with gluten-free pasta), vegetarian diets (unless meat substitute is used), vegan diets (unless both meat and cheese are replaced)

Selection and Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly and add a splash of water or broth to maintain sauce consistency.

Common Questions About Macaroni with meat sauce Nutrition

Is macaroni with meat sauce high in protein?

Macaroni with meat sauce provides a moderate amount of protein due to the inclusion of ground meat. A serving of macaroni with meat sauce (1 cup) typically contains around 12-18 grams of protein, depending on the type and amount of meat used. This can make it a decent protein source for a balanced meal.

Can I eat macaroni with meat sauce on a keto diet?

Macaroni with meat sauce is generally not keto-friendly due to the high carbohydrate content in traditional pasta. A typical serving can contain 35-45 grams of carbs, depending on the recipe. To make it keto-compatible, consider substituting the pasta with low-carb options like zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.

What are the health benefits and concerns of eating macaroni with meat sauce?

Macaroni with meat sauce can provide energy from carbohydrates and protein for muscle repair. It often contains iron and B vitamins from the meat, but concerns may arise due to its high calorie content, potential saturated fat, and sodium levels. Using lean meat and whole grain pasta can improve its nutritional profile significantly.

What is the recommended portion size for macaroni with meat sauce?

A standard portion size for macaroni with meat sauce is about 1 to 1.5 cups, which typically provides 300-450 calories depending on the recipe. Pairing it with a side of vegetables can help balance the meal and increase its nutritional value.

How does macaroni with meat sauce compare to spaghetti with marinara in terms of nutrition?

Macaroni with meat sauce is generally higher in protein and calories due to the meat content, with around 300-450 calories per serving depending on the portion size. Spaghetti with marinara is lower in calories, averaging 200-300 calories per serving, but lacks significant protein unless meat or plant-based substitutes are added. Both options can be customized for healthier versions, such as using whole wheat pasta.

Data Sources & Scientific References