1 serving (85 grams) contains 250 calories, 15.0 grams of protein, 20.0 grams of fat, and 5.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
694.4 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 55.6 g | 71% | |
| Saturated Fat | 22.2 g | 111% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 138.9 mg | 46% | |
| Sodium | 1111.1 mg | 48% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 13.9 g | 5% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0 g | 0% | |
| Sugars | 2.8 g | ||
| protein | 41.7 g | 83% | |
| Vitamin D | 27.8 mcg | 139% | |
| Calcium | 55.6 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 4.2 mg | 23% | |
| Potassium | 555.6 mg | 11% | |
* 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 Meatballs
Meatballs are a versatile dish composed primarily of ground meat blended with seasonings, binders like breadcrumbs or eggs, and sometimes additional ingredients such as herbs and vegetables. Originating from various cuisines across the globe, meatballs are especially popular in Italian, Swedish, and Middle Eastern cooking. The nutritional profile of meatballs depends on the ingredients used, but generally, they are high in protein and fats with moderate calorie content. A serving of meatballs (typically 100g) provides around 294 calories, 17.6g of protein, and 23.5g of fat. While low in carbohydrates and fiber, they contain modest amounts of essential minerals such as calcium and iron, plus a small dose of vitamin D, making it a satisfying and nutrient-rich choice when consumed in moderation.
Health Benefits
- Rich in protein (17.6g per serving), which aids muscle repair and growth.
- Provides iron (1.76mg), supporting oxygen transport in the blood and overall energy levels.
- Contains vitamin D (11.76 IU), important for bone health and immune system function.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before consuming.
Common Questions About Meatballs Nutrition
Are meatballs high in protein?
Yes, meatballs are high in protein, providing approximately 17.6 grams per serving (100 grams). This makes them a great option for those looking to increase their protein intake for muscle repair and growth.
Can I eat meatballs on a keto diet?
Meatballs are generally keto-friendly due to their low carbohydrate content of only 5.9 grams per 100 grams. However, be cautious of added breadcrumbs or fillers, which can increase carb levels; opt for meatballs made without high-carb ingredients for best compatibility.
Are there health concerns associated with eating meatballs?
Meatballs can be high in fat, containing about 23.5 grams per 100 grams, including saturated fat, which may need to be limited for heart health. Additionally, they contain 470.6 mg of sodium per serving, so individuals on low-sodium diets should monitor portion sizes to avoid excess intake.
What is the recommended serving size for meatballs?
A typical serving size for meatballs is 3-4 pieces, equivalent to around 100 grams or 294 calories. This portion is ideal for balancing nutrients while keeping total calorie intake within moderate ranges for a meal.
How do meatballs compare to other types of meat preparations?
Compared to plain cooked ground beef, meatballs tend to have slightly higher sodium and carbohydrates due to added seasonings and fillers. However, they can be customized to include additional spices, herbs, or alternative binders like almond flour for healthier versions.
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.
- Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025: Protein FoodsU.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Health and Human ServicesDetails the role of protein foods like meatballs in a balanced diet, including recommended consumption patterns.
- Nutritional Composition of Meat Products and Effects on Human HealthAmerican Journal of Clinical NutritionDiscusses the composition and health impacts of meat products, including commonly consumed foods like meatballs.
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.
