Nachos with cheese sauce

Nachos with cheese sauce

Appetizer

Item Rating: 52/100

1 serving (100 grams) contains 346 calories, 8.0 grams of protein, 21.0 grams of fat, and 34.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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823.8
calories
19.0
protein
81.0
carbohydrates
50
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (238.1g)
Calories
823.8
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 50 g 64%
Saturated Fat 19.0 g 95%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 47.6 mg 15%
Sodium 1666.7 mg 72%
Total Carbohydrates 81.0 g 29%
Dietary Fiber 7.1 g 25%
Sugars 4.8 g
protein 19.0 g 38%
Vitamin D 23.8 mcg 119%
Calcium 476.2 mg 36%
Iron 3.6 mg 20%
Potassium 357.1 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
🧈 High saturated fat

Source of Calories

38.1%
8.9%
52.9%
Fat: 450 cal (52.9%)
Protein: 76 cal (8.9%)
Carbs: 324 cal (38.1%)

About Nachos with cheese sauce

Nachos with cheese sauce are a beloved Mexican-inspired snack that combines crispy tortilla chips with a creamy, savory cheese topping. Originally stemming from Mexican cuisine, nachos were first created in the 1940s and have since become a staple in Tex-Mex menus worldwide. This dish is calorie-dense due to its high-fat and carbohydrate content, primarily from the chips and cheese sauce. Cheese provides a notable amount of protein, calcium, and phosphorus, while tortilla chips contribute carbohydrates and small amounts of fiber if whole-grain options are selected. However, standard nacho preparations are typically high in sodium and saturated fats, which should be consumed in moderation for optimal health.

Health Benefits

  • Cheese contributes calcium, which supports healthy bones and teeth.
  • Phosphorus in cheese helps with energy metabolism and cellular repair.
  • Whole-grain tortilla chips (if used) provide dietary fiber, which improves digestive health.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains milk, gluten (if flour tortillas or processed cheese are used)
Suitable for: Vegetarian
Not suitable for: Vegan, lactose-intolerant individuals (unless lactose-free cheese is used), gluten-free diets (without specific gluten-free chips and cheese sauce)

Selection and Storage

Cheese sauce should be refrigerated in an airtight container and consumed within 3-5 days. Chips should be stored in a cool, dry location to retain crispness.

Common Questions About Nachos with cheese sauce Nutrition

Are nachos with cheese sauce high in calories?

Nachos with cheese sauce are calorie-dense, with about 300-500 calories per serving (typically 1 cup or 150g), depending on the amount of cheese and chips used. They are high in fats and carbohydrates, making them a less ideal choice if you’re watching calorie intake.

Can I eat nachos with cheese sauce on a keto diet?

Traditional nachos with cheese sauce are not keto-friendly due to the high carb content in tortilla chips. However, you can adapt the recipe by using low-carb chips made from almond flour or cheese crisps and ensuring the sauce is made from keto-approved cheeses.

Are nachos with cheese sauce a healthy choice?

Nachos with cheese sauce are typically high in saturated fats, sodium, and refined carbs, which can be concerning if consumed frequently. While they provide a small amount of protein and calcium from the cheese, they should be eaten in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

What is a recommended portion size for nachos with cheese sauce?

A reasonable portion size for nachos with cheese sauce is about 1 cup (150g), which typically provides sufficient calories (around 300-500) for a snack or small meal. Overconsuming can quickly add up in calories and sodium, so balance it with lighter foods and vegetables.

How do nachos with cheese sauce compare to nachos with salsa or guacamole?

Nachos with cheese sauce are significantly higher in calories, fats, and sodium compared to those topped with salsa or guacamole. Salsa provides fewer calories and more vitamins (like vitamin C from tomatoes), while guacamole adds healthy fats from avocados, making them potentially healthier choices.

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.