1 serving (250 grams) contains 400 calories, 15.0 grams of protein, 15.0 grams of fat, and 50.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
377.4 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 14.2 g | 18% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.7 g | 28% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 28.3 mg | 9% | |
| Sodium | 566.0 mg | 24% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 47.2 g | 17% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.8 g | 10% | |
| Sugars | 4.7 g | ||
| protein | 14.2 g | 28% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 141.5 mg | 10% | |
| 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
Source of Calories
About Pasta bake
Pasta Bake is a popular comfort food typically associated with Italian cuisine, though it has become a globally loved dish. It usually consists of cooked pasta combined with tomato sauce, cheese, vegetables, and sometimes meat, baked until golden and bubbly. Its nutritional profile varies depending on ingredients used, but it is generally rich in carbohydrates from the pasta, protein and fat from cheese and meats, and vitamins, minerals, and fiber from vegetables. Traditional versions can be calorie-dense and higher in saturated fats, though variations using whole-grain pasta and reduced-fat cheese can improve nutritional value.
Health Benefits
- Provides energy with complex carbohydrates from pasta to fuel the body.
- Contains calcium from cheese, which supports healthy bones and teeth.
- Offers antioxidants like lycopene from tomato sauce, which may help reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store cooked pasta bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly in an oven or microwave before consuming.
Common Questions About Pasta bake Nutrition
Is pasta bake high in protein?
The protein content in pasta bake can vary depending on the ingredients used. For example, a serving made with ground beef, cheese, and whole-wheat pasta may contain approximately 15-20 grams of protein per serving. Vegetarian versions with beans or tofu can also offer a good protein boost.
Can I eat pasta bake on a keto diet?
Traditional pasta bake is not keto-friendly due to the high carbohydrate content of pasta, which can contain 30-40 grams of carbs per serving. To make it keto-compatible, you can use low-carb alternatives like zucchini noodles or cauliflower-based pasta combined with keto-friendly sauces and proteins.
What are the health benefits and concerns of eating pasta bake?
Pasta bake can provide nutrients like fiber (if made with whole-grain pasta), protein (depending on added ingredients), and essential vitamins from vegetables included in the dish. However, it may be high in calories, sodium, or saturated fat if overly prepared with cheese, cream, or processed meats, so moderation is key.
What is a healthy serving size of pasta bake?
A typical serving size for pasta bake is about 1 cup (approximately 200-250 grams). This portion usually contains around 300-400 calories, depending on the ingredients. Pair it with a side of vegetables or salad to balance the meal and avoid overeating.
How does pasta bake compare to lasagna in terms of preparation and nutrition?
Pasta bake is generally quicker to prepare as it doesn’t require layers like lasagna, which can be more time-consuming. Nutritionally, both can be similar, but pasta bake can be more versatile, allowing for whole-grain pasta or lighter sauces. Lasagna may contain slightly more saturated fat due to higher cheese or meat quantities in traditional recipes.
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: Vegetable and Grain-Based DishesU.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)Specifies recommendations for grain-based dishes like pasta bake as part of a balanced diet.
- Whole Grain Intake and Cardiometabolic HealthAmerican Journal of Clinical NutritionDiscusses the health benefits of whole grain pasta, which could be used for a healthier pasta bake recipe.
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.
