1 serving (250 grams) contains 400 calories, 10.0 grams of protein, 15.0 grams of fat, and 60.0 grams of carbohydrates.
Log this food in SnapCalorie
Nutrition Information
Calories |
377.4 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 14.2 g | 18% | |
| Saturated Fat | 7.5 g | 37% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 28.3 mg | 9% | |
| Sodium | 566.0 mg | 24% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 56.6 g | 20% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.8 g | 10% | |
| Sugars | 3.8 g | ||
| protein | 9.4 g | 18% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 75.5 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 1.9 mg | 10% | |
| Potassium | 188.7 mg | 4% | |
* 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 with creamy sauce
Pasta with creamy sauce is a comforting dish that originates from Italian cuisine and has become globally popular. Typically made with pasta and a sauce containing dairy cream, cheese, butter, or plant-based alternatives, it is rich and indulgent. The nutritional profile varies based on ingredients, but traditional recipes may contain high amounts of carbohydrates from the pasta, fats from the cream and cheese, and minimal protein unless additional ingredients are added. One serving (about 200g) of a standard creamy pasta dish can provide around 300-600 calories, depending on portion size and sauce composition. Variations with whole-grain pasta or vegetable-based sauces can offer additional fiber and micronutrients, making the dish more balanced and nutrient-dense.
Health Benefits
- Provides energy due to carbohydrates from pasta, which are a primary energy source for the body.
- A source of calcium if made with dairy cream or cheese, supporting bone health.
- Contains fats that help in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) when consumed in moderation.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store cooked pasta with sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly, adding a splash of milk or water to maintain creaminess.
Common Questions About Pasta with creamy sauce Nutrition
Is pasta with creamy sauce high in protein?
Pasta with creamy sauce is typically not high in protein unless additional protein sources like chicken, shrimp, or tofu are added. On average, a 1-cup serving of this dish contains around 7-10 grams of protein, depending on the type of pasta and sauce used.
Can I eat pasta with creamy sauce on a keto diet?
Traditional pasta with creamy sauce is not keto-friendly because both pasta and creamy sauces can be high in carbohydrates. For example, one cup of regular pasta can have 40-45 grams of carbs. However, you can create a keto-friendly version using zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles and a low-carb cream sauce made with heavy cream and cheese.
Is pasta with creamy sauce healthy?
While pasta with creamy sauce can be a satisfying meal, it is often high in refined carbs, saturated fat, and calories, especially if the sauce contains heavy cream and cheese. Overindulging might contribute to weight gain or increased cholesterol levels. Opting for whole-grain pasta and a lighter sauce can make the dish healthier.
What is the recommended serving size for pasta with creamy sauce?
The standard serving size for cooked pasta is 1 cup, which is about 200-250 calories depending on the type of pasta. Adding a creamy sauce typically increases the calorie count to around 400-500 per serving, so portion control is important if you're watching your calorie intake.
How does pasta with creamy sauce compare to pasta with tomato sauce?
Pasta with creamy sauce tends to be higher in calories and fat due to the cream and cheese in the sauce. In contrast, pasta with tomato-based sauce (like marinara) is generally lower in fat and calories, as it mainly consists of tomatoes, herbs, and spices. Tomato sauces also typically provide more vitamins like vitamin C and antioxidants such as lycopene.
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.
