1 serving (300 grams) contains 415 calories, 12.0 grams of protein, 15.0 grams of fat, and 50.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
326.8 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 11.8 g | 15% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.3 g | 31% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 31.5 mg | 10% | |
| Sodium | 472.4 mg | 20% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 39.4 g | 14% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.6 g | 5% | |
| Sugars | 3.1 g | ||
| protein | 9.4 g | 18% | |
| Vitamin D | 7.9 mcg | 39% | |
| Calcium | 118.1 mg | 9% | |
| Iron | 1.2 mg | 6% | |
| Potassium | 157.5 mg | 3% | |
* 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 Penne alfredo
Penne Alfredo is a rich, creamy pasta dish originating in Italy but widely popular worldwide, particularly in Western cuisine. The dish features penne pasta coated in Alfredo sauce made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, offering a luxurious texture and flavor. While delicious, it is calorie-dense due to high fat and carbohydrate content, making it better suited as an occasional indulgence rather than a regular meal. A typical serving contains approximately 300–600 calories, depending on portion size and ingredients used, and provides a source of protein, calcium from cheese, and carbohydrates from pasta, essential for energy. However, it is often low in dietary fiber and high in saturated fats and sodium, so moderation is key for balanced nutrition.
Health Benefits
- Provides energy from carbohydrates in penne pasta, essential for active bodily functions and physical activity.
- Rich in calcium from Parmesan cheese, which helps maintain strong bones and teeth.
- Contains moderate protein levels from cheese and cream, which aids in tissue repair and muscle maintenance.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to maintain the sauce's texture.
Common Questions About Penne alfredo Nutrition
How many calories and protein are in Penne Alfredo?
A typical serving of Penne Alfredo (about 1 cup) contains approximately 400-600 calories and 12-15 grams of protein, depending on the recipe and portion size. The protein primarily comes from the cream, cheese, and any added chicken or seafood.
Is Penne Alfredo suitable for a keto or low-carb diet?
Penne Alfredo is not suitable for a keto or low-carb diet because traditional penne pasta is high in carbohydrates, with one serving containing around 40-45 grams of carbs. However, it can be made keto-friendly by substituting regular pasta with a low-carb alternative like zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.
Are there any health concerns associated with eating Penne Alfredo?
Penne Alfredo is high in calories, saturated fat, and sodium due to the creamy sauce made with butter, cream, and cheese. Regular consumption in large portions may contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of heart disease if not balanced with other nutritious foods.
What is an appropriate serving size for Penne Alfredo?
An appropriate serving size is around 1 cup (approximately 200-250 grams) of Penne Alfredo. For better portion control and balanced nutrition, consider serving it with a side of vegetables or a salad to add fiber and nutrients to the meal.
How does Penne Alfredo compare to other pasta dishes like Spaghetti Carbonara?
Penne Alfredo is generally creamier and higher in calories and fat due to the heavy cream and butter used in its sauce. Spaghetti Carbonara, made with eggs, cheese, pancetta, and black pepper, is slightly lower in calories but higher in protein due to the pancetta and eggs. Both are rich, indulgent dishes that should be enjoyed occasionally.
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.
