1 serving (250 grams) contains 350 calories, 20.0 grams of protein, 10.0 grams of fat, and 45.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
330.2 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 9.4 g | 12% | |
| Saturated Fat | 3.8 g | 19% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 37.7 mg | 12% | |
| Sodium | 377.4 mg | 16% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 42.5 g | 15% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.8 g | 10% | |
| Sugars | 4.7 g | ||
| protein | 18.9 g | 37% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 37.7 mg | 2% | |
| Iron | 2.8 mg | 15% | |
| Potassium | 377.4 mg | 8% | |
* 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 Spaghetti and ground beef
Spaghetti and ground beef is a classic dish rooted primarily in Italian cuisine, though variations are found worldwide. It combines pasta, a carbohydrate-rich staple, with ground beef, a key source of protein. Nutritionally, a balanced serving of spaghetti and ground beef provides an array of macronutrients, including carbohydrates for energy, protein for muscle repair, and fats for calorie density. It also delivers essential micronutrients such as iron and B vitamins from beef, complemented by potential fiber and antioxidants if enriched with tomato-based sauces, vegetables, or whole-grain pasta. This dish can be tailored to accommodate various dietary preferences, including low-fat or high-protein variations, making it a versatile meal for many households.
Health Benefits
- High-quality protein from beef supports muscle development and maintenance, containing all essential amino acids.
- Rich in iron, particularly heme iron from ground beef, which aids in oxygen transport and prevents iron-deficiency anemia.
- Provides B vitamins, especially B12 from ground beef, which is critical for red blood cell formation and neurological health.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store cooked spaghetti and ground beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before eating. Freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
Common Questions About Spaghetti and ground beef Nutrition
Is spaghetti and ground beef high in protein?
Yes, spaghetti and ground beef is a good source of protein. A typical serving with 4 oz of cooked ground beef and 1 cup of cooked spaghetti can provide around 25-30 grams of protein, depending on the leanness of the beef. Lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) is recommended for a higher protein-to-fat ratio.
Can I eat spaghetti and ground beef on a keto diet?
Traditional spaghetti and ground beef is not keto-friendly due to the high carbohydrate content of spaghetti (around 43 grams of carbs per cooked cup). However, it can be modified by using low-carb alternatives like zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles while pairing them with a high-fat, low-carb ground beef sauce.
What are the health benefits and concerns of eating spaghetti and ground beef?
Spaghetti and ground beef can provide essential nutrients like protein, iron, and B vitamins from the beef, and some energy from carbohydrates in spaghetti. However, it can be high in calories and saturated fat, particularly if made with regular ground beef and rich sauces. To make it healthier, opt for whole-grain or alternative noodles and lean ground beef.
What is the recommended serving size for spaghetti and ground beef?
A recommended portion size for spaghetti is about 1 cup of cooked pasta (approximately 2 oz dry) and 4-6 oz of cooked ground beef. This would result in a balanced meal with roughly 400-600 calories, depending on the preparation. Watching portion sizes can help avoid overconsuming calories.
How does spaghetti and ground beef compare to other pasta dishes?
Spaghetti and ground beef is typically higher in protein compared to pasta dishes without meat. However, it can also be higher in fats and calories depending on the type and amount of beef and sauce used. For a lighter option, consider substituting ground beef with ground turkey or adding more vegetables to the dish for added fiber and nutrients.
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.
