Stuffed pasta shell

Dinner

Item Rating: 67/100

1 serving (150 grams) contains 250 calories, 12.0 grams of protein, 10.0 grams of fat, and 30.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (238.1g)

Calories		396.8
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		15.9 g	20%
	Saturated Fat	7.9 g	39%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		47.6 mg	15%
Sodium		793.7 mg	34%
Total Carbohydrates		47.6 g	17%
	Dietary Fiber	3.2 g	11%
	Sugars	4.8 g
protein		19.0 g	38%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		238.1 mg	18%
Iron		3.2 mg	17%
Potassium		396.8 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

🍯 Low sugar

Source of Calories

Fat: 143 cal (34.9%)

Protein: 76 cal (18.6%)

Carbs: 190 cal (46.5%)

About Stuffed pasta shell

Stuffed pasta shells are a classic Italian-American dish featuring large, cooked pasta shells filled with a variety of savory mixtures, such as ricotta cheese, spinach, meat, and spices, often baked with marinara sauce and cheese on top. Originating from Italian cuisine, this dish combines nutrient-rich ingredients. A typical serving delivers carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from cheese or meat fillings, and essential vitamins and minerals from ingredients like spinach and marinara sauce. Depending on the specific recipe, stuffed pasta shells may provide about 250-400 calories per serving, along with calcium, iron, and dietary fiber.

Health Benefits

• Rich in calcium due to ricotta or mozzarella cheese, supporting bone health.
• Provides iron from spinach and other leafy greens in the filling, crucial for red blood cell production.
• Offers a source of complex carbohydrates through the pasta shells, supplying energy for daily activities.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains wheat (gluten), dairy, eggs (if included in the pasta or filling)

Suitable for: Vegetarian (if no meat in filling), lacto-ovo vegetarian (if eggs or dairy included)

Not suitable for: Gluten-free diets, vegan diets (if dairy, eggs, or meat used), dairy-free diets

Selection and Storage

Store leftover stuffed pasta shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in an oven or microwave for best texture and flavor.

Common Questions About Stuffed pasta shell Nutrition

Is stuffed pasta shell high in protein?

The protein content of stuffed pasta shells varies depending on the filling. On average, stuffed pasta shells with a ricotta and spinach filling provide about 10-12 grams of protein per serving (3-4 shells). Adding meat like ground turkey or sausage can increase the protein content significantly, providing up to 20-25 grams per serving.

Can I eat stuffed pasta shells on a keto diet?

Stuffed pasta shells are not keto-friendly as traditional pasta is high in carbohydrates. A single large shell contains approximately 4-5 grams of carbs and combined with the filling can result in around 30-40 grams of carbs per serving. For a keto alternative, consider using low-carb pasta substitutes like zucchini boats or cheese shells.

Are stuffed pasta shells healthy?

Stuffed pasta shells can be a healthy option depending on the ingredients. The ricotta and spinach filling provides calcium, iron, and vitamin A, while lean meats can add protein. However, they can also be high in calories (about 300-400 calories per serving) and saturated fats, especially if topped with cheese or creamy sauces. Opt for reduced-fat cheese and whole-grain pasta to make them healthier.

What is the recommended portion size for stuffed pasta shells?

A typical serving size for stuffed pasta shells is 3-4 shells per person, which provides around 300-500 calories depending on the filling and sauce. Pairing them with a side salad or steamed vegetables can help balance the meal without increasing the calorie count significantly.

How do stuffed pasta shells compare to lasagna?

Stuffed pasta shells and lasagna are both popular Italian-style dishes, but they differ in structure and preparation. Stuffed shells are portioned individually and often easier to customize with different fillings, while lasagna uses stacked pasta sheets. Nutritionally, stuffed shells might have slightly fewer calories per serving due to a lighter pasta-to-filling ratio, but this depends on the recipe.

Data Sources & Scientific References