1 serving (85 grams) contains 134 calories, 7.2 grams of protein, 5.6 grams of fat, and 14.1 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
316 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 13.1 g | 16% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.5 g | 32% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 116 mg | 38% | |
| Sodium | 600 mg | 26% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 33.2 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g | 7% | |
| Sugars | 3.9 g | ||
| protein | 16.9 g | 33% | |
| Vitamin D | 24 mcg | 120% | |
| Calcium | 232 mg | 17% | |
| Iron | 3.4 mg | 18% | |
| Potassium | 476 mg | 10% | |
* 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 Stuffed pasta shells
Stuffed pasta shells are a popular Italian-inspired dish consisting of large pasta shells stuffed with a filling, typically made from ricotta cheese, spinach, and sometimes meat or other vegetables. Often topped with marinara sauce and baked, this dish brings together flavors and textures in a comforting, satisfying meal. Stuffed pasta shells are a good source of carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from the cheese, and various micronutrients from the fillings, depending on ingredients used. It provides essential nutrients, such as calcium from cheese, vitamin K from spinach, and lycopene from tomato sauce. Customizable fillings allow for a mix of flavors, making it suitable for various dietary needs while retaining its nutrient-dense profile.
Health Benefits
- Provides calcium from ricotta cheese, supporting bone health and nerve function.
- Rich in vitamin K from spinach, which aids in blood clotting and bone metabolism.
- Contains lycopene from tomato sauce, an antioxidant known for supporting heart health and reducing inflammation.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven, covered, to maintain moisture and texture, or freeze for longer storage.
Common Questions About Stuffed pasta shells Nutrition
Are stuffed pasta shells high in protein?
Stuffed pasta shells provide moderate protein depending on the filling; a typical serving with ricotta and spinach filling contains around 12-15 grams of protein per serving (3-4 shells). The addition of protein-rich ingredients like ground beef or chicken can further increase the protein content.
Can I eat stuffed pasta shells on a keto diet?
Stuffed pasta shells are generally not suitable for a keto diet, as the pasta itself is high in carbohydrates, with approximately 30-40 grams of carbs per serving. Keto-friendly versions may substitute regular pasta shells with low-carb alternatives such as zucchini slices or eggplant.
Are there any health concerns with eating stuffed pasta shells?
Stuffed pasta shells can be high in calories, saturated fat, and sodium, especially if made with cream-based sauces, heavy cheese, or processed meats. Opting for whole-grain pasta shells and vegetable-based fillings can make them a healthier option. Moderate portion sizes and homemade preparations can also help reduce excessive calorie and fat intake.
What is the recommended serving size for stuffed pasta shells?
A standard serving size for stuffed pasta shells is typically 3-4 shells, depending on their size and the type of filling. This amounts to roughly 300-500 calories depending on the ingredients used, making it suitable for dinner paired with a side of vegetables or salad.
How do stuffed pasta shells compare to other pasta dishes like lasagna?
Stuffed pasta shells are generally lighter than lasagna since they feature individual shells and can be portioned easily. While lasagna often includes multiple layers of pasta, cheese, and sauce, stuffed shells offer the advantage of being customizable with different fillings such as ricotta, spinach, or ground meats, making them easier to adapt to specific dietary preferences.
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.
- USDA FoodData - Stuffed pasta shells DataU.S. Department of AgricultureOfficial nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.
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.
