Calories In Homemade Spaghetti Sauce With Meat
Spaghetti is a classic Italian dish that is a favorite of many. It is a versatile dish that can be made in a variety of ways, with different sauces and toppings. One of the most popular spaghetti sauces is homemade spaghetti sauce with meat. This sauce is delicious and filling, but it is important to know how many calories are in it, especially if you are watching your weight.
What Is Homemade Spaghetti Sauce With Meat?
Homemade spaghetti sauce with meat is a tomato-based sauce that is made with ground beef or ground turkey. It is usually seasoned with garlic, onion, and Italian herbs such as basil and oregano. The sauce is cooked slowly to allow all the flavors to meld together, and it is typically served over cooked spaghetti noodles.
How Many Calories Are in Homemade Spaghetti Sauce With Meat?
The number of calories in homemade spaghetti sauce with meat can vary depending on the ingredients used and the serving size. On average, a serving of homemade spaghetti sauce with meat (one cup) contains approximately 250-300 calories. This includes the calories from the ground beef or turkey as well as the other ingredients in the sauce.
If you are watching your calorie intake, it is important to be mindful of your serving size. A typical serving of spaghetti is 2 ounces of dry pasta, which equals approximately 1 cup of cooked pasta. If you are serving your spaghetti sauce with meat over 2 cups of cooked pasta, your meal could contain over 600 calories.
How to Reduce the Calories in Homemade Spaghetti Sauce With Meat
If you are looking to reduce the calories in your homemade spaghetti sauce with meat, there are some simple changes you can make to the recipe. Here are some tips:
- Use lean ground beef or ground turkey instead of regular ground beef. Lean ground beef contains less fat and fewer calories than regular ground beef.
- Use less meat in your sauce. Instead of using 1 pound of meat, try using 1/2 pound or 3/4 pound. This will reduce the calories in your sauce.
- Use more vegetables in your sauce. Vegetables like onions, peppers, and mushrooms can add flavor and texture to your sauce without adding many calories.
- Use low-sodium tomato sauce and canned tomatoes. This will reduce the amount of sodium in your sauce, which is important for those with high blood pressure.
Conclusion
Homemade spaghetti sauce with meat is a delicious and filling meal, but it is important to be mindful of the number of calories it contains. By using lean ground beef or turkey, reducing the amount of meat in your sauce, and adding more vegetables, you can reduce the number of calories in your sauce without sacrificing flavor. Remember to watch your serving size and enjoy your homemade spaghetti sauce with meat in moderation!
