Macaroni Grill Spaghetti And Meatballs Calories
Macaroni Grill is a popular Italian restaurant chain in the United States, known for its delicious pasta dishes. One of the most popular dishes on the menu is spaghetti and meatballs. But have you ever wondered how many calories are in this classic dish?
What is Spaghetti and Meatballs?
Spaghetti and meatballs is a classic Italian-American dish that consists of spaghetti pasta, meatballs, and tomato sauce. The pasta is cooked until it's tender and then topped with meatballs and sauce.
Macaroni Grill Spaghetti and Meatballs Calories
Now, let's get to the important part - how many calories are in Macaroni Grill's spaghetti and meatballs? According to the restaurant's official nutrition information, a serving of spaghetti and meatballs (which is about 1.5 cups) contains:
- Calories: 1,220
- Total Fat: 64g
- Saturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 225mg
- Sodium: 2,900mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 96g
- Dietary Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 67g
As you can see, this is a very high-calorie and high-fat dish. It also contains a lot of sodium, which can be a concern for those watching their salt intake.
How to Make a Healthier Version of Spaghetti and Meatballs
If you're a fan of spaghetti and meatballs but want to enjoy a healthier version of the dish, there are a few things you can do:
- Use lean ground beef or turkey for the meatballs
- Bake the meatballs instead of frying them
- Use whole wheat pasta instead of regular spaghetti
- Make your own tomato sauce instead of using store-bought sauce (which can be high in sugar and sodium)
- Add more vegetables to the dish, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach
By making these simple changes, you can significantly reduce the calorie and fat content of the dish while still enjoying the flavors of spaghetti and meatballs.
Conclusion
Macaroni Grill's spaghetti and meatballs is a delicious dish, but it's also very high in calories and fat. If you're watching your weight or trying to eat healthier, it's best to enjoy this dish in moderation or make a healthier version at home. Either way, spaghetti and meatballs can still be a tasty and satisfying meal that you can enjoy with friends and family.
