Maggiano's Spaghetti And Meatballs Calories
Are you a fan of Italian cuisine? Then you have probably heard of Maggiano's Little Italy, a popular restaurant chain that specializes in traditional Italian dishes. One of their most famous dishes is spaghetti and meatballs, a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. However, if you are watching your weight or trying to stay healthy, you may be wondering how many calories are in Maggiano's spaghetti and meatballs. In this article, we will take a closer look at the nutritional information of this dish to help you make an informed decision.
The Ingredients of Maggiano's Spaghetti and Meatballs
Before we delve into the calorie count of Maggiano's spaghetti and meatballs, let's first take a look at the ingredients. This dish consists of spaghetti pasta, meatballs, marinara sauce, and Parmesan cheese. The spaghetti is made from durum wheat semolina and water, while the meatballs are made from ground beef, pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, and various spices. The marinara sauce is made from tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and basil, and the Parmesan cheese is sprinkled on top as a finishing touch.
The Calorie Count of Maggiano's Spaghetti and Meatballs
Now, let's get to the main question - how many calories are in Maggiano's spaghetti and meatballs? According to the nutritional information provided by Maggiano's, a serving size of spaghetti and meatballs (which is approximately 2 cups) contains 1,020 calories. This might seem like a lot, but keep in mind that this dish is quite filling and can easily serve two people. It also contains 55 grams of fat, 32 grams of saturated fat, 2,220 milligrams of sodium, 80 grams of carbohydrates, 9 grams of fiber, and 51 grams of protein.
While the calorie count may seem high, it is important to remember that this dish is a once-in-a-while treat rather than an everyday meal. If you are watching your weight or trying to eat healthily, you can still enjoy spaghetti and meatballs by making a few tweaks to the recipe. For example, you can use whole wheat spaghetti instead of regular pasta to increase the fiber content, or make your own marinara sauce using fresh tomatoes and herbs to reduce the sodium and sugar content.
Tips for Making Maggiano's Spaghetti and Meatballs Healthier
If you love spaghetti and meatballs but want to make it a bit healthier, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Use lean ground beef or turkey instead of a mix of beef and pork to reduce the fat content.
- Make your own meatballs using ground chicken or turkey and whole grain breadcrumbs for a healthier alternative.
- Use whole wheat spaghetti or zucchini noodles instead of regular pasta to increase the fiber content.
- Make your own marinara sauce using fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs to reduce the sodium and sugar content.
- Serve the dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a salad to increase the nutrient density of the meal.
Conclusion
Maggiano's spaghetti and meatballs is a delicious and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as an occasional treat. While it may be high in calories and fat, there are ways to make it healthier by making a few simple changes to the recipe. By using lean meat, whole grain pasta, and fresh ingredients, you can still enjoy this classic Italian dish without compromising your health goals.
