Spaghetti with meat sauce is a classic Italian dish loved by many. It is hearty, delicious, and satisfying.

However, if you are watching your calorie intake, you may be wondering just how many calories are in a large plate of spaghetti with meat sauce. Let’s take a closer look.

What is Spaghetti?

Spaghetti is a type of pasta made from wheat flour and water. It is long and thin, usually about 10 inches in length. Spaghetti can be served with a variety of sauces, including tomato-based sauces like meat sauce.

What is Meat Sauce?

Meat sauce, also known as Bolognese sauce, is a tomato-based sauce that usually contains ground beef or pork. It also typically includes onions, garlic, and various herbs and spices.

How Many Calories are in a Large Plate of Spaghetti with Meat Sauce?

The number of calories in a large plate of spaghetti with meat sauce can vary depending on the recipe and serving size. However, on average, one serving of spaghetti with meat sauce (about 1 cup) contains approximately 350-400 calories.

  • One cup (224g) of cooked spaghetti contains around 220-250 calories.
  • One cup (245g) of meat sauce contains around 150-200 calories.

Therefore, one large plate (around 2 cups) of spaghetti with meat sauce can contain anywhere from 700 to 800 calories or more.

Tips for Reducing the Calorie Count

If you are looking to reduce the calorie count in your plate of spaghetti with meat sauce, here are some tips:

  • Use whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta for added fiber.
  • Use lean ground beef or turkey instead of ground pork to reduce the fat content.
  • Add more vegetables to your sauce, such as diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini.
  • Limit your serving size to one cup or less.

The Bottom Line

While spaghetti with meat sauce can be a delicious and satisfying meal, it can also be high in calories. By being mindful of your serving size and making some simple substitutions, you can enjoy this classic dish without the guilt.