When it comes to quick and easy meal options, pasta sides are a popular choice for many busy individuals. One such option is the 1/2 cup as packaged (60 g) Pasta Sides - Cheesy Bacon Macaroni, which packs in 220 calories per serving.
But aside from its calorie count, what is the fat, carbohydrate and protein content in this meal option? Let's take a deeper dive into its nutritional information.
In this article, we'll also provide you with allergen information, preparation instructions, serving suggestions, storage instructions, and even some healthier alternatives to consider.
Calories and Serving Size
As mentioned earlier, the Cheesy Bacon Macaroni Pasta Sides pack in 220 calories per serving. This serving size comes in at 1/2 cup as packaged (60g).
Fat, Carbohydrates, and Protein Content
Of the 220 calories present in Cheesy Bacon Macaroni Pasta Sides, 36% come from fat, 55% from carbohydrates, and 9% from protein. The total fat content in a serving is 8g, of which 3g is saturated fat. Carbohydrate content is 30g, of which 3g is dietary fiber and 4g is sugar. The protein content is 5g.
Sodium and Cholesterol Count
Sodium content in a serving of Cheesy Bacon Macaroni Pasta Sides is 660mg, which accounts for 29% of your daily recommended intake. As for cholesterol, a serving contains 10mg which represents 3% of your daily recommended intake.
Vitamins and Minerals
Cheesy Bacon Macaroni Pasta Sides is a good source of calcium, with a serving providing 20% of your daily recommended intake. It also contains iron and potassium, with each serving containing 8% of your recommended daily intake of these minerals.
Ingredients in Cheesy Bacon Macaroni
The ingredients in Cheesy Bacon Macaroni Pasta Sides include: Enriched Pasta [Wheat Flour, Niacin, Iron, Thiamin Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Folic Acid], Cheese Sauce Mix (Whey Milk, Maltodextrin, Corn Syrup Solids, Palm Oil, Modified Food Starch, Milkfat, Salt, Bacon Bits [Cured with Water, Salt, Sugar, Smoke Flavoring, Sodium Phosphates, Sodium Erythorbate, Sodium Nitrite], Medium Chain Triglycerides, Natural Flavor, Sodium Citrate, Yeast Extract, Silicon Dioxide (Anticaking Agent), Calcium Phosphate, Lactic Acid, Citric Acid, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Enzyme Modified Cheese [Milk, Culture, Salt, Enzymes]).
Cheesy Bacon Macaroni Pasta Sides contains milk and wheat allergens, and may contain soy allergens.
Preparation Instructions
To prepare, bring 1-3/4 cups of water and 1 tbsp of margarine (optional) to a boil in a medium saucepan. Stir in pasta and return to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 11 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and let stand for 2 minutes before serving. Sauce will thicken upon standing.
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy Bacon Macaroni Pasta Sides is best enjoyed as a main dish or as a side dish for your favourite protein source, such as grilled chicken or fish. For added flavour, you can incorporate some fresh herbs or vegetables into the dish.
Storage Instructions
Store Cheesy Bacon Macaroni Pasta Sides in a cool, dry place until ready to use. Once opened, any unused product should be refrigerated in a separate, covered container and used within 2 days.
Healthier Alternatives
While Cheesy Bacon Macaroni Pasta Sides can be a quick and easy meal option, it's also important to keep in mind healthier alternatives. Consider swapping the pasta sides for whole grain pasta, and incorporate vegetables and lean proteins into the dish for added nutrition.
5 FAQ's About Pasta Sides - Cheesy Bacon Macaroni
1. What is the serving size for Pasta Sides - Cheesy Bacon Macaroni?
The serving size for this product is 1/2 cup, as packaged (60 g)
2. How many calories are in Pasta Sides - Cheesy Bacon Macaroni?
There are 220 calories in 1/2 cup, as packaged (60 g) of Pasta Sides - Cheesy Bacon Macaroni.
3. What are the main ingredients in Pasta Sides - Cheesy Bacon Macaroni?
The main ingredients in this product are enriched macaroni product (wheat flour, niacin, ferrous sulfate [iron], thiamin mononitrate [vitamin B1], riboflavin [vitamin B2], folic acid), cheese sauce mix (whey, cheddar cheese [milk, cheese culture, salt, enzymes], sunflower oil, whey protein concentrate, natural flavor, butter [cream, salt], salt, maltodextrin, sodium phosphate, citric acid, lactic acid).
4. How is Pasta Sides - Cheesy Bacon Macaroni prepared?
To prepare this product, boil 1-3/4 cups of water in a medium saucepan. Stir in pasta; return to a boil. Reduce heat to medium. Boil uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 11-12 minutes or until most of the water is gone. Stir in 2 tablespoons of margarine or butter (optional), 1/4 cup of milk, and cheese sauce mix; continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
5. Is Pasta Sides - Cheesy Bacon Macaroni a good source of nutrition?
While this product does contain some vitamins and minerals, it is not considered a good source of nutrition due its high amount of calories, fat, and sodium. It should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced and healthy diet.