Beefaroni is a popular canned pasta dish that is loved by many. One can of Beefaroni (198 g) contains around 190 calories.

Apart from the calories, Beefaroni also contains other important nutrients like saturated fat, sodium, carbohydrates, protein, fiber, and sugar.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the nutritional value of Beefaroni and explore some tips on incorporating it into a healthy diet.

Calories

As mentioned earlier, one can (198 g) of Beefaroni contains around 190 calories. This may vary slightly depending on the brand you choose. While 190 may seem like a lot, it is important to keep in mind that this is just a part of your overall daily calorie intake. If you are watching your calorie intake, it is recommended to pair Beefaroni with a side salad or some fresh veggies to balance out your meal. It is also worth noting that the calorie count may differ if you are eating a larger or smaller portion size of Beefaroni.

Saturated Fat

One serving of Beefaroni contains around 3.5g of saturated fat, which is about 18% of your daily recommended intake. While this may seem high, it is important to keep in mind that saturated fats are not all bad. Some sources of saturated fat, like the ones found in nuts and seeds, can actually be beneficial for your overall health. However, it is still recommended to limit your intake of saturated fat and opt for healthier sources like olive oil or avocados.

Sodium

Beefaroni is known to be high in sodium, with one can containing around 950mg, which is almost half of your daily recommended intake. Excessive sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure and other health issues, so it is important to watch your sodium intake and pair your Beefaroni with low-sodium foods like fresh veggies or lean proteins. Some brands of Beefaroni may have lower sodium content, so make sure to read the labels carefully before purchasing.

Carbohydrates

One serving of Beefaroni contains around 29g of carbohydrates, which is about 10% of your daily recommended intake. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for your body, but it is important to choose complex carbohydrates like brown rice or whole wheat pasta over refined carbohydrates like white bread or sugary snacks. Pairing Beefaroni with some fresh veggies or a side salad can help increase the fiber and nutrient content of your meal.

Protein

One serving of Beefaroni contains around 7g of protein, which is important for muscle growth and repair. If you are looking to increase your protein intake, you can pair Beefaroni with some lean meats like chicken or turkey, or opt for plant-based protein sources like beans or tofu. Adding some veggies like broccoli or spinach to your Beefaroni dish can also help increase the protein content of your meal.

Fiber

One serving of Beefaroni contains around 3g of fiber, which is important for maintaining healthy digestion and promoting feelings of fullness. While the fiber content of Beefaroni may not be very high, you can boost the fiber content of your meal by pairing it with fresh veggies or a side salad. Opting for whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta can also help increase the fiber content of your Beefaroni dish.

Sugar

One serving of Beefaroni contains around 11g of sugar, which is added sugar. Excessive sugar intake can lead to a variety of health issues like weight gain, diabetes, and heart disease, so it is important to watch your sugar intake and opt for foods that are low in added sugars. Pairing your Beefaroni with some fresh fruit or berries can help satisfy your sweet tooth without adding too much sugar to your meal.

Ingredients

The main ingredients of Beefaroni include enriched macaroni (wheat flour, niacin, ferrous sulfate, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid), tomato puree (water, tomato paste), beef, high fructose corn syrup, water, and salt. While Beefaroni may not be the most nutritious meal option out there, it can still be part of a healthy and balanced diet if consumed in moderation and paired with fresh veggies and lean proteins.

Preparation

Preparing Beefaroni is quick and easy. Simply open the can, pour the contents into a microwave-safe dish, and heat for a few minutes until hot. If you prefer to prepare it on the stovetop, you can empty the contents of the can into a saucepan and heat over medium heat until hot. Make sure to stir occasionally and watch the heat to avoid burning or overcooking the pasta.

Serving Size

A serving size of Beefaroni is usually around 1 cup, which is roughly equivalent to half a can. If you are watching your calorie intake, it is important to measure out your portions carefully and pair your Beefaroni with healthy sides like fresh veggies or lean proteins. Opting for a smaller portion size and saving the rest for later can also help you stay within your daily calorie goals.